Author: Kate Hamilton

  • Great Divide Trail Mural Unveiled in Coleman 

    Great Divide Trail Mural Unveiled in Coleman 

    On June 14, 2026, we unveiled the stunning Great Divide Trail mural, created by artist Lynnie Wonfor in Coleman, Alberta, during our inaugural Trail Days Celebration. 

    This project, led by GDTA volunteer Tara Fleming, was a year and a half in the making. It all began with a simple question from Alyssa and Seb, owners of Kindred Ground Coffee and Yoga House: “Would the GDT like to put a mural on our building?” The answer was an emphatic yes

    Soon after, the process began: obtaining permits from the municipality, securing funding through South Canadian Rockies Tourism, and searching for the perfect artist and concept to bring the mural to life. We received many incredible submissions, but one stood above the rest; one that truly captured the essence of the Great Divide Trail: Lynnie Wonfor’s depiction of Tornado Mountain. 

    Having hiked the Great Divide Trail herself, Lynnie has an intimate understanding of what it feels like to be out on the trail and of both the challenge and reward of crossing Tornado Mountain.

    Artist’s Statement 

    “Tornado Mountain, one of the icons of the Great Divide Trail, is the perfect example of how the trail can gift us an accomplishment that proves something to ourselves and lasts a lifetime. The longer you hike it—and even long after the hike is over—the more it continues to give. The GDT changed my life forever.” 

    -Lynnie Wonfor 

    We couldn’t be happier with the final piece. 

    While Tornado Mountain may not be as well known locally as Crowsnest Mountain, it holds a special place in the history and identity of the Great Divide Trail. In fact, it is the mountain featured in the GDT logo, making it a fitting subject for this mural. 

    There are many people to thank for helping make this project a reality. To artist Lynnie Wonfor, thank you for creating this spectacular piece. To South Canadian Rockies Tourism, thank you for helping fund the project. To Seb and Alyssa at Kindred Ground Coffee and Yoga House, thank you for providing the canvas, obtaining permits, and preparing the building for installation. And finally, thank you to GDTA volunteer Tara Fleming for taking the lead and guiding this project from concept to completion. 

    We are thrilled to share this mural with the community and with all who walk the Great Divide Trail. 

  • The Blaeberry Cable Car Is Open!

    The Blaeberry Cable Car Is Open!

    After five years of planning, collaboration, fundraising, and an incredible amount of volunteer effort, we are more than excited to announce that the Blaeberry Cable Car is complete and officially open for hiker use, just in time for the 2026 Great Divide Trail hiking season.

    Located in the middle of Section D of the Great Divide Trail, the new cable car provides a safe and reliable crossing of the Blaeberry River, replacing the temporary log bridge that had served hikers in recent years. What began as a proposal for a permanent aluminum bridge evolved into the Great Divide Trail’s first cable car aerial ferry, creating a unique and memorable experience while dramatically improving safety. The new cable car also enables a major enhancement to the hiker experience in the Blaeberry Valley, by eventually allowing the Collie Creek Alternate to become the official route of the GDT, replacing a tedious 14-km road walk with a scenic forested footpath that’s now usable by all hikers.

    The first official Great Divide Trail hiker to use the new crossing was Mark Donald, who rode the cable car on Tuesday, July 7, 2026, making for an exciting moment!

    Projects like this are never accomplished by one organization alone, and this one is no exception.

    First and foremost, we extend thanks to Recreation Sites & Trails BC for working alongside the GDTA, helping solve challenges, navigate approvals, and ultimately bring this ambitious vision to life.

    We also thank BC Parks for donating the cable car towers and cart. This contribution made the project possible and provided the foundation for what has become one of the most unique pieces of backcountry infrastructure on the Great Divide Trail.

    A very special thank you goes to Brendan Harvey of Upslope Millwright & Rigging. Brendan’s expertise, ingenuity, and countless hours of work were absolutely essential to the successful completion of the cable car. Without his knowledge, skills, and commitment, this project could not have been completed.

