Improved ECTA Signage & Safety

Thursday, December 6, 2012

With increased recognition of and, consequently, visitation to the East Coast Trail, there is a statistical potential of greater risk for a hiker incident on the trail.

With this principle in mind, the Operations Committee of the ECTA has spent the 2012 season improving both safety and signage on the trail. Hikers have noticed and are appreciating the improved signage, judging by comments to our volunteers.

Using our 2012 Tely-Hike raised funds, the ECTA has upgraded the following: a more prominent “Caution” sign was needed at trailheads as well as a greater number of white triangles – or white triangle buoys – or way markers – along the wilderness path. Several hundred such triangles marking the trail have been installed by the crew this autumn.

With safety in mind, a number of black and white stripped posts have also been installed along the trail in various barren high cliff areas. The black and whites are proven to be the most visible stationary marker in fog. Hikers will notice that black and whites have been added for this purpose on all developed paths where needed.

In recognition of trail confusion in the Goulds, the Operations Committee of the ECTA has actioned Shoal Bay Road as well. New signage has been posted at the parking area on Shoal Bay Road to clarify access track mileage to the East Coast Trail where the Spout Path trailhead and the Motion Path trailhead are reached on the coast. The access track is 6.6km long and adds a significant piece to each of those long hikes.

Also, many ECTA self-identification signs have been planted at trailheads alerting hikers to our website and contact information.

Our website has also received attention. The Safety page reminds hikers to be prepared for all possible conditions on this wilderness trail. Hikers are responsible for their own safety and are encouraged to choose a path suited to their ability and the number of daylight hours. Please study the safety tips before setting out for the trail.

Also, familiarize yourself with the trail signage, so you know what to look for.

It is recommended that the hiker purchase and bring along an ECTA map. Please check the trail/path detail pages in case of any current advisorys regarding the path of choice.

Photos:

Top Row: Caution sign; ECTA contact sign; Trailhead sign; Shoal Bay Road access track/Caution sign
Bottom Row: Black & White waymarkers in fog; ECTA tree buoy; ECTA white triangle trail marker

Story and Photos by J. Van Houwelingen