Get Out and HIKE!
The group on the Borrego trail
Panic!
Yes! Get out and hike! The COVID panic has utterly destroyed the tourist season here in Santa Fe. The panicky governor and hysterical mayor have shut-down all of the art festivals that make June, July and August in Santa Fe so enjoyable. Never mind that a virus can not survive in the sun and 80+ degrees temperatures. Not satisfied with destroying the art fairs they have closed all the wonderful shops. If you want to go to Home Depot or Lowes, fine. If you where interested in Indian art or the excellent Santa Fe shopping scene, forget about it. So what can you do? Get out and hike!
Are you in Danger?
Now it is true that the virus effects virtually no one under 50. If you are 60+ there is maybe a .5% of catching something. But don’t worry our hospitals have plenty of room! True they are laying off staff but on the .05% chance you need the hospital you will be welcomed with open arms!
The Santa Fe economy
The economy of Santa Fe is based on three main pillars. The art scene, tourism and state government. The government has deliberately destroyed the first two. So, what is a likely tourist supposed to do? Get out and hike!
Hiking trails are open!
There is one activity that the COVID dictators have not been able to crush. It is also one of the best parts about visiting Santa Fe. This activity is hiking the many trails around the city. They have closed the National parks like Bandelier and Tent Rocks but the hiking trails in the surrounding mountains are open.
Were can you hike?
A few days ago, I drove up Hyde Park Road towards the ski area. Cars filled the parking areas at the numerous trail heads along the road. I finally found a space at the Borrego trail head.
Free at last!
It was a beautiful day for hiking. The temperature up in the mountains was about 60. The sun was shining and creating incredible shadows through the trees. Everyone on the trail and in out of our Santa Fe Footprints group observed proper, if in my view unnecessary, distancing. The pure mountain air was invigorating and the exorcise got everyone’s blood pumping.
Don’t be a prisoner!
The lesson is don’t be a prisoner! The mountains and hiking trails of Santa Fe are waiting for you! GET OUT and HIKE !!!!