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May 1, 2024

How to be a Purposeful Traveller

Thank you for visiting! While you are here, we want you to have an incredible time exploring the southeast corner of British Columba. For generations, the Ktunaxa & other Kootenay locals have taken great care of the wonder that you see around you. Embrace our legacy and join us in cherishing this magnificent region. Together, we uphold and honour the rich history, natural wonders, and our unique mountain culture.

Let’s create happiness all together.

Waterfall Chasing in Glacier National Park, Bear Creek Falls; photo by Mitch Winton

KEEP THE ENVIRONMENT & THE COMMUNITIES CLEAN
Whenever available, use public washrooms & outhouses
Clean up after your pets
Pack out ALL of your waste & dispose of it into designated wildlife-proof garbage & recycling containers

PREPARE FOR ALL ADVENTURES
If you’re new to a sport or to the region, consider hiring a certified guide for hiking, biking, skiing, snowmobiling, paddling, ATVing & fishing;  plus, take a course or some training
Be prepared with food, water, maps & first aid supplies
Wear appropriate footwear & clothing and be prepared for sudden weather changes on the water and in the mountains in ALL seasons
Avoid risking your life for a selfie
Follow the 3T’s – Trip-planning, Training & Taking the essentials
Always let someone know your plans before adventuring into the wild
Whenever possible, travel with a companion
In some parts of the Kootenays, there is limited cell service
Be avalanche aware & always carry the safety gear

Backcountry Hikers in Valhalla Provincial Park; photo by Kari Medig

KEEP WILDLIFE WILD & YOURSELF SAFE
Wildlife can be anywhere at any time
– Don’t feed the wildlife & keep your distance
Respect pet restriction & use a leash for pets if & when they’re allowed
Carry bear spray and make noise (sing & talk loudly)
Respect areas where motorized vehicles (ATV’s, snowmobile, dirt bikes, etc.) & motor boats are banned
Be sure to have the proper  fishing licence

Bighorn Sheep in Radium Hot Springs; photo by Field & Forest

RESPECT TRAIL ETIQUETTE
Stay on the trail & share the trail with other users & wildlife
Cyclists yield to everyone & hikers yield to horses
Keep motorized vehicles to designated motorized trails only
Be friendly with people you encounter on the trail
Did you enjoy the local trails? Consider making a donation or buying a trail pass

Alpine Mountain Biking in Revelstoke; photo by Bruno Long

RESPECT EVERYTHING LOCAL
Respect & honour Indigenous People as stewards of the land & water you are travelling through
Respect private property, including private parking spaces
Support local shops & businesses

St. Eugene Golf Resort Casino; photo by Mitch Winton

CAMP RESPONSIBLY
Only camp in designated camping areas
Keep a clean campsite
Pay your camping fees & respect quiet hours and other rules

Glamping at the Redstreak Campground in Kootenay National Park; photo by Kari Medig

THINK BEFORE YOU LIGHT A FIRE
Wildfires are a serious threat to our communities & landscapes
Check for & respect fire bans
Never leave a campfire unattended & put your campfire out completely when you leave; ashes should be cool to touch
If you smoke, make sure your butts are fully extinguished & dispose of them in designated waste facilities

STOP THE SPREAD OF INVASIVE SPECIES
Ensure vehicles, trailers, boats, bikes, & boots are cleaned, drained & dried before and after visiting an area
Take only pictures & leave local flora in its natural habitat

Paddling on Lake Windermere, near Invermere; photo by Kari Medig

DRIVE CAREFULLY
Respect speed limits
Keep the noise of all motorized vehicles at a minimum
Ensure your vehicle is equipped for the journey before setting off (such as 4×4, high clearance & winter tires) and check driving conditions before you hit the road
RV’s & slow vehicles can pull over to let others pass on windy & uphill roads
Some Forest Service Roads are active logging/mining roads – be informed & yield to trucks

Travelling on Highway (The Crowsnest); photo by Kari Medig

Please be mindful when posting on social media and consider the potential impacts that rapidly increases use can have on our wild places. Turn off your geotagging or use a generic location tag such as a community or a business.

And, please ASK if you don’t know. Information is the key to be a responsible visitor. Kootenay locals are friendly & knowledgeable. Stop in local Visitor Centres, outdoor retailers or outfitter, contact a local club and ask for assistance and tips!

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