A "Soft" Re-opening Morning at Smith Rock
May 14, 2020
So far so good. No huge crowds as of noon on "Re-opening Day” at the park today and the mood was upbeat among both park employees and visitors alike. Those we encountered maintained a 6’ social distance, hesitant at first to approaching anyone in their path. When we donned a mask and pulled over to the side of a trail to let a family, also donning their masks, pass on the Rim Rock Trail, they were visibly nervous, yet grateful for our courtesy.
Image courtesy of “Summit Trail Amy”
Image courtesy of “Summit Trail Amy”
“So far, super quiet morning..... mostly solo or two people on the trails, one group of 8. Some wearing masks..... enjoying saying, “Welcome Back,” but apparently for some, first time ever here. Trails all looking good! Bitterroot at the top of Summit Trail should bloom in the next couple of days!”
Image courtesy of “Summit Trail Amy”
The geese sounded the alarm overhead as they noisily told others that the humans have come back, spreading the word to the raptor community as they soared overhead to check things out. They seemed unperturbed by the handful of climbers and hikers but nonetheless made their presence known. “Summit Trail Amy” was back in her element, doing the Summit Trail Loop as a park volunteer first thing in the morning.
Opening on a Thursday, with rain in the forecast, was definitely the way to ease into the dance we have before us—balancing access with safety to this special piece of nature.