Bruce Trail to partially reopen to public

The Bruce Trail Conservancy will be reopening about 85 per cent of the trail starting June 2.

Still, the conservancy has imposed several restrictions on the public when they are using the trail because of the coronavirus pandemic.

They include practicing physical distancing; only hike with members of your household; be prepared to change direction if the trail becomes too crowded; walk or hike in short spans of time.

During this pandemic it has become clear how important access to natural spaces is to people's well-being," said Michael McDonald, chief executive officer, the Bruce Trail Conservancy. As we take this next step, let's be sure to hike safely and observe the physical distancing protocol so that we can continue to spend more time outdoors."

The conservancy closed the trail and facilities because of COVID-19 on March 27.

Officials said areas where the trail remains closed include high traffic tourism destinations, most waterfalls, and some private properties. Updates will be provided at the website brucetrail.org.

In addition, even though the trail is open, most facilities are closed and some parking is restricted or not available.

The main trail is about 900 kilometres that stretches from the Niagara River to the tip of Tobermory. There are also over 400 kilometres of associated side trails that predominately follows the edge of the Niagara Escarpment, one of the 13 UNESCO World Biosphere Reserves in Canada.

The land is owned by the province, local conservation authorities, private landowners and the Bruce Trail Conservancy.

The Bruce Trail Conservancy office is closed, but staff is working and still available by phone or email at 1-800-665-4453, or info@brucetrail.org.