Starting Sept 18, 2020, entry to Rock Dunder hiking trails will be limited to 30 groups per hour. Due to the increased demand for outdoor recreational activities during the COVID-19 pandemic, the hiking trails at Rock Dunder have experienced record-setting levels of usage since our opening in May.
Staff have been closely monitoring the situation and surveying exiting hikers during peak times to determine if they felt that the 2m social distancing requirements could be upheld. On September 5, over 220 groups visited Rock Dunder over the course of the day and the safe operating capacity was exceeded for the first time. The RWLT board decided that enacting an hourly limit on the number of groups entering the property would allow everyone to better enjoy their time in nature while still following governmental and health guidelines on social distancing.
To facilitate this change to an hourly limit, tickets purchased through Eventbrite will now be for a specific entry time between 7am and 6pm. Visitors must arrive during the hour in which their ticket is valid. We also encourage visitors to purchase a pass in advance through Eventbrite to ensure that they will be allowed entry. If the limit is reached, groups without a pass will be asked to return later.
A reminder that all previously implemented COVID protocols are still in place:
- Drivers are asked to wear masks when purchasing passes at the trail head.
- Please use contactless forms of payment – credit or debit
- All trails are one way to facilitate social distancing. Please follow the posted signage.
- Washrooms are closed for the 2020 season. Used toilet paper and other trash must be bagged and taken offsite by the hiker.
At RWLT we understand the need for outdoor recreation opportunities during these stressful times. The new procedures are designed to protect everyone as well as the sensitive environmental features on the property while still allowing hikers an opportunity to experience nature. The Board of Directors wishes everyone a safe, healthy fall.
The Rideau Waterway Land Trust (RWLT) is a charitable organization that has been working to preserve significant natural lands within the Rideau Corridor since 1996.
Image: Video screencap
Release (links added): Rideau Waterway Land Trust
