Monterey County parks reopening for trail use, walking, hiking
MONTEREY COUNTY, Calif. (KION) Monterey County-owned parks have been closed, but they are reopening for limited uses.
The county said it will allow local residents to use trails for walking, hiking, equestrian or biking as long as they follow social distancing protocols. Picnic grounds, campgrounds and playgrounds will stay closed. Parking areas will be opened, but most restrooms will be closed or emergencies only.
Regional parks in Monterey County have been open for trail use since the county's Shelter in Place order took effect.
The parks each have different availability:
- San Lorenzo: Closed for general use, but trails open along the Salinas River. Restrooms are closed to public.
- Lake San Antonio: South shore is open for trail use and fishing, but developed areas are closed. Emergency restrooms only available. There is a maximum of 50 boats with up to four people from the same household per boat from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday only. North shore is open for trail use and shoreline fishing, but developed areas are closed. Emergency restrooms only.
- Lake Nacimiento: Opens Friday for trail use and shoreline fishing. There is a maximum of 120 boats with up to four people from the same household. Developed ares are closed and there are emergency restrooms only.
- Toro: Open for trail use only and developed areas closed. Emergency restrooms only.
- Jacks Peak: Open for trail use only and developed areas closed. Emergency restrooms only.
- Royal Oaks: Open for trail use only and developed areas closed. Emergency restrooms only.
- Manzanita: Open for trail use only and developed areas closed. Emergency restrooms only.
- East Garrison: Open for trail use only and developed areas closed. Emergency restrooms only.
- Fort Ord Open Space: Open for trail use only. No restrooms.
The county asks park-goers to avoid gatherings in the parks or parking areas. It asks that you go to the park closest to where you live, and if you drive there, park in designated areas and not nearby neighborhoods.
