Mother’s Day is this Sunday and for many families, it’s a longstanding tradition to take mom to the park. In the new age of social distancing, large crowds wandering along trails is unsafe. Some park officials now have plans to minimize risk.
With over 80-acres, Hendricks Park is the oldest in Eugene. There are wooded walking paths and native gardens—and the big draw this time of year are the thousands of colorful rhododendrons in peak bloom.
Kelly Shadwick is with Eugene Parks and Open Spaces. She says they will mitigate over-crowding at Hendricks Park with one-way traffic controls and Park Ambassadors on the grounds. And, they’ll offer a virtual option.
“On Mother’s Day, Parks and Open Spaces is excited to announce we will be releasing a video tour of the park in bloom on Facebook,” Shadwick said. “And it will be a great way for those that are staying at home to share the space or share it with moms across the country.”

All parks and trails remain open for use during the coronavirus pandemic so Shadwick suggests choosing one close to home or visiting Hendricks Park on a day when it’s less crowded.
And bring mom, of course.
A virtual tour will be posted on Facebook on Mother's Day morning: