As we welcome visitors back to the mountains, we ask that you tread lightly—on the land and with the people who call this place home. The trails, rivers, and roads you travel have been through a lot, and so have the people serving your meals, preparing your vacation rentals, or guiding your adventures.
Many have lost homes, loved ones, or livelihoods. Some are still caring for family members, volunteering to rebuild, or trying to restart businesses. Though the mountains are open to you, they are also still healing.
Here are some ways you can tread lightly during your visit:
- Bring groceries with you: Reducing the strain on local supplies will make a difference.
- Leave a larger tip: A small gesture that can have a big impact on those who lost work during peak tourism weeks.
- Drop a note to your accommodation: A simple thank you for their hard work in reopening can go a long way.
- Be patient and kind: Whether it’s slower service or traffic delays, give a little extra grace as our community rebuilds.
- Support local businesses: Every purchase you make here helps strengthen the local economy.
- Respect the land: Stay on marked trails, pack out what you pack in, and avoid any areas still recovering from the storm.
We ask that you walk softly and tread with care. Our community is still mending, and your mindful presence can be a part of that healing.
Note: I am adding these words to all my itineraries for the next few weeks/months.