    We are also incredibly grateful to the Columbia Basin Trust for believing in this project from the beginning. Their financial support, and their willingness to stay with us as the project evolved over several years, helped carry this vision through to completion.

    This project was also made possible through the generosity of our supporters. Thank you to every individual who contributed, whether through direct donations or by supporting our Trail Supporter campaign with the Blaeberry Crossing in mind. Every contribution helped move this project forward.

    We would like to recognize one remarkable act of generosity. An anonymous donor stepped forward with an extraordinary $60,000 donation, providing the final funding needed to bring the project across the finish line. We are profoundly grateful for this incredible gift and the confidence it demonstrates in the future of the Great Divide Trail.

    Last but certainly not least, we extend our deepest appreciation to the many GDTA volunteers who made this project possible. In particular, we want to recognize our trip leaders Dave Higgins and Stuart Mitchell, who dedicated an incredible amount of time, energy, skill, and effort, not to mention years, to bringing this project to life. From planning and organizing work trips to hauling materials, solving challenges in the field, and putting in countless hours of hard work in a remote and demanding environment, their commitment was truly extraordinary. This project is a reflection of the passion and dedication of our volunteer community, and we cannot thank them enough for everything they have contributed.

    The completion of the Blaeberry Cable Car is much more than the installation of a new river crossing. It is a testament to what can be achieved when government agencies, community partners, skilled professionals, volunteers, donors, and trail supporters work together toward a common goal.

    To everyone who contributed your time, expertise, funding, equipment, or encouragement over the past four years, thank you. 

    We look forward to welcoming hikers to experience the Blaeberry Cable Car throughout the 2026 hiking season and for many years to come.

    Happy hiking!

  • Success of the Servus  Calgary Marathon Green Bib Program 

    Success of the Servus Calgary Marathon Green Bib Program 

    A second year of success at the Servus Calgary Marathon

    The Green Bib Program once again saw strong support in 2026, with 614 participants choosing the sustainable race option. Their participation resulted in a $6,140 donation to the Great Divide Trail Association (GDTA). 

    Introduced in 2025, the Green Bib Program gives runners the option to forgo a race shirt and finisher medal while still receiving a chipped race bib and enjoying the full race-day experience. For every Green Bib selected, the Servus Calgary Marathon donates $10 to the GDTA. 

    The Green Bib Program is part of the Servus Calgary Marathon’s broader Sustainability Program, sponsored by the wonderful team at Fluid Projects. The program includes compostable cups at aid stations, recycling and composting initiatives, food and clothing donations, paperless race communications, transit and cycling incentives, water refill stations, and ongoing efforts to reduce excess race merchandise. Since 2017, the event has reduced leftover shirts and medals by more than 75%. 

    Together, these initiatives help make the Servus Calgary Marathon a more environmentally responsible event while giving participants meaningful ways to reduce their race-day footprint. 

    We at the Great Divide Trail Association are incredibly grateful to the Servus Calgary Marathon for choosing our charity as the recipient of the Green Bib donation. This partnership not only supports the protection and maintenance of Canada’s premier long-distance hiking trail, but also demonstrates how the running and outdoor communities can work together to create a positive impact. 

  • Support Local During Trail Days & Win!

    Support Local During Trail Days & Win!

    Support local businesses during Trail Days by filling up your stamp card for a chance to win local gift cards while discovering the unique businesses that make the Crowsnest Pass special.

    How it works:

    • Pick up a stamp card at the Orpheum Theatre on Friday evening or at the Trail Days Market on Saturday.
    • Visit participating businesses throughout the weekend.
    • Receive one stamp for every $25 spent at participating businesses.
    • Collect as many stamps as you can.
    • On June 14th, drop off your stamp card at Ophelia Outpost between 1:00 – 3:00pm with Great Divide Trail Volunteers, or email a photo to desiree.erdmann@greatdividetrail.com to be entered into the draw. Winner’s will be drawn at 6:00pm on Sunday.

