When traveling in the Gorge, support local communities.

Plan to arrive at the trailhead early (before 10 a.m.) to avoid congestion in parking lots and on trails.
Make plans to stop in a local Gorge community to eat, relax and explore.
Before you leave, research the operation hours of cultural and tribal museums and visitor centers, which tend to vary seasonally.
While COVID-19 poses a risk to you and others:
- Recreate locally as much as possible. Give communities time to recover before you travel outside your community or start taking overnight trips.
- If venturing outside of your community, check with the local chamber of commerce about travel restrictions.
- Respect any closures that remain in place.

Print or download a map of where you plan to go, as cell service may be unreliable.
Pack essentials to survive an unexpected night outdoors (find the list at ReadySetGorge.com).
Grab cash to pay recreation fees.
Plan to arrive early (before 10 a.m.) to avoid crowds.
Check the latest road and weather conditions before heading out.
Tell someone where you’re going and when you plan to be back.
While COVID-19 poses a risk to you and others:
- When traveling in cars and boats, travel with members of your own household only.
- Avoid gathering in groups greater than 10 or lingering in parking areas longer than needed.
- Be self-sufficient with all your supplies in case the communities you are visiting have shortages of supplies.
- Be prepared for many facilities such as bathrooms, playgrounds and picnic shelters to be closed.
- State health authorities recommend bringing soap, water, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper, as well as a mask or facial covering to shield your noses/mouth.
- If you are headed out on trails, bring outdoor essentials such as food, water bottles, illumination, a map, compass, sturdy shoes, and warm clothing layers to minimize the need for a rescue, as this can burden first responders and increase the chance of exposure to the virus for yourself and others.

First check with the local chamber of commerce about travel restrictions.

Support local communities by eating, drinking, shopping and staying local.
Research volunteer opportunities such as trail work parties, and sign up in advance.
Consider how and where you share information on social media and the actions your images may encourage others to do.
Explore cultural and tribal centers to learn more about history and people’s relationship to place.

Once you return home:

Consider volunteering with or making a donation to an organization that helped make your visit special (see the list below).

Some nonprofits in the Columbia River Gorge working to maintain parks and trails include: