All Trip Planning Resources have been updated for 2026. This includes our Maps, Campgrounds, Itineraries, and Permits pages, as well as the track in the GDT App. A list of notable changes to the GDT are summarized below – Happy Planning!
Section A:
- New switchbacks were constructed on the Syncline Trail, decreasing the steepness of the climb up from the West Castle Road.
- Reminder for hikers needing a detour around La Coulotte Ridge due to adverse conditions, the South Castle Road alternate route offers a bypass route from the Font Creek Trail (near a20) reconnecting with the GDT at Suicide Creek trailhead (a31).
Section B:
- New bear lockers have been installed at North Racehorse Creek campground and Cache Creek campground.
- The new Erris Lake Trail is now available as an alternate on the north end of the High Rock Trail.
- Additional trail construction continues as we fine-tune the Erris Lake Trail and the High Rock Trail resulting in a few minor route changes. If you see GDTA trail crews out there this summer, say hi!
Section C:
- Resupply package delivery will continue to be available at the Elk Pass Trailhead in Peter Lougheed Provincial Park. Resupply packages will be delivered by the GDTA and stored in bear lockers installed at the Elk Pass Trailhead. Resupply delivery service fee is $50 for GDTA members or $70 for non-members. Contact the GDTA at elkpass@greatdividetrail.com to book your delivery service and receive mailing instructions.
Section D:
- The log bridge across the Blaeberry River near Cairnes Creek Rec Site (built in June 2024) was still in good shape at the end of the 2025 hiking season, connecting the Collie Creek alternate with the David Thompson Heritage Trail. If all goes according to plan, the bridge will be replaced by a new cable car this summer, creating a long-lasting connection to the Collie Creek Trail on the east side of the Blaeberry River.
- The Howse River has shifted course over the past few years. The track on the GDT map and app has been adjusted slightly to accommodate the river’s new course, but hikers should be prepared to route-find in order to navigate safely across the floodplain as the river continues to shift from time to time.
Section E:
- Random camping is not allowed anywhere along Owen Creek within Banff National Park.
- The Six-Passes Alternate Route remains closed to all overnight random camping but is open for day use.
- Trail maintenance on the Maligne Pass Trail has significantly improved that route with much of the deadfall and brush removed over the past few years. Similar to previous years, the three campgrounds on the Maligne Pass Trail previously available online as ‘Maligne Pass North’ (Mary Vaux, Mary Schäffer, Trapper Creek) are listed in the online reservation system separately, with 1 site per night available at each campground.
- In 2024, Jasper was devastated by wildfire, destroying about a third of the town and many square kilometres of wilderness in the national park. Most of the park has reopened, including all of the GDT, but recovery from the wildfire continues. Please be mindful that while the park and town have reopened to visitors, businesses and residents are still recovering from the impact of the wildfire.
Section F:
- After being closed for a few years during repairs, the Berg Lake Trail in Mount Robson Provincial Park completely re-opened in 2025, including several re-routed sections of new trail. Hikers can exit via the Berg Lake Trail to reach Highway 16 or resupply at the Mount Robson Visitor Centre.
- The Colonel Creek Trail was cleared of deadfall (again) in 2025.
Section G:
- Exit or resupply via the Blueberry Trail are good options. Resupply package delivery is available at the Blueberry Trailhead delivered by Robson Backcountry Adventures and stored in bear lockers. Please contact info@jasperhikesandtours.ca or 1.780.931.4453 to book your delivery service and receive mailing instructions. Discount for GDTA members.
- The south end of the Providence Pass High Route was re-routed to begin at Providence Pass rather than at Broadview Lake, creating an improved hiking experience. Route-finding is still required.
- The Walker Creek FSR was in rough shape at the end of the 2025 season and might not be accessible all the way to Bastille Creek trailhead. There are several rough, muddy and washed out sections; 4WD high clearance vehicles are highly recommended.
Happy trails and good luck out there in 2026!