Social Distance for POLE Hikers

Most people on the trail GET IT. They’re maintaining respectful distances. A few notable exceptions caused me to rethink my pole etiquette. I’ve been a pole etiquette EVANGELIST for some time now, making my intentions clear so we all have space on even narrow trails.

But yesterday’s runners, cyclists, large groups and parents have forced a proaction on my part. An optimally adjusted pole and an extended arm (angled slightly downward so it does not look like a weapon, but a friendly warning) creates a 6′ distance and alerts those who are not either paying attention or don’t care to please provide the social distance necessary to fight this pandemic. It’s either that or forego being outside.

We need to work together so we can all be safe.