Hikers spotted recently on a local trail. Photo by Jim Gourdoux

By KIRSTEN LASKEY
Los Alamos Daily Post
kirsten@ladailypost.com

With the public health order slowly rolling back, people are venturing outside their homes and into the great outdoors.

“We’ve definitely seen an increased use of the trails,” said Los Alamos County Open Space Specialist Eric Peterson.

While the County trails and open spaces are there for all to use; the public is reminded to be courteous so everyone can enjoy their time in nature.

Peterson said hikers, bikers and equestrians need to give each other space and follow guidelines for multi-use trails. He pointed out a good rule of thumb is the trail courtesy triangle.

Trail Courtesy Triangle:

• Bikers yield to hikers and equestrians; and
• Hikers yield to equestrians.

“We really just ask people to talk to one another and inform them of their presence,” Peterson said. “We just ask people to observe and be aware of their surrounding and use common courtesy.”

Another thing to keep in mind is parking. Peterson said parking has exceeded the capacity at some trailheads. If a parking lot at a trailhead is full, he recommends moving to a new area or trail.

He noted there is ample parking at the aquatic center, which is the location for many trailheads. Another good spot with an ample parking lot is the Quemazon Trail.

With the County implementing stage II fire restrictions, Peterson said people should be mindful of the restrictions when venturing on the trails and area campsites.

No campfires, fireworks, smoking or explosions are permitted. However, propane grills are permitted, he said.

New to hiking or recreating in the area?

Peterson said it is important to “be prepared, check the weather and know what you are getting into.”

He said people should know their limits; people may come from lower elevations and should be cautious about going on long, strenuous trails, added that having sun protection and plenty of water is important, too.

Not only have people been itching to get outside but they are eager to help keeps the trails in good condition, Peterson said.

While there are no organized group events, Peterson said he will coordinate with volunteers to do work on the trails as well as make sure the work is done safely.

Since the Youth Conservation Corps was canceled this year, community volunteers are welcomed, he said. The work can be as simple as bringing a pair of shears while hiking to clip back overgrown plants.

People also can serve as Peterson’s eyes and ears. If they spot something like a downed tree or erosion, they can report it to him.

“It helps out a lot when they report back,” he said.

All of the County’s trails are now open; it is a privilege to have so many trails available, Peterson said, especially with the current pandemic situation.

“We are grateful that we do have trails to get out on and enjoy and get away from what’s going on,” he said. “It really makes you appreciate the trail system during these times.”

If interested in volunteering, contact Peterson at eric.peterson@lacnm.us. If interested in accessing printable maps of local trails, click here.