Switching (off) the fear factor on Peavine Trails

Currently, you will find more COVID-19 recommendation posts than rattlesnake warning signs along the Peavine Trails—a networks of hiking & mountain biking loops and trails northwest of Reno, Nevada. The recommendations have been posted to remember trail users how to manage avoiding the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, a coronavirus that can cause the respiratory disease COVID-19.

Even outdoors in open space, social distancing is key. To minimize the chance that hikers, joggers and cyclist may run into each other, the temporary directional trail recommendations are set up such that many of the single-track trails are suggestively turned into one-way paths. “Direction Suggested” and  “Direction Not Suggested” signs have been posted. Either type asks people to remember the following:

Announce Yourself Early to Others

“Be Nice - Say Hi” and Smile when Passing

Move at Least 6 ft off Trail when Passing

Avoid Congregating at Intersections.

It works. There is nothing to fear and lots to enjoy. The value of a recreational trail network next to urban neighborhoods is priceless—anytime.

The posted signs you temporarily will see at many trail junctions and intersections:

COVID19 temporary trail recommendation: Suggested Direction

COVID19 temporary trail recommendation: Direction Not Suggested