    Prizes: Over $1,000 in gift cards are up for grabs, thanks to the amazing Crowsnest Pass businesses!

    • Two Grand Prizes will be awarded to the participants who collect the most stamps.
    • Two Additional Prizes will be drawn at random from all submitted stamp cards.

    The AMAZING participating businesses

    A&B Liquor | Ace Hardware | Art Gallery | Berta | Blairmore Liquor | Charley Biggs | Cherry on Top | Chris’s | Cinnamon Bear |Crowsnest Candy | Golf Course | Greg’s Liquor | Guilded Haus | Hello Pizza | IGA | Kind Rat | Kindred Ground | Merch on Main |Ophelia Outpost | Orpheum Theatre | Pass Beer | Paws, Claws & Hooves | Pharmasave | Rebel BBQ | Rum Runner | Spry | Stone’s Throw | Summit Home Hardware | Switchback Sips | Tuesdays Bookshop | Work and Play

    Shop local. Support local. Celebrate Trail Days!

  • Trail Days Schedule of Events

    Trail Days Schedule of Events

    Ticket and wristband pick-up will be available starting at 6:00 PM at the Orpheum Theatre on Friday evening, and from 10:00 AM–4:00 PM on Saturday at the Great Divide Trail booth in Gazebo Park. 

    If you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, get them here!

    Friday, June 12

    Orpheum Theatre, Blairmore 

    6:00 PM – 7:30 PM – Ticket and wristband pick-up 

    7:00 PM – Mayor’s Welcome 

    7:30 PM – 9:30 PMKinjo Brothers 
    A Calgary-based family band blending soul, roots, reggae, and R&B with  globally inspired sounds and energetic live performances. 

    Saturday, June 13

    9:00 AM – 10:30 AM – Morning Walk Meet-Up: Alison Falls Loop (2 km) 

    This is not a guided hike. 

    Meet at the Atlas Staging Area (by the kiosk sign) for a casual group walk  along the newly built Alberta Hiking Association Trail to Alison Falls. From  the falls, the route follows the creek before connecting with the Great Divide  Trail and returning to the Atlas Staging Area. 

    This is a moderate 2 km loop that is a great opportunity to meet fellow hikers,  stretch your legs, and explore some of the area’s newest trail  infrastructure.  

    Gazebo Park, Blairmore 

    10:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Trail Days Market 
    Local vendors, community groups, trail organizations, and outdoor  exhibitors. Ticket and wristband pick-up at the Great Divide Trail Booth. 

    11:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Bear Hang Demo 
    Learn practical backcountry food storage techniques while having a great  time! 

    12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Animal Tracks Workshop with The Path Less Take
    An interactive wildlife tracking experience for all ages. Put your animal  tracking abilities and investigative skills to the test in this interactive  “Whodunit” adventure designed for all ages! Learn how to identify animal  tracks and uncover clues from the natural world as you work together to  solve an exciting “Conservation Caper.” Follow the evidence, crack the  mystery, and discover the fascinating stories wildlife leaves behind! 

    12:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Live Music with Tynan Groves 
    Tynan Groves is an eclectic mix of many genres, he seamlessly moves his  music from folk to metal, jazz to rap, punk to classical. His diverse repertoire  comes from his study of jazz and a career spent freelancing in many different  musical situations. Currently residing in the Crowsnest Pass Tynan relishes  in the humour and joy of playing such a varied range of music. 

    1:30 PM – 2:30 PM: Head in the Clouds with The Path Less Taken 
    Need a moment to recharge, reset, and reconnect? Step away from the rush  of everyday life and immerse yourself in a refreshing Mindful Nature  Moment experience. Slow down, breathe deeply, and discover the beauty of  the natural world around you.  Spend time with your “head in the clouds” as  you mindfully gaze skyward, embark on a  colourful scavenger hunt, and  learn the creative art of Zentangling with Aspens. Through playful and  calming activities, you’ll experience a unique and inspiring way to connect  with your local landscape and leave feeling renewed, grounded, and  energized. 

