Safety and Emergency Communication at ACC Huts
Most ACC huts are out of cell coverage. Carry a satellite messenger or PLB, and check trail and weather conditions through Parks Canada, BC Parks, or Alberta Parks before you go.
Cell coverage at ACC huts
Most ACC huts are not within cellular coverage. Do not rely on a cell phone for emergency communication in the backcountry. The one main exception is the Elizabeth Parker Hut area, which has nearby pay phones at the Le Relais Day Shelter, a 10-minute walk from the hut.
What to carry
All guests travelling to and from remote huts should carry an emergency communication device such as:
- A satellite messenger (for example, Garmin inReach, Zoleo, ZoleoCe, SPOT)
- A Personal Locator Beacon (PLB)
Know how to use the device before you go.
Weather, trail conditions, and wildlife
ACC huts are spread across Alberta and BC, and trail conditions change throughout the year. We don't have real-time trail updates for every location — check the authoritative source for your hut's area before your trip:
- Parks Canada — for huts in national parks
- BC Parks — for huts in BC provincial parks
- Alberta Parks — for huts in Alberta provincial parks
Choosing a hut that suits your ability
Every hut's dedicated page includes information on trail access, distance, and terrain. If you're unsure whether a hut is right for your group's experience level, contact the reservations team — they can make recommendations based on your plans.
Getting help in an emergency
For life-threatening emergencies, activate your satellite messenger or PLB, or call 911 if you're in cell coverage. For non-emergency questions before or after your trip, contact info@alpineclubofcanada.ca or call (403) 678-3200 during office hours.