BURLINGTON, Vt. (WCAX) – Watching the April 8 total eclipse from the top of a mountain or the backcountry may sound great, but experts have a warning for people looking to hit the trails to view the spectacular sight.
Chloe Miller from the Green Mountain Club says people need to be aware of the risks involved with hiking during late winter and mud season.
They say it could still be icy at high elevations, and hiking on muddy trails could cause erosion and damage the environment.
And with an expected influx of tens of thousands of visitors in the region, emergency resources could be strained if you run into trouble.
“We don’t really know what to expect and traffic might be really bad and emergency responders, emergency resources might be taxed. So if you’re out in the backcountry and you get lost or have a slip and a fall, there may not be the response that you would hope to expect,” Miller said.
They urge people to stay on durable surfaces like gravel and paved trails. Several state parks will also be open. Click here for more information.
Watch the video to see our Cat Viglienzoni’s full conversation with Chloe Miller.
Click here for all our eclipse coverage to help you get ready for the big day.