    10:00 AM – 4:00 PM: Knot Tying & Trail Survival 
    Visit Crowsnest Adventures at their table for this experiential learning  opportunity focused on practical outdoor and trail survival skills. 

    3:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Intro to Dehydrating 101 
    Tips and techniques for preparing dehydrated trail meals. 

    Crowsnest Community Hall Elks Hall, Blairmore – 2025 129 St, Blairmore, AB T0K 0E0

    12:00 PM – 5:00 PMPlanetarium Experience with Dark Sky Guide
    Step inside an immersive dome theatre and explore the night sky through  engaging storytelling and 360° visuals. Sign up for your timeslot at the Great  Divide Trail Booth at Gazebo Park on Saturday 10-4pm 

    SIGN UP FOR YOUR PLANETARIUM EXPERIENCE HERE

    Aurora: Lights of Wonder 
    Duration: 29 minutes 
    The Aurora Borealis is an atmospheric phenomenon that has dazzled and  inspired humans for millennia. Dive into this 360-degree cinematic  experience and explore the stories, science, and secrets behind the dance of  the Northern Lights. In this multi award-winning film you will learn what  ancient civilizations believed about the Northern Lights, see the Northern  Lights from the International Space Station, hear how scientists of the past  and present have explained this spectacular phenomenon, and discover the  secret behind the vibrant auroral colors. Thanks to the pioneering work of  astrophotographer, Kwon O Chul, you can now experience firsthand the  incredible dance of the Auroral ribbons of green and purple as never before. 

    Orpheum Theatre, Blairmore 

    5:00 PM – 6:00 PM: How Recreational Trails Affect Plant Communities 
    Speaker: Heather Davis 

    Increases in visitation to protected areas coupled with natural disturbances  make it challenging to meet both goals of conserving biodiversity and  inspiring connection with the natural world. Researcher, Heather Davis,  uncovers how recreational trails shift plant communities based on trail use  levels, vegetation type, wildfire, and the interactions between them. Learn  more about this research, see amazing pictures of Waterton Lakes National  Park, and find out how you can be a more mindful explorer. 

    6:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Nibbles & Mingle 

    6:30 PM – 8:00 PM: Great Divide Trail Legacy Panel 
    Celebrating 50 Years of Wild with GDTA founders and legacy members Dave  Higgins, Jeff Gruttz, Jenny Feick, Wayne Marshall, and Dan Wallace. 

    8:00 PM – 10:00 PMSid Marty & Wailback 
    Live music and storytelling inspired by the Rocky Mountains and Western  Canada. 

    Sunday, June 14

    Crowsnest Museum, Coleman 

    9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: Pancake Breakfast 

    Join us outside the Crowsnest Museum for a delicious breakfast cooked by  Chris’s Restaurant and sponsored in part by Onemore and Sinister Sports. 

    Kindred Ground, Coleman 

    11:00 AM – 11:30 AM: Great Divide Trail Mural Reveal 

    This project has been a long time in the works, and we are thrilled to reveal  the new Great Divide Trail mural on the side of Kindred Ground –  location of the Crowsnest GDT Hiker Hang Tags. 

    Crowsnest Museum, Coleman 

    12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Miners Path Walking Tour 

    Enjoy a leisurely 1.6km walk through the forest guided by an educator from  the Crowsnest Museum. Learn about the nature of the Crowsnest Pass and  the lives of the miners who once used the same trail.   

    Start and End Point: Crowsnest Museum Entrance  

    What to bring: The trail is considered easy but may be muddy after rainfall.  Sturdy walking shoes are recommended. The trail has stairs in sections,  making it unsuitable for mobility devices or strollers. 

