Trans Canada Trail Launches National Study to Take the Pulse of Canada’s Trail Sector
Whether they’re used for a stroll in the park or a daily commute, trails play an important role in communities across Canada. But understanding their full impact has remained a challenge.
Trans Canada Trail is launching a national study to change that, gathering perspectives from across the country to better understand how trails are used, supported and experienced.
The State of the Trail Sector in Canada study is designed to build one of the clearest national pictures to date of how trails function both on the ground and behind the scenes. From governance and funding to stewardship and everyday use, the research will explore the full ecosystem that keeps trails accessible and thriving.
Commissioned by Trans Canada Trail and conducted by UNITY Workforce Strategies, the study includes a short, anonymous survey open to anyone connected to trails — through recreation, work or community involvement. Organizations can share insights on coordination, funding and management, while individuals can reflect on how they access and use trails in their daily lives.
The goal is to bring together perspectives from across the country to develop a more cohesive shared understanding of the sector. Findings will help inform future planning, strengthen policy conversations and support more coordinated growth across Canada’s trail networks.
Canadians are encouraged to take part and help ensure their experiences are reflected in this national snapshot. The survey takes 10-15 minutes to complete and submissions are anonymous.
Those connected to trail organizations, community groups, or outdoor networks are also invited to share the survey widely to help capture a broad range of voices.
