Remembering 2020
It was a year that many walkers & hikers would like to forget with many restrictions & protocols in place. Social distancing, masks, hand sanitizer, gloves, parking nightmares were all part of the equation. What to do if you met a walker/hiker on a narrow trail ? Masks, Hand Sanitizer, gloves became a big part of your equipment in your daypack in 2020. Early morning walks or hikes were the new norm so you could get a parking spot. Walker and hikers at the end of the hike were encourage to avoid social talks at the parking lot so others could get your parking spot. Guided & social walks became smaller – in UK 6 or less and in Nova Scotia – 10 or less. Risk assessment became the new norm in UK with Leaders filing reports. And in lock downs in UK no group walks and one hour of exercise allowed in your local area.
On a plus side many people saw the value of walking & hiking during COVID-19 providing important physical and mental benefits. CBC News in British Columbia, Canada, recently published this news article – ” If you had one healthy habit for 2021, here is your best choice – Walking 30 minutes a day. Many reported that walks & hikes in nature keep them sane and grounded. Below is a video on why many walk 1000 miles in 2020 and the benefits it gave them.