    Ophelia Outpost, Bellevue 

    1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Great Divide Trail Meet-Up & Q&A 

    Connect with past, present, and future GDT hikers to share stories, ask  questions, and talk about trail planning. 

    GET TICKETS HERE

    Support Local During Trail Days & Win!

    Support local businesses during Trail Days by filling up your stamp card for a chance to win local gift cards while discovering the unique businesses that make the Crowsnest Pass special.

    How it works:

    • Pick up a stamp card at the Orpheum Theatre on Friday evening or at the Trail Days Market on Saturday.
    • Visit participating businesses throughout the weekend.
    • Receive one stamp for every $25 spent at participating businesses.
    • Collect as many stamps as you can.
    • On June 14th, drop off your stamp card at Ophelia Outpost between 1:00 – 3:00pm, or email a photo to desiree.erdmann@greatdividetrail.com to be entered into the draw. Winner’s will be drawn at 6:00pm on Sunday.

    Prizes: Over $1,000 in gift cards are up for grabs, thanks to the amazing Crowsnest Pass businesses!

    • Two Grand Prizes will be awarded to the participants who collect the most stamps.
    • Two Additional Prizes will be drawn at random from all submitted stamp cards.

    The AMAZING participating businesses

    A&B Liquor | Ace hardware | Art Gallery | Berta | Blairmore Liquor | Charley Biggs | Cherry on Top | Chris’s | Cinnamon Bear |Crowsnest Candy | Golf Course | Greg’s Liquor | Guilded Haus | Hello Pizza | IGA | Kind Rat | Kindred Ground | Merch on Main |Ophelia Outpost | Orpheum Theatre | Pass Beer | Paws, Claws & Hooves | Pharmasave | Rebel BBQ | Rum Runner | Spry | Stone’s Throw | Summit Home Hardware | Switchback Sips | Tuesdays Bookshop | Work and Play

    Shop local. Support local. Celebrate Trail Days!

    Thank you to our lead sponsor, Travel Alberta for making this event possible.

  • The Hang Tags Are Back in Town!

    The Hang Tags Are Back in Town!

    Are you planning to hike the Great Divide Trail in 2026? Whether you’re tackling the full length of the trail or just a section, we encourage you to register your hike and pick up a free GDT Hang Tag; your badge of stewardship and a symbol of your commitment to protecting the Great Divide Trail.

    The Hang Tag Program is back for another season, and we’re excited to continue growing the program in 2026 with four pickup locations across the trail corridor.

    This voluntary registration is open to anyone planning to spend one or more nights on the GDT in 2026.

    How to Register

    1. Visit one of the participating locations listed below.
    2. Let the staff know you’re there to pick up your GDT Hang Tag.
    3. Scan the QR code they provide to complete your registration.
    4. Show the staff your completed registration.
    5. Walk away happily with your new Hang Tag!

    What You’ll Receive

    Hikers who register for 2026 are eligible to receive a free GDT Hang Tag.

    These tags are:

    • A memento of your adventure on the Great Divide Trail
    • A visible sign of your pledge to practice Leave No Trace and care for the trail
    • Available while supplies last — once they’re gone, they’re gone!

    Note: This registration is not a permit and does not replace permits required in national or provincial parks along the GDT. Be sure to research and obtain all necessary permits for your hike.

    Hang Tag Pickup Locations

    Hang Tags must be picked up in person at one of the following locations during business hours. Shipping of Hang Tags is not available.

    Tamarack Outdoors

    214 Mount View Road, Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta
    Visit their website for hours of operation

    Kindred Ground – Movement & Coffee House

    7702 18 Avenue, Coleman, Alberta
    Visit their website for hours of operation

    Friends of Yoho Gift Shop

    5764 Trans-Canada Hwy, Field, BC

    The Friends of Yoho Gift Shop is located inside the Yoho National Park Visitor Centre in Field, BC, and now offers a resupply service for GDT hikers for a $20 service fee per box.

