At this time, New York State Parks like Walkway Over the Hudson are open for solitary outdoor recreation or a brief visit with a small group (like close family members). Everyone is urged to stay home as much as possible, however when in the park for a short nature break, please commit to following these important health and safety rules.

As of April 23, all visitors to Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park are asked to wear a face covering.

The Walkway is a unique destination among parks, and its linear nature can make following social distancing guidelines a challenge. Even if a patron is making every reasonable attempt to remain six feet apart, others may not be so careful. By wearing a face covering, guests protect both themselves and their fellow park users, and their responsible actions will help keep the Walkway open and accessible for all to enjoy at this time.

The mandate to wear face coverings follows the protocols set forth in New York State executive orders 202.17 and 202.18.

We’ve compiled important information about face coverings from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention below, including a video from the U.S. Surgeon General about how to create a simple face covering using a t-shirt and rubber bands.

According to the CDC, cloth face coverings should:

• fit snugly but comfortably against the side of the face;
• be secured with ties or ear loops;
• include multiple layers of fabric;
• allow for breathing without restriction;
• be able to be laundered and machine dried without damage or change to shape.

Should cloth face coverings be washed or otherwise cleaned regularly? How regularly?

Yes. They should be routinely washed depending on the frequency of use.

How does one safely sterilize/clean a cloth face covering?

A washing machine should suffice in properly washing a face covering.

How does one safely remove a used cloth face covering?

Individuals should be careful not to touch their eyes, nose, and mouth when removing their face covering and wash hands immediately after removing.