What you need to know about visiting Alberta Parks in 2020
Vehicle access to Alberta Parks has been restored, but there are a few things you should know before you go. If we give everyone space and leave no trace, we should have a safe and healthy hiking and camping season!
Grassi Lakes, Kananaskis
Here’s what you need to know before visiting Alberta Parks:
Outhouses and garbage pick-up aren’t available until May 14, 2020. Please plan accordingly (bring toilet paper, garbage bags, and hand sanitizer) and pack out all trash and waste including toilet paper, diapers, feminine hygiene products/wrappers, and waste.
Visit parks near your home and do not stop in small communities for gas or snacks. The Alberta Government is still advising against non-essential travel to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
Physical distancing is still in place to prevent a second wave of COVID-19 infections. You may hike with members of your household and/or cohort family only, and should keep 2 metres away from others. Did you know there is a $1200 fine for failing to physically distance? For more information on cohort families (basically an exclusive buddy family – read guidelines carefully), please visit Government of Alberta | Prevent the Spread | Cohort Families. A mask can protect those around you and provide you with some protection in the event someone near you coughs or sneezes.
Have a backup plan in case your first choice of hiking trail / day use area looks busy. This way everyone can spread out on the trails and stay safe. Basically, if the parking lot is full, please drive on to the next one (don’t park on the side of the road). 😉
Please stay home if you are sick or have recently been near someone who is sick. We have yet to flatten the curve.
There is currently a fire ban in all provincial parks and the Forest Protection Area. For updates, please visit Alberta Parks | Fire Bans.
Select campgrounds will open on June 1st. Please note that only individual campsites and backcountry campsites are reservable as of May 14 (a list of reservable campgrounds will be posted on Alberta Parks on May 13). To ensure physical distancing, select campgrounds will operate at 50% capacity and reservations can only be made by Alberta residents. More campgrounds will be available to book in June.
Karen is a lover of maps, mountains, and mochas. She started Play Outside Guide in 2013 to provide "Everything you need to know to get outside and have fun!" Find her on the trails or road tripping around Southern Alberta.