    Friends of Jasper National Park Gift Shop

    500 Connaught Drive, Jasper, Alberta
    Visit their website for hours of operation

    Friends of Jasper National Park Gift Shop also offers GDTA members a 10% discount in-store with proof of GDTA membership.

    Quantities are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Once locations run out, that’s it for the season.

    Why Do We Ask You to Register?

    Your registration helps us better understand how many people are hiking the GDT, and where. This information is incredibly valuable:

    • It helps us advocate for the trail with land managers and government agencies.
    • It supports funding opportunities by showing how popular and meaningful the GDT is to users.
    • It helps us plan trail maintenance, focusing efforts on the most-used and most-loved areas.

    By registering, you’re helping to protect the GDT’s future – thank you!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Q: Do I have to pick up my Hang Tag in person?

    A: Yes. Hang Tags are only available for pickup in person at our partner locations. Shipping of Hang Tags is not available.

    Q: Can I get a Hang Tag for a previous year’s hike?

    A: No. Hang Tags are only available to hikers registered for the current hiking season (2026).

    Q: Is registration required to hike the GDT?

    A: No. Registration is completely voluntary but strongly encouraged to support trail stewardship and planning.

    Q: Do I still need permits?

    A: Yes. Registration does not replace permits. Be sure to secure all required camping permits for areas such as national and provincial parks along your route. Visit our Permits Page for more information.

    The GDT hang tags shown on grass

  • Calgary Film Festival Raises $7,820

    Calgary Film Festival Raises $7,820

    What an incredible evening! The Great Divide Trail Film Festival in Calgary brought together more than 150 attendees for a night of adventure, storytelling, inspiration, and connection and, thanks to the support of our community, the event raised an amazing $7,820 in support of the Great Divide Trail Association. 

    We were honoured to have Mayor, Jeromy Farkas at the event, where he welcomed the crowd and spoke about the importance of the work that organizations like the GDTA do. His message focused on the power of community, stewardship, and the incredible people behind organizations that work to protect and connect people to the outdoors. It was an important reminder that, at the heart of it all, it is really about the people. 

    We would also like to extend a huge thank you to our emcees, Meaghan Underhill and Nathan Reitsema, who brought incredible energy, humour, and enthusiasm to the evening. Their passion for the outdoors and ability to keep the event flowing made the night even more memorable. 

    The festival showcased an outstanding lineup of films created by hikers, adventurers, and outdoor storytellers, each offering a unique perspective on life on the trail. A huge congratulations and thank you goes out to all of the filmmakers for creating such an unforgettable viewing experience for everyone in attendance. 

    A special shoutout goes to the audience favourite and Viewers’ Choice winner, Keiko Climaco, for her film Ups & Downs. The film clearly resonated with viewers and was a deserving winner of the evening. 

    We were also thrilled to welcome special guest speakers Greg Gerla and Greg Fulmes from Insight Creative Workshops. Their presentation was engaging, practical, and inspiring, giving attendees valuable tools and tips to improve smartphone photography and filmmaking skills. Their energy and expertise added an incredible dimension to the event. 

    Another highlight of the evening was having Latitude 55 Distillery onsite, offering samples of their Kakwa Rum. It was a fantastic addition to the atmosphere and a great way to celebrate the spirit of adventure and community that surrounds the trail world. 

    A huge thank you go to our lead sponsor, Durston, for their strong support in helping make the event possible. We are so grateful and honored to be on the same team as you. 

    We are also thankful to all of the businesses and individuals who generously donated silent auction items. Your contributions helped make the evening a success and directly support the continued work of the GDTA. 

    Lastly, events like this help fund the ongoing work of the Great Divide Trail Association, including trail maintenance, stewardship, advocacy, infrastructure projects, and connecting people with the outdoors. 

