Visiting Trails During COVID

KELT's preserves remain open and free to visit from dawn until dusk. If you are feeling cooped up inside, spending time outside will help to reduce stress and burn pent-up energy... all while providing space for social distancing.

Keep these tips in mind as you’re headed out on any outdoor adventure…

Take care of the land:

Where ya headed? To check if you’ll be on public or private land—and so you’re aware of any restrictions or fees—always research your destination ahead of time.
Stick to established trails & roads. When two paths diverge in the woods, you can still take the one less traveled. As long as it’s still a marked trail or road. Whether you’re hiking or biking, angling or ATVing, always stay on a designated trail.
Avoid peak hours. Plan around peak hours in the middle of the day to avoid crowds on the trails. And always have a Plan B in mind in case the parking lot is already full.
Avoid spreading invasive species. Invasive species like to hitchhike, so don’t transport firewood, and be sure to brush your boots and dry your boat before you head to your next adventure.
No litter bugs allowed. There are no garbage cans in the wilderness. So if you pack it in, you need to pack it out. That includes biodegradables like apple cores and banana peels. Be sure to bring bags for pet waste and pack that out, too!

Take care of you & Yours

Know your personal limits and always recreate within your ability
Pack essentials like food and water
Be weather wise and dress appropriately
Wear sunscreen, and protect your eyes from the sun and its reflection off water
Stay hydrated
Bring a basic first aid kit and make sure you know how to use it
Research your destination and comply with any policies in place
Travel with a friend
Cell service can be finicky so bring a physical, waterproof map and a compass and know how to use them
Wear a mask and maintain social distancing while on trails. Here’s a link to the Maine Office of Tourism’s COVID-19 travel protocols to help ensure a safe visit