New trail partnership strengthens tourism and regional connectivity on Newfoundland’s Great Northern Peninsula

Trans Canada Trail welcomes the Great Northern Trail, a key segment of the regional Great Coastal Trail, into its national network

A new partnership connecting local, regional and national trail networks is set to bolster tourism, economic development and community connectivity on Newfoundland and Labrador’s Great Northern Peninsula. 

Nearly 200 kilometres of the Great Northern Trail, part of the peninsula’s Great Coastal Trail initiative, have joined the Trans Canada Trail network. This marks a significant milestone for the ongoing efforts to develop the region as a world-class trail destination. 

“This partnership has helped bring national recognition to the work taking place on the Great Northern Peninsula,” says Erika Pardy, Executive Director of the Great Coastal Trail Authority. “The Great Northern Trail represents years of dedication and effort, and its inclusion in the Trans Canada Trail network speaks not only to that foundation, but to the broader vision being advanced through the Great Coastal Trail. Ryan Patey [President of the Great Northern Trail Association] and his team have truly elevated the hiking experience here on the GNP. Together, this alignment reinforces the significance of the project and its role in positioning the region as a connected and emerging coastal destination.” 

Building on years of work by the Great Northern Trail Association, the Great Northern Trail’s inclusion in the nearly 30,000-kilometre Trans Canada Trail network recognizes the strength of the region’s trail system, its volunteer base and its deep community roots. With coastal routes, community-connected paths and wilderness experiences in the St. Anthony Basin area, the Great Northern Trail is a key segment within the regional Great Coastal Trail vision for a coastal network of more than 850 kilometres that connects 60+ communities. 

“What started as a few friends sitting in my garage, talking about how we could make our hometown trails better, has grown into a shared regional vision for more than 250 kilometres of managed trails at the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula,” says Patey. “Through the support of our communities, members, volunteers and partners, we have helped create a valuable regional asset that supports tourism, strengthens economic opportunity and improves quality of life through meaningful outdoor recreation. Locals and visitors now have the opportunity to explore our backyard and discover what is so great about the Great Northern Peninsula.  

“The Great Northern Trail’s inclusion in the Trans Canada Trail network, while aligning with the broader Great Coastal Trail vision, brings this work to a new level and helps carry that vision forward provincially and nationally. It is a proud moment for GNTA and for every member, volunteer, community and partner who helped bring this trail network to life.” 

Partners in the Trans Canada Trail network can access funding opportunities, education and professional development resources, national visibility and connections with trail organizations across the country. These supports help groups across the country develop, maintain and enhance trails in ways that reflect community priorities while contributing to a connected national trail network. 

“Throughout the country we’ve seen that trails are powerful drivers of tourism and economic development. They help communities welcome visitors, support local businesses and create lasting connections nature and one another,” says Mathieu Roy, Trans Canada Trail’s Chief Executive Officer. “We are thrilled to welcome the Great Northern Trail to the Trans Canada Trail network and to recognize the years of local leadership, stewardship and volunteer effort that made this trail what it is today. We look forward to an ongoing partnership with local partners to continue developing the impact of trails in the region.” 

The milestone will be celebrated on June 6, 2026, International Trails Day, during Great Northern Trail Race Day, hosted by the Great Northern Trail Association and Great Coastal Trail in partnership with Trans Canada Trail. 

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Media Contact

Justin Fauteux
Manager, Communications
Trans Canada Trail
jfauteux@tctrail.ca

About the Great Coastal Trail Authority

The Great Coastal Trail will be a more-than 850-kilometre long network of trails along the salt-scoured coastline of the Great Northern Peninsula. Passing through communities and landmarks, the trail network will generate tourism and enhance economic development throughout the region. 

About the Great Northern Trail Association

The Great Northern Trail Association Inc.(GNTA) is a dynamic not-for-profit organization driven by passionate volunteers committed to enhancing our community’s outdoor experience. 

Stretching over 200 km, the Great Northern Trail Network invites you to explore a rugged coastline shaped by wind, waves, and history. This evolving network of trails, built in collaboration with coastal communities along Newfoundland and Labrador’s Northern Coast, blends newly built paths, restored heritage routes, and remote backcountry treks into a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. 

About Trans Canada Trail

The Trans Canada Trail is the longest multi-use trail system in the world and it is always growing. It reaches every province and territory and connects all three of Canada’s coastlines. Each section of the Trans Canada Trail is managed locally and supports different activities and community needs. 

Trans Canada Trail is the organization that advocates for, stewards and champions Canada’s nationwide trail system. It is a registered charity that receives funding from the Government of Canada (through Parks Canada), various provincial and municipal governments, and generous donors.