Become a Trail Steward

Each segment of trail that makes up the Trans Canada Trail network has a "Trail Steward". A steward is an organization which accepts the responsibility of developing and maintaining the trail. A steward is sometimes the owner of the property through which the trail runs (such as a city – the city owns the land, and its Parks department becomes the steward). However, many trails run through private and crown property. In this case, a local trails organization will negotiate with the landowner to become the trail steward. In turn, the landowner agrees to recognize the trail, and in our case, allows it to be designated as part of the Trans Canada Trail.

What's in it for the steward? In addition to the prestige of being part of a national trail network, stewards can apply for funds from Trans Canada Trail to improve their trail by adding facilities, improving surfaces, upgrading signage as well as many other perks.

Why does the Trans Canada Trail need more stewards? The Trans Canada Trail is still being developed across British Columbia. Many of our proposed routes have been identified and mapped – however, many do not have a Trail Steward in place that will oversee the development, upgrades and maintenance of these segments of the Trans Canada Trail. Many trails travel through private property – approvals to designate the trail needs to be negotiated with landowners.

The following areas require a Trail Steward:

  • Nelson Area (Glade to Balfour)
  • Elko Area (Wardner to Fernie)
  • Fernie Area (Coal Discovery Trail)
  • Upper Elk Valley (Sparwood to Elkford)
  • Dawson Creek
  • Fort St. John
  • Fort Nelson

Trails organizations and individuals are encouraged to contact Trails BC if they are interested in becoming a Trail Steward for any portion of the Trans Canada Trail – especially the ones listed above. If you do not belong to an organization, contact us – we can suggest one to join in your local area, or you can join Trails BC to steward the trail in your area.