    To everyone who attended, volunteered, donated, submitted films, sponsored the event, or helped spread the word, thank you. Your support helps keep the spirit of the Great Divide Trail alive and thriving. 

    We are already looking forward to the next one! 

    Calgary’s Mayor, Jeromy Farkas

  • Crowsnest Pass Stewardship Day – June 6, 2026

    Crowsnest Pass Stewardship Day – June 6, 2026

    Join the upcoming Ed Gregor Stewardship Day

    Everyone is welcome to join the upcoming Ed Gregor Stewardship Day on Saturday, June 6 from 8 am to 5 pm. in Blairmore, Alberta. Come help us maintain sustainable multi-use opportunities in our Public Crowsnest Forest with this long-standing stewardship event!

    We will meet at the Blairmore Ranger Station (11901-19 Ave, Blairmore) at 8 a.m. to enjoy a free breakfast put on by the Coleman Lion’s Club. Participants can review the available projects and sign up for their choice. Projects include Fish & Game Pond Trail Clearing, Trail Projects, River and Garbage Cleanups, and Weed Pulls. Lots of options for families and volunteers of all ages.

    At 3:30 pm, participants will meet back at the Blairmore Ranger Station for a free supper by the Blairmore Lion’s Club, raffle and a draw to win a chainsaw. Special prizes for all kids!

    Don’t forget to bring sturdy footwear, lunch/snacks/water, gloves, clothes for the weather, and eye protection.

    The event is supported by the Crowsnest Forest Stewardship Society, Crowsnest Pass Quad Squad, Hillcrest Fish and Game, Great Divide Trail Association, Government of Alberta, Crowsnest Conservation Society, and the Alberta Hiking Association. Thanks to all project supporters and sponsors.

  • Trail Days 2026: 50 Years of Wild

    Trail Days 2026: 50 Years of Wild

    June 12–14, 2026 | Crowsnest Pass, Alberta

    Celebrating the Great Divide Trail—and all trails! Join us this June 12–14 in the Crowsnest Pass for the inaugural Trail Days, a weekend dedicated to celebrating 50 Years of Wild.

    While rooted in the legacy of the Great Divide Trail, this event is a celebration of all trails, the landscapes they traverse, and the communities that bring them to life. Hosted by the Great Divide Trail Association, Trail Days brings together locals, visitors, and outdoor enthusiasts to connect, learn, and celebrate recreation in one of Alberta’s most incredible mountain regions.

    🎟 All-Access Pass: $35 per person for the full weekend

    Friday, June 12

    • Kick things off with a welcome evening at the Orpheum Theatre in Blairmore, featuring live music from the Kinjo Brothers.

    Saturday, June 13

    A full day of Trail Days programming, including:

    • A vibrant market with local vendors and community groups
    • Live music from Tynan Groves
    • Hands-on workshops and trail-focused learning experiences
    • A planetarium experience with Dark Sky Guides
    • An evening 50 Years of Wild celebration featuring a panel discussion with founding and legacy GDTA members
    • Live music from Sid Marty & Wailback

    Sunday, June 14

    • Morning pancake breakfast
    • Great Divide Trail Mural Reveal at Kindred Ground in Coleman
    • Afternoon Great Divide Trail hiker meet-up at Ophelia Outpost in Bellevue. Connect with past, present, and future GDT hikers to swap stories and talk trail planning.

    See the full Trail Days Schedule here.

    Featured Experiences:

    Kinjo Brothers

    A Calgary-based family band blending soul, roots, reggae, and R&B, the Kinjo Brothers bring an energetic and globally influenced sound shaped by years of touring and musical collaboration

    Planetarium Experience

    Step inside an immersive dome theatre and explore the night sky like never before. Using a 360° projection system, this guided experience takes you on a journey through the stars, planets, and beyond bringing the universe to life through engaging storytelling and visuals, no matter the weather.

