GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Travel Wisconsin created an online “Trail Report” to help those heading out to plan their trip.
The pandemic has become a time when more people are turning to the outdoors during their free time. And those in the recreation business don’t see that changing any time soon.
“Outdoor sports, trail use, I mean people feeling much more comfortable right now outdoors and I think it’s going to continue for awhile,” said James Andersen with Green Bay Parks, Recreation, and Forestry Department.
Which is why Travel Wisconsin created this website for those looking to spend their time outdoors hiking or biking.
“The Wisconsin Trail Report lists the current conditions for hiking and biking networks from across the state. It includes the basic trail conditions and descriptions and links to additional resources,” said Anne Sayers, the Acting Secretary at Wisconsin Department of Tourism.
For example, the map shows that the Baird Creek trails are open and the condition is fair. That way Sayers tells FOX 11 when you actually show up there you know what to expect.
“We think this is going to be incredibly popular especially during these shoulder seasons April and November, when the trails can be muddy. Some people love that and some people don’t and this tool gives them a way to decide what kind of day they want to have and when they want to head out.”
The map features state and national trails, as well as ones managed by non-profits. Which well help expert hikers and bikers, as well as ones who may have just recently picked up these hobbies.
“The recent pandemic we just saw those outdoor numbers skyrocket, said Sayers. “Activity went through the roof and we we’re hearing from outdoorists that were looking for more tools.”
As for who updates the conditions, Sayers says that’s left up to people who physically head out to the trails and check them.
“They’re out there once a week before the weekend they’ll update it and then if there’s a major weather event which can change the trail conditions they’ll update it then too.”
The trail report will indicate when conditions were last updated. The trail report also includes things like total mileage and weather updates.
