With secondary measures in place to ensure that cities and towns are as safe as they can be in a world where social distancing is the norm, there's no denying that it often feels like our own personal worlds are becoming just a little bit smaller. It feels like there aren't many places to go that don't have restrictions and anywhere that is open, a person risks running into crowds or being stuck in close-quarters - which is less than safe and not ideal right now. So, what's a person to do when they need to get some fresh air?
For starters, stepping outside and enjoying the comfort of one's own backyard is always an option. Try sprucing it up for the winter or creating some type of DIY backyard oasis. But what if that's not even enough? The US is a pretty big place and while it seems like every inch of it has been explored, there are still local parks that don't see the crowds that other larger, national parks do. For these states, in particular, traveling an hour or more outside of a major city can yield promising rewards - all of the peace and quiet without hoards of people coming down every trail.
As always, practice six-feet social distancing, allow others to pass with plenty of room, bring a mask, and use your best judgment... If a place looks too crowded, chances are, it definitely is.
Palo Duro State Park In Texas
With more than 30 miles to explore, Palo Duro State Park offers quite an expansive range for hikers, bikers, and equestrian riders to take advantage of. The backdrop of the canyon is incredible on any given day and those who are lucky enough to take it in at sunrise or sunset will be rewarded with a sunset that looks to be painted against the sky. There's nothing like having the wind to your back and the open sky above you when hiking through the desert, and Palo Duro does not disappoint - plus, it's easy enough to put space between oneself and other park-goers.
Alvord Desert In Oregon
Another desert that's worth mentioning is the Alvord Desert in Oregon. While many think of evergreen trees, tall pines, and snowcapped mountains when thinking of this Pacific state, the Alvord Desert is quite a unique addition to that typical landscape. Unlike the desert environment that many people think of, the Alvord Desert sits at the base of Steens Mountain, belonging to a range that spans for 70 miles and extends 5,000 feet into the air. It's possible to explore a whopping 50 square miles in this desert but bring a jacket, because it tends to get chilly.
Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area In Arizona
The reason this park isn't as visited as others in the state of Arizona isn't due to the fact that its landscape isn't worth seeing - quite the opposite. With so many other state parks looming in the background of the Petrified Forest National Wilderness Area, this park just gets far less attention, and it's partially due to the fact that its terrain is a bit more rugged and less-traveled than the others. This also happens to be exactly why it should be on the list; the petrified wood that's scattered all around the park just makes things that much more interested as hikers traverse this otherworldly environment.
Ricker Pond State Park In Vermont
The Groton State Forest is fairly large and isn't the most visited park in the state of Vermont, which is saying a lot considering just how many natural wilderness areas actually exist in this state. Ricker Pond State Park happens to be in an area where parks are abundant, meaning if one is crowded, it's only a short drive or hike to the next. This park also offers other recreational activities besides hiking, making it versatile for those who prefer kayaking or canoeing over hiking or biking.
Humbug Spires Wilderness Area In Montana
Located just 26 miles to the south of Butte, the Humbug Spires Wilderness Area is quite the remote park to visit. With that being said, it offers a whopping 11,175 acres to explore, and the territory is completely roadless. This is also a very popular spot for mountain climbers so if that's more your thing, then this is where to go. Hiking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding are also permitted here.
Midewin National Tallgrass Prarie In Illinois
The most convenient aspect of this park is that it's only an hour's drive outside of Chicago, making it feel close without being overrun with people. With 12 well-traveled trails to choose from, this is a great way to get out for some fresh air, a leisurely stroll or hike, and experience part of the Midwestern prairie that exists just outside of a bustling city.