Celebrating the Opening of the Onishkatoon Gwaykaadiziwin Trail
On Saturday, June 20, years of collaboration, dedication and community spirit came together as Trans Canada Trail and the South Whiteshell Trail Association (SWTA) welcomed partners, donors, volunteers and community members to Falcon Trails Resort to celebrate the opening of the new Onishkatoon Gwaykaadiziwin Trail.
The event marked an important milestone in a longstanding partnership between Trans Canada Trail and the SWTA, who have worked to enhance trail experiences in the region, creating places where residents and visitors can connect with nature while supporting active transportation, recreation and local tourism. It was also a celebration of the people whose shared commitment has created new ways for trail users to experience the Whiteshell – and the Trans Canada Trail in the region.
Photo credit: Keely Middleton (kbphoto)
About the Onishkatoon Gwaykaadiziwin Trail
The Onishkatoon Gwaykaadiziwin Trail completes a 38-kilometre loop around Falcon Lake. Designed for both hikers and cyclists, the Trail section provides users with a scenic route that showcases the area’s forests, lakes and rugged Canadian Shield landscape.
A day of celebration
Celebration attendees recognized the collaborative effort behind the project. Supporters of both Trans Canada Trail and SWTA were joined by Jane Pepino, Board Chair of the Trans Canada Trail Foundation, members of Trans Canadas Trail staff, and many more.
Remarks were shared by Gilles Boulley and Gary Turnbull with the South Whiteshell Trail Association; Mathieu Roy, CEO of Trans Canada Trail; and Mike Paterson with The Asper Foundation, a longtime supporter of Trans Canada Trail and supporter of this project.
A highlight of the morning was the unveiling of the concept drawings for the future trailhead pavilion, which will provide visitors with a welcoming starting point for their adventures.
Photo credit: Keely Middleton (kbphoto)
“It was a wonderful day to celebrate the people and the steps forward on the journey towards the opening of this beautiful new trail,” says Gary. “It has been a dream for decades to develop a Trans Canada Trail link through this rugged and diverse terrain that was not previously accessible. The dream became a journey that started 7 years ago with concept planning and consultation. Now SWTA is looking forward to building a trailhead pavilion with interpretive signage and maps to educate and prepare visitors for a spectacular adventure on Onishkatoon Gwaykaadiziwin Trail.”
Following the ceremony, attendees headed out to experience the new Trail section! Guests headed out on a guided bike ride, group hike, or pontoon boat tour, showcasing the many ways people can connect with this special place. These trail experiences were a fitting way to celebrate the project, and attendees expressed their appreciation for the real-life introduction to the Trail section.
Building trails through partnership
By working together, Trans Canada Trail and SWTA have helped create a trail that will serve the community for years to come. Residents and visitors alike can now enjoy greater access to the region’s spectacular landscapes while exploring a trail that strengthens connections throughout the broader network.
Photo credit: Keely Middleton (kbphoto)
Thank you to the project’s donors
This project would not have been possible without the generosity of its supporters.
Trans Canada Trail and the SWTA extend sincere thanks to Gail Asper and Mike Paterson, as well as The Asper Foundation, for their leadership and commitment to making the Onishkatoon Gwaykaadiziwin Trail a reality.
Gail Asper shared that Falcon Lake holds a special place in her family’s heart – a place filled with cherished memories, time in nature, and moments of peace. Their generous contribution will help ensure this beloved trail continues to inspire and connect generations of visitors for years to come.
“It was inspiring to see so many people come together to celebrate the opening of the Onishkatoon Gwaykaadiziwin Trail. This trail represents the power of partnership and shared investment in outdoor spaces that strengthen communities and connect people with the natural beauty around them. We are proud to have been part of bringing this vision to life,” says Mathieu Roy.
Photo credit: Keely Middleton (kbphoto)
To learn more about the Onishkatoon Gwaykaadiziwin Trail and plan your visit, check out Trans Canada Trail’s interactive map.
Main photo credit: Keely Middleton (kbphoto)
