Pa. parks, trails good for physical, mental health

A recent survey shows state residents are turning to the outdoors for healthy activity and solace during the pandemic.

Ask people to name something positive that has resulted from travel restrictions and lifestyle changes forced by the COVID-19 pandemic, and many will say a new or revived appreciation for the parks and trails in Pennsylvania.

Four out of five Pennsylvanians said the time they spent outdoors has been essential to their physical and mental health during these worrisome times, according to a poll conducted by the state Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.

“The poll results confirm what we have been seeing with our visitation numbers – that Pennsylvanians are turning to the outdoors for healthy activity and solace during the challenging times of the pandemic,” DCNR Secretary Cindy Adams Dunn said. “That interest in the outdoors also has a positive impact on our economy and small businesses, as people try new activities and purchase the related gear.”

Survey questions in a Lion Poll conducted by the Center for Survey Research at Penn State Harrisburg of 1,001 Pennsylvanians during fall 2020 indicate:

• Eighty-six percent of those who visited parks, trails or open spaces agree time spent in these areas has been essential to their mental and/or physical health during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• Seventy-five percent agree that funding outdoor recreation facilities, such as parks, trails, and open spaces, should be considered a top priority by state and local governments.

• Thirty-seven percent of respondents said their interest in learning new outdoor recreation hobbies/skills increased since the COVID-19 pandemic began. In addition, the survey found:

• About one out of five tried a new outdoor recreation activity.

• One out of five bought outdoor recreation equipment, gear or clothing. Forty-two percent spent $50-$249 dollars; almost 17 percent spent $250 to $499; 10 percent spent $500-$749, and about five percent spent $1,000 or more.

State park attendance increased from 37 million in 2019 to more than 46.9 million in 2020, a 26.6 percent increase.

The news has particular significance in this region traversed by the Schuylkill River Trail and networks centering on the Chester Valley Trail, Liberty Bell Trail and Perkiomen Trail.

(The Schuylkill River Trail is currently in the running as a nominee for the 2021 USA Today Readers’ Choice Award for Best Riverwalk. Trail lovers have four weeks to vote at bit. ly/ Vote For Schuylkill River Trail .)

“The Schuylkill River Trail is truly a regional and national treasure. The trail highlights the historic Schuylkill River, the spine of the National Heritage Area,” said Schuylkill River Greenways NHA Executive Director Elaine Paul Schaefer.

More than 75 miles of the trail is spread across five counties. And it bears noting that the popular section from Pottstown to Reading is about to become safer for walkers, runners and bicyclists as construction begins today for a pedestrian/bike bridge over Route 724 between Shed Road and East Main Street in Union Township. The current trail crossing is dangerous for both motorists and trail users because of steep access and poor visibility.

The $1.15 million pedestrian bridge will be erected over Route 724 at a height of 17 feet to eliminate the steep descent and ascent trail users currently navigate as the trail crosses the roadway.

Peggy Whittaker of Lower Pottsgrove Township donated an undisclosed amount to help fund the project in honor of her late husband, Dr. Richard P. Whittaker, an avid bicyclist and trail user.

The Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources awarded $516,501 for the project. The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission provided $325,636.

This region is fortunate to be home to trails and parks that provide safe outlets for exercise, promoting both physical and mental health. While exercising outdoors is recommended to prevent virus spread, trail and park users are reminded that precautions are necessary.

• Don’t hike or recreate in groups – go with those under the same roof, and adhere to social distancing (stay 6 feet apart).

• Avoid crowded parking lots and trailheads.

• Keep a face mask with you and wear it if you are encountering other people on a trail.

• Bring a bag and either carry out your trash or dispose of it properly.

Spring is not far off, bringing with it ideal conditions for enjoying the outdoor recreation this region has to offer. Be prepared, and be safe.