Members! Hiking season is finally back again, and our attention is certainly focused on the hikers about to set out on the GDT this year. But the board is also looking to get a jump-start on planning for the Fall Annual General Meeting.
Save the Date: Monday, September 28, 2026; online*
(registration details will go out soon after the hiking season)
As a registered Canadian charitable organization, the GDTA has a legal obligation to present members our financials and have them vote to approve them. This has traditionally been done in September each year and has also been the venue used to provide updates on the year’s activities and vote for new board members.
We want to hear your thoughts:
what do you want to hear about at the AGM?
are there people you think deserve recognition this year?
are there updates you’ve been hoping to hear more on?
are there issues you want to make sure are on the board’s radar?
what would make the AGM more useful for you as a member?
Email your thoughts to: agm@greatdividetrail.com – We’ll do our best to address the comments we receive during the AGM.
Sincerely,
Your Board of Directors
* Note: The AGM moved virtually a few years back due to planning, costs, and technical challenges of hosting in person so close to the end of the hiking season. Furthermore, our membership extends well beyond a single region, so hosting virtually provides equal access to the material. But have no fear, the board appreciates the value of in-Person get togethers, which is why you saw a good number of meetups last year. We’ll be doing the same again this year
Photo Credit: Harrison Crerar – GDTA Photo Contest 2025
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
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 PM: Kinjo 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 Taken 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.
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM: Planetarium Experience with Dark Sky Guides 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
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 PM: Sid Marty & Wailback Live music and storytelling inspired by the Rocky Mountains and Western Canada.
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.
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.
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.
Do you have a passion for safety, helping others, and spending time in the outdoors?
The Great Divide Trail Association is looking for a volunteer Safety Officer to help support our trail building, maintenance, and volunteer programs. This role plays an important part in helping us develop safe practices, review procedures, support trip leaders, and contribute to a culture where volunteers can confidently work and recreate in remote backcountry environments.
Whether your background is in occupational health and safety, emergency response, risk management, outdoor leadership, or a related field, we’d love to hear from you.
This is a rewarding opportunity to give back to Canada’s premier long-distance hiking trail while helping protect the people who make it possible.
👉 Interested in learning more or getting involved? Contact us at volunteer@greatdividetrail.com or send us a direct message.
Together, we can help keep the Great Divide Trail safe, sustainable, and thriving for generations to come. 🌲🥾
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
Visit one of the participating locations listed below.
Let the staff know you’re there to pick up your GDT Hang Tag.
Scan the QR code they provide to complete your registration.
Show the staff your completed registration.
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.
A hundred years from now, someone will walk the Great Divide Trail who doesn’t know our names. They’ll experience the beauty of the Rockies and the corridor we’ve helped to protect, walk along the trails we built together, and feel the connection of the community. They’ll know the trail. But they won’t know us, unless we tell them.
The GDTA is proud to be installing a 100-year time capsule along the GDT this summer. We are collecting stories and photos from members, preserving them, and sending them to the Association of 2126 to tell them about the beginnings of the trail and our hopes for its future.
Start writing today, and join us in sending our trail stories into the future.
Submit your message!
$5 contribution: Your message will be preserved on archival media in digital form, and securely sealed in the capsule. Submit up to 250 words and 1 photo.
$15 contribution: Your message will be preserved on special archival paper, up to 2 pages in length (900 words), and up to 5 photos. PLUS you’ll receive one of only 50 beautiful ceramic mementos (as supplies last). In addition, you can submit up to 12 pages to be preserved in digital format.
These mementos are hand-made by a Calgary artisan, a sturdy 3/8″ thick and 5″ across, with a full-colour GDTA logo, GPS location, and opening date of the capsule. Carry it with you, hand down to your descendants, or entrust to an institution, to preserve the memory of the capsule.
These are currently in production and will be mailed to you directly after the capsule is installed. If there is significant interest, more mementos may be produced.
There will also be limited space for physical artifacts, so if there’s something you feel should be included, send us an email explaining your idea and we may be able to include it.
Submissions close June 15th.
