Ancient Forest-Chun T'oh Whudujut Provincial Park has been closed to the public in response to the novel coronavirus pandemic.
The closure applies to both the park's facilities and trails and is among 17 in the BC Parks system that have been closed. Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park is the other northern B.C. provincial park now closed to the public.
The move was made after officials found many people visiting the destinations were not practicing social distancing and staying at least two metres away from each other.
"The mental and physical wellness benefit of being outside during the COVID-19 pandemic response is important, but keeping people safe right now is the most important thing we can be doing," said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy.
In addition to the BC Parks closures, the Recreation Sites and Trails BC branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development is closing its campgrounds and amenities where there is an increased likelihood of close contact with frequently touched surfaces, including toilets, kiosks, ticket booths, overnight shelters and day-use shelters.
RSTBC day-use shelters, backcountry cabins, warming huts, ticket booths at snowmobile areas and other built facilities have also been closed.
Backcountry trails will remain open, but maintenance services, including grooming, have been suspended. Trail users are encouraged to use local facilities and not travel for recreation purposes.
Further afield, all Parks Canada facilities, including those at Jasper National Park, are also closed with all visitor services and all motor vehicle access by visitors is suspended until further notice.
