Dear friends, GBCTA supporters and trail enthusiasts,
The GBCTA has been closely watching this pandemic unfolding and have been actively communicating with Alberta Environment and Parks staff as we absorb and integrate recommendations from public health officials. Of particular concern has been how these new rules for public engagement impact recreational activities on public lands, given we were all advised that the great outdoors is still open for business.
We have now reached a crossroads where increased outdoor activities have added pressure to already busy trails and parking lots. This, coupled with the closing of public facilities including washrooms, has made maintaining a safe environment a concern.
Although public trails and parking lots have not been closed, we have decided to suspend all winter trail grooming and maintenance operations in West Bragg Creek Kananaskis Country until further notice. We did not take this decision lightly. It is important that we are not promoting large gatherings, even if in parking lots.
The GBCTA will continue to follow the lead of the Alberta Government and strongly recommends that you all do the same. We encourage you to follow the recommended safe practices and have included some COVID-19 trail use guidelines that we hope you will take to heart.
We are all in this together and we will surface at the other end wiser and more appreciative of the outdoor opportunities we as Albertans enjoy.
Sincerely,
The GBCTA Board of Directors
