NEW PALTZ – The Open Space Institute, in coordination with Wallkill Valley Farms and the Town of New Paltz, posted additional signage along Route 299 and at the River-to-Ridge Trail in New Paltz.
The signage was posted to clarify the designated parking areas for River-to-Ridge Trail users and reinforce guidelines for responsible recreation during this public health crisis.
OSI reinforced to users that the Wallkill Valley Farm’s parking lot is not a River-to-Ridge Trail parking area and should not be used by visitors looking to access the trail. The River-to-Ridge Trail’s designated trailhead and parking area is located at 41 Springtown Road and has a 45-vehicle capacity. If the parking area is full, visitors should return at another time or day.
“To mitigate the unintended, negative impacts on surrounding local businesses, OSI is reminding trail users to park in the River-to-Ridge Trail’s designated parking area in order to access the trail,” said OSI’s Peter Karis.
“In recent weeks, the need for people to find places of refuge has become increasingly evident, and the River-to-Ridge Trail is proving to be a welcome, local option. We are asking trail users to follow the posted guidelines and, as always, be respectful and considerate of others.”
As a reminder of public safety guidelines, OSI is working with the Town of New Paltz to post additional signage along the trail and on social media. For the health and safety of all visitors to River-to-Ridge, OSI and the town are urging everyone to adhere to the posted guidelines and the established recommendations from public health officials.
The newly posted signage emphasizes the following guidelines:
- When on the trail, wear masks, observe the recommended 6-foot social distance from others, avoid contact with any high-touch surfaces, and don’t gather at trail kiosks, gates, or parking areas.
- Park in the River-to-Ridge Trail’s designated parking area located at 41 Springtown Road. If the trail is busy or the parking area on Springtown Road is full, come back at a different day or time.
- All users must stay on the River-to-Ridge Trail at all times and respect trail neighbors and their property.
