Trail Talk
Popular Trail in West Bragg Creek Decommissioned
Regular trail users in West Bragg Creek will be familiar with the boulder-hop across Bragg Creek to access Old Shell Road and likely have risked a “soaker” or two. This shortcut to the north trails is now permanently closed and is being restored to its natural state. Restoration work has also been completed to protect the eroded creek banks that were heavily damaged by past flooding. Closing this crossing is an important step to reduce impacts on the fragile Bragg Creek aquatic environment, which is designated as critical bull trout habitat. The restoration plan also includes strategic plantings and debris piles to hinder access. Shell Oil and its contractors, under a mandate from Alberta’s Energy Regulator, are completing this work before Shell can relinquish its Licence of Occupation.
Bypass routes remain available along the south side of the creek, leading to the Moose Connector bridge for crossing. Once approved, BCT plans to twin Braggin’ Rights trail with a new section connecting to the top end of Old Shell Road for access to Moose Connector and beyond. For this winter, the trail management plan will accommodate displaced fat bikers, snowshoers, and walkers by packing an exclusive trail along the east edge of the Moose Connector ski trail. This short section, between Moose Meadow and the creek bridge, will be marked with poles and designed to keep all users safely in their lanes.
BCT thanks everyone for their cooperation in respecting the posted signage. Doing so will ensure your trail experience remains positive, safe and environmentally responsible.
See you on the trails!
Con Schiebel, BCT President
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