TRANS CANADA TRAIL AND DESTINATION CANADA UNITE TO BOOST ADVENTURE AND NATURE TOURISM SECTOR

Trans Canada Trail, which represents the longest recreational trail network in the world, and Destination Canada have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to further boost Canada’s appeal to international travellers looking for adventure and nature tourism holidays.

The signing of the MoU by Trans Canada Trail, steward of the world’s longest recreational trail network, and Destination Canada, the countries tourist board, in October marks the two organisations’ commitment to work together and share expertise to support the development of trail destinations across the country.

A first-of-its-kind national initiative, the MoU is focused on sharing resources, knowledge and expertise, including identifying opportunities and maximising connections with destinations and communities.

The announcement is a first step in creating a long-term relationship that enhances Canada’s trail network and will ultimately generate wealth and well-being and enrich the lives of local communities as well as visitors.

“Today’s partnership between Destination Canada and Trans Canada Trail is a win for Canadians and international visitors,” said the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Tourism and Associate Minister of Finance during the MoU ceremony in Vancouver.

“As the home to the longest trail network in the world, Canada is uniquely positioned to meet the growing demand for outdoor experiences and sustainable tourism offerings. Our recreational trail network connects our communities together, fueling economic growth and promoting healthy lifestyles. Thank you to everyone who helped make this happen. I look forward to seeing the results of this partnership in the months and years to come,” he told.

Trails help stimulate Canadians’ well-being

“We are incredibly proud to partner with Destination Canada for this first-of-its kind initiative, to elevate Canada’s trail network to the significant asset that it is, and to collaborate with both Destination Canada and Minister Boissonnault in driving the renaissance of tourism in Canada post-pandemic in a way that is sustainable and meaningful for local communities,” explained Eleanor McMahon, president and CEO, Trans Canada Trail.

“Our research tells us that trails are vital in supporting the well-being of Canadians, and that trails tourism is an under-leveraged opportunity in Canada. We have a tremendous opportunity to activate Canada’s trail-based tourism economy, supporting job creation, economic development in local communities and regenerative tourism.”

“Trails that engage travellers across the country – from city seawalls to spectacular wilderness – are a critical component of our visitor economy. Not only do they connect people from coast to coast to coast, they support the sustainable development of communities, generate fulfilling jobs, protect our natural assets, and strengthen our understanding of Canada,” added Marsha Walden, President and CEO, Destination Canada. “We are thrilled to be collaborating with Trans Canada Trail to share knowledge and seize opportunities. I am confident, together, we can help bolster Canada’s global tourism competitiveness, while generating wealth and well-being for our communities and enriching the lives of our guests.”

Trans Canada Trail initiated Canada’s first-ever National Trail Tourism Strategy in 2020 for the benefit of all trails and the communities they connect across the country. The Trans Canada Trail links over 15,000 communities from coast to coast to coast across 28,000 kilometres.

Trans Canada Trail facts and figures

• The Trans Canada Trail spans over 28,000 km across land and water, across every province and territory.
• 80% of Canadians live within 30 minutes of a Trail section.
• Since the onset of COVID, trail use increased by close to 50%
• 95% of Canadians say their increased use boosts their mental and physical health