I am proud to share that The Outdoor Adventure Kind is a part of the national Recreate Responsibly Coalition. This active coalition -consisting of over 1,000 businesses, agencies, nonprofits, and influential voices – is here to help everyone experience the benefits of nature, which is at the heart of my mission here at The OAK.

This was originally started in Washington state near the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and came from a desire to see people enjoy the outdoors safely while staying healthy. This diverse community has become a collaborative effort, sharing common sense guidance about getting outside responsibly during the current public health crisis and beyond.

The Recreate Responsibly guidelines offer a starting point for getting out on your own adventures while keeping yourself healthy and maintaining access to our shared outdoor spaces. These tips are geared specifically towards outdoor adventures during the winter months, when conditions and access changes.

Recreate Responsibly Tip #1: Know Before You Go

Some areas can become dangerous with winter conditions. Research your destination, as roads and facilities may be closed in winter.

We have access to so many winter adventure opportunities in the PNW – some with snow, and some without. Always check to see if your intended location is open before heading out, as winter weather can close some which are usually open year-round. Check out these Portland-area Wonderful Winter Adventures for some ideas!

Recreate Responsibly Tip #2: Practice Physical Distancing

Be prepared to cover your nose and mouth. When possible, opt to eat and rest outside. If you feel sick, stay home.

If you’re wondering if you can use your neck gaiter as an effective face covering, well, there’s been some controversy around that. (They even nicknamed it Gaitergate!) The short answer is yes, but there are better options out there – some brands have re-designed their gaiters to incorporate filters, for example. Learn more here in this article from The Washington Post, and be prepared to cover your nose and mouth to keep yourself and others on the trail healthy.

Recreate Responsibly Tip #3: Plan Ahead

Check local conditions and prepare for the elements, packing extra layers, waterproof clothing, and avalanche safety gear for the backcountry.

Winter weather in the PNW can change quickly. It’s best to be prepared for wet and cold even if you are expecting a dry day. I’ve got tips on preparing and encouragement on why You Should Hike In The Rain! (It can apply to hiking in the snow, too!)

Recreate Responsibly Tip #4: Play It Safe

Know your limits and your gear. Slow down and choose lower-risk activities to reduce your risk of injury.

Sometimes, we get in over our heads on an outdoor adventure; in the winter particularly, this may mean emergency resources need to be dispatched. In addition to the usual outdoor dangers, it vastly increases risk of COVID-19 exposure when people are called to gather in an area for something like a rescue. It may also call resources away from others in need. By playing it safe, we can avoid tying up these services.

Recreate Responsibly Tip #5: Explore Locally

Consider exploring locally, as driving and parking may be more challenging in winter. If you travel, be mindful of your impact on Native and local communities.

Don’t forget to check out the green spaces practically in your own backyard! I recently discovered a trail super-close to home that had managed to fly under my radar for years. If you do head further away for your adventures, prepare as much as possible with a full tank of gas and maybe extra snacks so you can minimize stops in smaller communities.

Recreate Responsibly Tip #6: Leave No Trace

Did you know that the snow is our water supply? Keep our winter playgrounds clean. Pack out any human or pet waste. Be respectful of the land.

This is especially true in Portland, where some of our city’s water comes from uncovered, outdoor reservoirs; as we head into the warmer months and the snow level recedes, all that runoff eventually flows into our homes. Just one of MANY reasons we should always practice Leave No Trace principles!

Recreate Responsibly Tip #7: Build An Inclusive Outdoors

Everyone deserves to experience a winter wonderland. Be an active part of making the outdoors safe, accessible, and welcoming for all identities and abilities.

I firmly believe the outdoors are for everyone to enjoy, on adventures that suit their dreams and ambitions. And we can all support one another through our actions on and off the trail, encouraging participation, removing barriers, and treating each other respectfully. When we make the outdoors safer and more accessible for one of us, we do so for all of The Outdoor Adventure Kind.

Let’s Recreate Responsibly, Together