The NCC is closing Gatineau Park due to the COVID-19 pandemic

OTTAWA -- Gatineau Park is closing due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The National Capital Commission says “to limit the spread of COVID-19 and reduce risks to employees and visitors”, Gatineau Park will close Monday night until further notice.

UPDATE | To limit the spread of COVID-19 and reduce risk to employees & visitors, #GatineauPark will be closed as of 9pm Mon, March 23, until further notice.

⛔Parking lots & day shelters closed
❄️End of winter activities for the season
More: https://t.co/6mLPgrMRRP | #ottnews pic.twitter.com/l89CMWEtRC

— Gatineau Park (@NCC_GatPark) March 23, 2020

The move means all cross-country ski trails, snowshoe trails and campsites are closed to the public. All grooming operations of cross-country ski trails will end for the season.

Parking lots and day shelters will be closed.

The move comes after Quebec public health officials urged people to cancel non-essential trips and gatherings.

The NCC says “we know this news will come as a disappointment to many but, in light of COVID-19, the continued operation of Gatineau Park would risk jeopardizing public health, including the safety of users, NCC staff and personnel, and the residents of neighbouring municipalities.”