How it Works
Online: Fill in our online submission form HERE. You can either submit typed text, or a photo/scan of your handwritten message which is especially fun for people of the future to see. (GDTA 2126 Time Capsule Submission – Fill out form)
or
In-Person: Join us for Trail Days, and visit the GDTA’s booth on June 13th to hand-write a message on archival paper.
Not Sure What to Write?
Here are a few prompts:
The trail asked something of you. A hard day, a hard year, a stretch that cost more than you expected. What did it ask, and what did you learn about yourself when you answered?
Describe a single day or night along the trail. The sound of the forest, laughs with friends, a delicious trail snack creation, or a summit worth remembering. How did it feel?
What do you hope the GDT looks like in 100 years? What exists today that you hope remains, and what does it mean to you?
What would you want a hiker in 2126 to know about the people who built this trail?
Tell us your favorite trail story, or campfire story, that makes people laugh, cry, or get inspired?
For the gear junkies: what is your favorite piece of gear, and why? What are the specs, and what do you predict in the gear evolution of the future?
There’s no wrong answer. Write what matters to you.
Share photos of anything that inspires you, that are related to the GDT. Landscapes and views, the people you’ve met and walked with, or your gear!
The Specs
The capsule itself is a stainless steel tube, 6″ in diameter and 14″ long, filled with argon and welded shut at both ends for total water resistance and it will be encased in a watertight plastic container for additional protection. The capsule will be installed in a secure location near the new Blaeberry Cable Car crossing, as it is a major infrastructure project along the trail that has the best chance of standing the test of time. The capsule location will be registered with historical societies, university history departments, and time capsule record-keeping organizations.
Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity! Submit your message before June 15th.
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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
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.
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.
A Taste of the Trail – May 7
“The Kakwa Falls is a Northern Alberta landmark revered by many. This makes it the perfect inspiration for Latitude 55 DistilleriesKakwa Rum, the first true craft rum made in Alberta. Distilled in Grande Prairie from blackstrap molasses and aged in bourbon barrels, this golden spirit has been expertly blended for a rich, sweet flavour. Kakwa Rum is a completely unique experience. Just like the falls themselves.” — Latitude 55 Distilleries
Kakwa Rum is the official rum of the Great Divide Trail Film Festival & Fundraiser, featuring films made by trail users, for trail users. Come for a taste! Calgary Film Fest and Rum Tasting Tickets – May 7
Edmonton Film Fest Screening – May 13
Prefer a more casual vibe? Join the Edmonton screening and social — snacks included. BUY EDMONTON TICKETS HERE
photo Alex Northey
Smartphone Photography Guest Speaker at the Film Fest & Fundraiser
Our evening of films will open with InSight Creative Workshops, who will share a quick and practical session on smartphone photography.
photo Leo Queinnec
MAKE IT BIG. MAKE IT MONTHLY.
Protecting and maintaining the Great Divide Trail is a BIG job, but your monthly donation will help tackle it step by step. Make it Monthly by donating here! GEARTRADE GARAGE SALE
Gear up (or clear out)! The Geartrade Garage Sale brings together outdoor enthusiasts for deals, donations, “Tent-a-Polooza,” and backcountry food samples — all in support of the trail. Buy, sell or consign. INFORMATION HERE
photo Leith
TRAIL DAYS June 12–14, 2026 | Crowsnest Pass, Alberta
Join us for the first-ever Trail Days Festival as we celebrate 50 years of the Great Divide Trail Association. Enjoy a weekend of music, inspiring speakers, and all things trails. Details and tickets!
photo Roger Xiao
BEAR AWARE Sharing The Trail This Season
As the snow begins to recede and the trail comes back to life, so do the bears. This month, we’re sharing a quick reminder on what it means to be bear aware as they emerge from their winter torpor and begin moving through the landscape again. It’s a simple but important part of spending time in the backcountry…more.
GDT CALENDAR OF EVENTS
📅 MAY 7
ANNUAL GREAT DIVIDE TRAIL FILM FESTIVAL & FUNDRAISER
Rum Tasting and SmartPhone Workshop Tickets
