Are you planning a road trip to Colorado? With its stunning scenery, rugged mountains, and charming towns, it’s no wonder that Colorado is a popular destination for road trippers.
However, with the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, you may be wondering if it’s safe to travel to Colorado. Let’s take a closer look.
The Current Situation in Colorado
As of this writing, Colorado has seen over 400,000 cases of COVID-19 and over 5,500 deaths. However, the state has also been taking steps to mitigate the spread of the virus.
Most businesses are open with restrictions on capacity and mask mandates in place. Additionally, outdoor activities like hiking and skiing are still available for visitors.
What You Can Do to Stay Safe
While traveling during a pandemic can be daunting, there are steps you can take to help ensure your safety while on the road trip:
Wear a Mask: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends wearing masks in public settings. Be sure to pack enough masks for your trip and wear them whenever you’re around other people.
Practice Social Distancing: Avoid crowded areas and try to stay at least six feet away from others when possible.
Wash Your Hands Frequently: Bring hand sanitizer with you and use it often. You should also wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Avoid High-Risk Activities: While some activities like hiking are considered low-risk, others like indoor dining or attending large gatherings are considered high-risk. Try to stick to lower-risk activities during your trip.
What You Should Know Before You Go
Before hitting the road, there are a few things you should know:
- Check Local Guidelines: Different counties may have different restrictions in place. Check the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment website for the most up-to-date information.
- Be Prepared: Some businesses may have reduced hours or services due to COVID-19. Plan ahead and call ahead to check before visiting.
- Consider Alternative Accommodations: While hotels and motels are still available, you may want to consider alternative accommodations like camping or renting an RV to limit contact with others.
The Bottom Line
While there are risks associated with traveling during a pandemic, it’s possible to road trip safely to Colorado if you take the necessary precautions. Wear a mask, practice social distancing, wash your hands frequently, and avoid high-risk activities. By doing so, you can enjoy all that Colorado has to offer while keeping yourself and others safe.