Outdoor activities

Rules and trail etiquette

Some activities are incompatible with our goal of protecting the ecological integrity of the Reserve so that it can be appreciated by future generations. The following restrictions therefore apply throughout the Reserve, and to visitors from the University as well as the public.

Plan your visit

	Rules and guidelines
	Plan your visit by checking the rules and the code of ethics. You must always carry your day pass or your annual card during your visit.
	Pets are not allowed.
	Wear comfortable clothes suited for hiking. Dress in multiple light layers so that you will be comfortable in a wide range of weather conditions. Wear waterproof/breathable lightweight boots or shoes. If recommended, wear crampons.
	People visit the Reserve to relax, please keep noise to a minimum or wear earphones.
	Smoke-free environment.
	You must remain on the hiking trails.
Trail etiquette	Hikers coming uphill have the right of way. Please respect one-way travel on the trails. Keep right, pass left. Make your intentions known! Call out when passing. If you want to pass, clearly and politely communicate your plans to other users.
	Access is only permitted during opening hours. The Reserve is private property; trespassers could face fines.

Protecting wildlife and flora

	Rules
	Leave your garbage or recycling in the containers provided.
	Do not feed, disturb, trap or hunt animals.
	Help preserve the flora and reduce your environmental impact: stay on marked trails to keep from trampling the plants.
	It is forbidden to take plant specimens, minerals or anything else from the Reserve (animals, plants, wood, rocks, etc.) or to introduce species.

Prohibited activities

	Rules
	No climbing, orienteering, horseback riding, hang-gliding or sliding.
	No swimming, sailing or fishing on Hertel Lake.
	No operating a drone or other remotely operated device.
	No bikes, motorcycles, snowmobiles or other vehicles.
	No BBQs, campfires or camping.

Guide dogs and service dogs

Guide dogs and service dogs are allowed at the Reserve. The dog must be trained to meet the needs of someone with a physical, cognitive, or visual impairment. Upon arrival to the site, you will need to:

• Show official documentation attesting to the animal's training by a recognized institution
• Dogs must wear their working harness at all time

Emotional support dogs (therapy dogs) are not allowed.

Safety

Hiking and other outdoor activities at the Gault Nature Reserve involve various risks, dangers, and hazards, including but not limited to the following:

• Rapid changes in weather conditions;
• Exposure to natural elements including sun, wind, rain, snow, and ice;
• Uneven, slippery, or unstable terrain;
• Exposed roots, rocks, mud, or other natural features;
• Steep slopes, cliffs, or sudden changes in elevation;
• Falling branches, dead trees, or forest debris;
• Presence of streams, wetlands, or bodies of water that may be hard to detect or cross;
• Reduced visibility or blind spots caused by vegetation or terrain;
• Encounters with domestic or wild animals, including deer, coyotes, or insects;
• Slips, trips, or falls due to loss of footing or balance;
• Fatigue, dehydration, or medical emergencies in remote areas;
• Risk of getting lost or separated from companions;
• Accidents during guided tours, educational activities, or other programs;
• Failure to act safely, to respect one’s limits, or to follow posted signage and designated trails;
• Negligence of other visitors.

By entering the Gault Nature Reserve, visitors acknowledge and accept full responsibility for these risks and are expected to exercise caution and good judgment at all times.