Magical Moments and a Lasting Legacy
“Magical moments happen on the Trail when you least expect them,” says Lynn Dobson.
Whether she’s admiring the leaves as they turn into a rainbow of colours each fall, witnessing a surprise marriage proposal or seeing hundreds of people gather on the Trail to support members of their community, Lynn has experienced many memorable moments on the Trans Canada Trail over the years that still make her smile.
Those experiences have inspired her to help preserve the Trail for others, now and in the future.
A place to recharge
For many years, Lynn and her husband, Peter, have explored sections of the Trans Canada Trail close to their home in Ontario. Whether hiking, running or cycling, she says the Trail is a gift they enjoy in every season.
“The time I spend on the Trail is rejuvenating,” she says. “While exercising is the reason we come out, the benefits of spending time in nature are what keep us coming back.”
Favourite routes and new discoveries
When she wants to take a longer ride on the Trans Canada Trail, Lynn cycles from Elora to the Forks of the Credit using the Elora Cataract Trailway, Caledon Trail Link and Caledon Trailway.
“This beautiful route takes you through quiet residential streets, farm fields and forested areas,” she says. “It is a perfect way to spend a day out in nature.”
Closer to home, Lynn often hikes or cycles the Caledon Trailway from Cheltenham to Caledon East.
“I’ve even come across sections of the Trans Canada Trail while travelling in the Yukon, on the West Coast and on the East Coast,” says Lynn. “I relish the fact that it is all across Canada and available to everyone. Whether people are using a wheelchair, cycling, pushing a stroller, riding on horseback, walking, running or hiking, it’s great to see that these are all welcome activities on different sections of the Trail.”
Why trails matter to Lynn
“Trails are really important to me and I want to help protect green spaces and encourage people to spend time in nature so they can benefit as much as I have,” she says.
Lynn has supported Trans Canada Trail for over 20 years and, this year, became a monthly donor as well.
“Being on the Trail means freedom from daily chores, social media, TV and politics. I can embrace just being,” says Lynn. “Putting one foot in front of the other is invigorating, and all you have to do is enjoy your time in nature. You can smell the fragrant shrubs and flowers, take in the beauty of farm fields, and hear water flowing through creeks and rushing rivers as you pass by on the Trail.”
Lynn believes access to well-maintained trails is important for individuals, families and communities. She also values how the Trans Canada Trail offers a free or low-cost way for people to enjoy trails and the outdoors.
Photo credit: Kurt Faris
Supporting trails and community connections
In addition to supporting Trans Canada Trail as a donor, Lynn recently joined the organization’s Volunteer Engagement Advisory Committee. By bringing together diverse perspectives, the committee will help shape a practical framework that enables trail groups to better engage volunteers and strengthen their work in communities across the country.
She also volunteers as a board director and hike leader with the Caledon Hills Bruce Trail Club. She loves that, just like the Trans Canada Trail, this trail is easy to access, maintained by volunteers, community-based and community-supported.
Lynn is a volunteer with Bethell Hospice in Inglewood as well and has participated in their Hike for Hospice event that takes place on the Inglewood section of the Trans Canada Trail. The event welcomes 800 walkers to the Trail section in their community and Lynn says that without the Trail, this heartfelt hike would not be the same.
Photo credit: Kurt Faris
A lasting investment in nature
“I recognize that converting old railway tracks into trails and maintaining the Trans Canada Trail requires funding,” says Lynn. “I think Trail users should help fund the work that keeps everything in good condition. I am very happy to be able to use the Trail, so I decided to contribute to it financially.”
Lynn is also looking to the future. By leaving a legacy gift in her will, she intends to support the long-term preservation and enhancement of Canada’s national trail.
“It is only natural that I want to ensure a portion of my estate is given to this charity as a thank you for time well spent,” says Lynn. “Investing in nature provides an awesome return for everyone. Let’s continue to grow, maintain and enhance the Trans Canada Trail for generations to come because it has great value for individuals, communities and the country.”
Lynn’s decision shows how a gift in a will can carry a personal connection to the Trail far into the future. A legacy gift to Trans Canada Trail can help ensure the Trail continues to connect people, communities and nature, creating opportunities for future generations to experience the joy, renewal and connection it provides.
For those whose lives have been enriched by time spent on the Trail, a gift in a will can be a meaningful way to make similar experiences possible for others. Lynn’s story offers an invitation to reflect: What has the Trail made possible in your life, and what could your legacy make possible for future generations?
To learn more about supporting Trans Canada Trail through your estate plans, please contact Danielle Felip (Manager, Development), at dfelip@tctrail.ca or 1-800-465-3636 ext. 4372, or visit https://tctrail.ca/leave-a-gift-in-your-will/ for more information.
