For the third year in a row, the Great Divide Trail Association (GDTA) is honoured to be one of the charitable recipients of proceeds from GearTrade’s Ultralight Advent Box.
This year, the project carries special meaning. After the passing of GearTrade’s Jesse Hebenton, the box has been renamed in his memory: Jesse’s 2025 Ultralight Advent Box.
Jesse & Michelle Hebenton, and the entire GearTrade team have been incredible supporters of the GDTA over the years, helping us protect, promote, and maintain the Great Divide Trail. Jesse was a dedicated trail advocate and gear enthusiast whose enthusiasm for the outdoors, commitment to responsible recreation, and passion for helping others get outside safely left an indelible mark on our community and continues to inspire us all through the ongoing generosity of Michelle and the GearTrade family.
When Jesse first reached out to let us know that the GDTA would be one of the charity recipients of the Advent Calendar proceeds, we had no idea this would grow into a multi-year tradition of generosity and support. Yet here we are, and we couldn’t be more grateful.
For those of you who were lucky enough to snag one of these awesome boxes before they sold out, know that some of those proceeds have made their way back to the GDTA, helping us continue the important work of maintaining and protecting the Great Divide Trail. This year alone, $2,500 was donated to the GDTA from the proceeds.
Thank you to Michelle Hebenton and everyone at GearTrade for continuing this meaningful project and for supporting the work we do to keep the Great Divide Trail wild, accessible, and inspiring for generations to come.