    50 Years of Wild – Panel Discussion

    To celebrate 50 Years of Wild, join us for a special panel featuring three of the Great Divide Trail Association’s founding members, Dave Higgins, Jeff Gruttz, and Jenny Feick, alongside Wayne Marshall and Dan Wallace, who played a key role in bringing the GDTA out of hibernation in 2004.

    Sid Marty & Wailback

    Renowned Alberta singer-songwriter, author, and former park warden, known for his original songs and storytelling inspired by the Rocky Mountains and life in Western Canada.

    Whether you hike, bike, ride, or simply enjoy time outside, Trail Days is your invitation to celebrate the trails that connect us—to nature, to community, and to each other. Explore, learn, and experience everything the Crowsnest Pass has to offer.

    How Recreational Trails Affect Plant Communities

    Increases in visitation to protected areas coupled with natural disturbances make it challenging to meet both goals of conserving biodiversity and inspiring connection with the natural world. Researcher, Heather Davis, uncovers how recreational trails shift plant communities based on trail use levels, vegetation type, wildfire, and the interactions between them. Learn more about this research, see amazing pictures of Waterton Lakes National Park, and find out how you can be a more mindful explorer.

    Free & Open to the Public

    Everyone is welcome to drop in and enjoy select Trail Days experiences at no cost:

    • Trail Days Market with local vendors and community groups, and live music from Tynan Groves – Saturday, June 12th
    • Select workshops – Saturday, June 12th
    • Great Divide Trail hiker meet-up for past, present, and future hikers to connect, share stories, and talk trail planning – Sunday, June 13th

    GET TICKETS HERE

    Thank you to our lead sponsor, Travel Alberta, for making this event spectacular!

  • Turn Your Gear into Trail Support

    Turn Your Gear into Trail Support

    Geartrade Garage Sale in Support of the Great Divide Trail Association

    Got gear you are not using anymore? Let it do some good.

    The Annual Garage Sale in support of the Great Divide Trail Association (GDTA) is back, and the easiest way to take part is by donating or consigning your gear. No need to set up a table or manage sales. Just drop off your items and we will handle the rest.

    It is a simple way to clear out your gear, support the trail, and be part of something meaningful.


    The Easiest Way to Participate: Donate or Consign

    If you have gently used outdoor gear, we would love to take it off your hands.

    Option 1: Donate Your Gear

    The simplest way to support the trail.

    • Drop off your items and we will sell them at the event
    • 100 percent of proceeds go directly to the Great Divide Trail
    • No follow-up needed

    Option 2: Consign Your Gear

    Support the trail and earn a little back.

    • Drop off your items and we will sell them for you
    • You receive 70 percent of the sale
    • 30 percent supports the Great Divide Trail

    How it works:

    • Drop off your items at Geartrade between May 1 and May 9 (by appointment)
    • Label each item with your name, phone number, price, and whether you are open to offers
    • We will take care of the rest

    Drop-off options:

    • Geartrade (May 1 to May 9, during business hours, by appointment)
    • Day-of drop-off starting at 9:30 am

    If these times do not work, reach out and we will find another option.

    Pick-up deadline (consignment only):
    All unsold items or proceeds must be picked up by 3:30 pm on May 9.


    Why It Matters

    Donations and consignment items are where we raise the most funds for the trail. Every item sold helps support maintenance, protection, and access along the Great Divide Trail.

    Your old gear can help keep the trail wild.


    Want to Shop or Sell in Person?

    You can still join us on the day to browse or sell your own gear.

    For buyers:

    • Free entry
    • Great deals on outdoor gear
    • Cash recommended

    For sellers:


    Join Us

    Come by the Geartrade parking lot for a day of gear, community, and trail support. We will have a campfire, smokies, chips, and refreshments available, with all proceeds going to the GDTA.

    Whether you are donating gear, consigning items, hunting for deals, or just stopping in to say hello, we would love to see you there.

    Garage Sale BBQ
    Garage Sale BBQ