Charlottesville Chapter COVID-19 Group Hiking Protocol - Working Document

As Virginia's governor has started to lift pandemic restrictions, the PATC Charlottesville Chapter has worked to develop a draft protocol for future group hikes during the pandemic.  Below is a list of important points that the hike leaders have discussed.  The list below is subject to change as conditions and or knowledge changes, so refer back often. 

• Hike leaders should only lead hikes if they feel comfortable doing so.
• Hikes will always be subject to change in light of changing advice/requirements from Virginia's governor.
• Hikers should be reminded of social distancing requirements before every hike, along with other points listed below.
• The number of hikers will be limited (recommend 5 hikers, but no more than 10 - hike leader discretion-) until carpooling is allowed because of limited trailhead parking available. 
• Hikers meet at the trailhead, and will be told of the time and location of the meeting in emails only to attending hikers.
• Hikers drive their own vehicles to trailheads.
• All hikes will be in and out until carpooling is allowed. 
• Start hikes early to allow parking at the trailhead. 
• Plan group hikes based on the number of trailhead parking spaces available and likely trail conditions. Recommend limiting hikes to less popular locations with larger parking lots.  (E.g.:  Rt 56 AT Parking is a NO, but US. 60 AT Parking is a YES.)
• All hikers must have face masks with them - part of their "11 Essentials"!
• Hikes will not be advertised on Meetup at this time.  Although other Meetup groups have started advertising their hikes, it isn't fair to hikers who cannot participate.
• Preference in recruiting hike participants should go to (1) PATC members, (2) who are regular hikers with the group at this time, though, again, this is the hike leader's discretion.  
• Because hikes are severely limited in size, multiple club hikes should be allowed on a given day.
• Regular PATC protocol would be observed - everyone signs a release, hike leader has safety talk, etc., with safety talk including COVID related hazards as laid out after this list.
• Trail work hikes are strongly encouraged - many trails have seen little love during the pandemic and blowdowns/tree litter is likely.  Some hike leaders have expressed a preference to limit their outings to work trips for the short term - that is up to the hike leader's discretion but will be clearly communicated to potential participants in advance.
• Have a Plan B in mind, in case a hike leader finds a trailhead surprisingly crowded.
• Don't plan a social stop after the hike.  No need to overwhelm breweries or restaurants, even if they do have outdoor seating.  If possible, limit any group stops - gas, snacks etc. - during travel to/from trailheads.  Leaders can, however, encourage hikers to bring a lawn chair for socially distanced interaction after the hike.

Additional COVD-19 safety talking points to be sent to hikers in advance of a hike (adapted from gearjunkie.com):

• DON’T go out to public places (yes, even outdoor ones) if you’re feeling sick, are caring for others who are sick, or if you’re immunocompromised.
• DO bring all the gear, resources, food, and emergency supplies you will need (i.e., DON’T stop at stores or gas stations).
• DON’T be social: Don’t shake hands, high five, or get close to other hikers.
• DO be flexible: Consider alternate trails to separate you from crowds, and DON’T go during peak times.
• DON’T share gear, water, or food.
• DO bring a face mask
• Like wildlife, keep a safe distance and DO wash your hands often.