Access to the Mont-rebei gorge from the municipality of Àger remains open to the public, allowing enjoyment of this natural space. This was confirmed by the mayor of Àger, Mireia Burgués. On August 7th, a rock and earthslide forced the closure of the Montfalcó walkways, preventing entry to the gorge from the Aragonese side.
The activation of level 4 of the Alfa Plan due to extreme forest fire risk in Montsec led to a ban on pedestrian access to the gorge, resulting in a decrease in tourist numbers. However, even outside these periods, a decline in visitors has been observed, possibly due to high temperatures. Burgués suggests the need to adapt to climate change to attract hikers in less hot months like October or November. The access ban from Aragon has made the gorge less crowded, allowing visitors a better experience.
Companies specializing in active tourism and nature activities have not suffered significant impact from the temporary access closure to Montsec. Flight schools in Àger have been able to continue operating with certain restrictions, such as the use of radios and limitations on hours and capacity. Kayaking companies have also been able to navigate the gorge, despite the impossibility of pedestrian access.
Mayor Mireia Burgués has expressed her complaint about the lack of coordination between the governments of Catalonia and Aragon regarding the activation of level 4 of the Alfa Plan. The inconsistency in applying restrictions between the two territories causes confusion among the public about accessible areas.
When level 4 of the Alfa Plan is activated due to extreme forest fire risk, extraordinary measures are implemented in the affected municipalities. These may include restricting access to protected natural areas and high-frequented forest zones, except for residents and essential services, as well as limiting some nature activities to protect people and reduce fire risk.
