Signage 101: Wayfinding signs and directional arrows

What’s the difference?

Wayfinding signs are meant to guide and inform users that they are on section of the Trans Canada Trail as designated and recognized by Trans Canada Trail.

Directional arrow signs are used in conjunction with Wayfinders at Trail decision points, this type of signage indicates the correct route for users to take while travelling along the Trans Canada Trail.

 

Trans Canada Trail’s sign location/wayfinding recommendations are simple and straightforward, and will ensure consistency along the entire Trail network.

Placement recommendations:

  • Signs with the Trans Canada Trail logo should be installed facing each direction of travel at every decision point.
  • Decision points include trail intersections, railway crossings, bridge crossings and significant changes in direction.
  • A minimum of two signs should be posted at every decision point, one for each direction of travel.
  • Signs with the Trans Canada Trail logo should be installed facing each direction of travel at intervals of no more than one kilometre.
  • Trail partners are encouraged to post signs with the Trans Canada Trail logo alongside, below or above any existing kilometres markers. If there are no markers present, groups are encouraged to place Trans Canada Trail signs in lieu of kilometer markers.
  • Trans Canada Trail directional arrows should be installed below the Trans Canada Trail signs to indicate the direction of the Trans Canada Trail, except when Trail route proceeds in the same direction.
  • Where possible, sidewalks and shared-use urban road routes should be signed in the same manner.
  • Due to the varied nature of Trail routes across Canada, there are exceptions when it comes to: Road cycling routes, water routes and Trail sections in remote areas.

Trail partners interested in designing a customized signage system are encouraged wot work with Trans Canada Trail staff to develop a suitable alternative signage plan. Trans Canada Trail’s Signage Manager is available to provide technical assistance and consult with provincial or territorial government authorities in designing customized signage on roadways.

Sign options

Standard and bilingual signs: Our standard and bilingual wayfinding signs and directional arrows can be ordered year-round and are provided FREE OF CHARGE! These signs are highly durable, guaranteed not to fade for at least 10 years and are graffiti-resistant, making them easy to clean, if necessary.

Co-branded signs: Trans Canada Trail provides funding for co-branded signs at a rate of 50% of the total cost. Co-branded signs provide municipalities and local trail groups the opportunity to have a simplified wayfinding signage, which includes both a local logo and the Trans Canada Trail logo. High resolution logo art must be provided to Trans Canada Trail for the production of all co-branded signs.

Please consult our Signage Best Practices Guidelines before requesting via our online submission form. If you have any questions, contact us at signage@tctrail.ca.

Signage 101