Tips, rules and guidelines

Engaging in outdoor activities involves certain risks, and it is always wise to exercise caution. In winter, cold weather can present a real danger. Because forewarned is forearmed, here are some tips to help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable outing in the Greenbelt.

• Plan your route in advance, and consider trail distance, as well as your own ability and the number of daylight hours before nightfall.
• Tell someone where you are going, and avoid setting out alone on the trails.
• Dress appropriately, and wear footwear that is suited to your activity and the weather conditions.

Besides your cellphone for taking photos or making a call, these are the essentials you should have in your backpack:

• Greenbelt All Seasons Trail Map
• Compass, if you do not have a cellphone or GPS
• First aid kit, flashlight, whistle, pocket knife and matches
• Water and food
• Seasonal protection: sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, hat or tuque, gloves, and extra clothing (raincoat, warm clothing)

Here are the main rules and guidelines to follow to help ensure a safe visit to the Greenbelt. It is the responsibility of Greenbelt visitors to know and follow the rules and guidelines, and to act prudently.

• Motorized vehicles, open fires, alcoholic beverages, hunting and trapping are strictly prohibited.
• Follow these seven principles of outdoor ethics.
• Lock your doors, and do not leave valuables in your car.
• Keep your dog on a leash when walking on the multi-use pathways, and observe trail signage indicating where you may walk your leashed dog on natural trails.
• When cycling on non-paved Greenbelt multi-use pathways, please do so only when they are hard-packed, to avoid causing ruts or erosion.
• Several trails and pathways pass next to farmland. Please respect the farmers who earn their living from these lands, and stay on the trail.

In the winter

• Ice-covered waterways are dangerous, and should be avoided at all times.
• Do not walk or snowshoe on or near cross-country ski trails.

Check the web page for your activity to find out about the ethics code, rules and other useful information for your outing.