Enjoy the GDT safely in 2021
While pandemic recovery continues and the world slowly reopens, the Great Divide Trail Association continues to consider what is best for the health and safety of the trail community that we serve. Staying active in the outdoors is an excellent way to keep your body and mind healthy, and we encourage everyone who spends time on the GDT this year to do so safely and continue to do your part to limit the spread of COVID-19.
For those considering travel on the GDT in 2021, remember that travel on the GDT is considered non-essential.
At this time, the GDTA supports single-day hikes or horseback rides on the GDT and longer (weekend or multi-day) if they are in your local area, where trails and trailheads are open.
To limit the potential transmission of the virus between you and others when on the GDT, please follow these guidelines:
- Check with public health agencies for information near your starting point, along your route, and at your planned destination. Any GDT travel must comply with provincial and federal guidelines and laws.
- Travel only with members of your household; practice 2-metre physical distancing from others at all times on the trail.
- Avoid crowds, shared facilities and indoor spaces.
- Stay local, explore sections of the trail near your home.
- Always Leave No Trace.
Backcountry use has the potential to add unnecessary stress to the healthcare system and put public safety staff at risk, including exposure to COVID-19, which could then impact resources to support search and rescue, so please keep your hiking plans conservative and your risk low.
Despite the pandemic, the GDTA continues our work with your support:
- Trail building & maintenance trips continue to move forward this summer.
- Our Trail Protection & Advocacy Committee continues to make progress toward our goal of permanent protection of the GDT.
- Our first ever charitable donation campaign held by our Ensuring Financial Capacity Committee was a huge success thanks to your generous support!
The GDTA will continue to monitor and follow the recommendations of the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Provincial Health Authorities of Alberta and BC, and provide updates as new information becomes available.
Thank you for being responsible and taking precautions to keep yourself and others safe!
The Great Divide Trail Association
