10 Summer Activities You Can Do While Social Distancing

The coronavirus pandemic has changed a lot about the way we live our lives, hasn't it? Many of us, faced with incredible risk, have had to cancel family vacations, postpone weddings, and put all sorts of favorite excursions on hold. Summer — well, it looks a little different in 2020.

But that's not to say all the fun is over! While major attractions will still be closed for the time being, there's still a lot you can do to enjoy these long summer days and create some memories. (Just keep those social distancing measures in place!)

1. Go for a hike (just keep your distance).

2. Have a drive-in movie night.

3. Host a backyard gathering (with a few close friends).

4. Play a low-contact sport like tennis or golf.

5. Visit your mountain cabin with one healthy family.

6. Go camping.

7. Take a dip in the lake.

8. Have a picnic with a friend or two.

9. Visit local monuments and outdoor historical sites for an easy staycation.

10. Host a casual sing-along with a few close buddies.

How to protect yourself and others while out and about

Remember: there's no such thing as a zero-risk outing these days. As businesses and public areas start to re-open bit by bit, it'll be up to you to decide how to best protect yourself, your loved ones and the people in your community safe.

Here's what Wyoming's state health officer, Dr. Alexia Harrist recommends:

1. Keep excursions to a minimum. Go out infrequently, but make the most of it when you do! In the end, the less you are in contact with groups of people outside your household the better.

2. When you're out, stay six feet apart (approximately the length of a pool noodle). That distance will help keep you from breathing the germs that could get you sick. Keep in mind: not everyone who is sick will show symptoms.

3. Wear a face covering when you are within six feet of other people outside your household. A mask does a lot to prevent transmission. Buy one that fits your face well and reflects your personal style.

4. Limit group sizes. A play date at the park in open air may be alright, but now's not the time for a big 4th-of-July barbecue with 30 people. This helps limit the number of people that will get sick, in case someone in the group does have the virus.

Best of luck out there! We sincerely hope this summer is one for the scrapbooks, mask and all.