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Elaine Paul Schaefer, executive director of the Schuylkill River Greenways, said the trails have proven to be a sure thing in the pandemic.
“It's one of the very few silver linings of this pandemic, has been that a whole new universe of people have really gotten out and discovered the benefits of trails,” she said.
Schaefer said trail use is up 200% on most trails and 300% on the far northern reaches of the Schuylkill River, in Schuylkill and Berks counties.
And she said that means everyone must be responsible by cleaning up their trash and using masks if the trail is congested.
If you want to avoid crowds, some times are better for hiking than others.
”Try to enjoy it before 10 a.m. and after 5 p.m., you’ll have a much more pleasant experience. We’ve also advised all of our users, if you pull up to a parking lot or a trailhead and it’s filled, turn around,” she said.
You can also check your online trail guide and find a new trail, and most trails have an app or a website that can help you find your way.
The Schuylkill River Greenways NHA team is sharing information on least crowded times on social media.
Trail users can also express their thanks and gratitude to those who maintain and take care of the trails here.