Promoting Recreation and Well-Being Along the Trans Canada Trail
Stories from our Trail Care grant program
In spring 2025, trail groups across Canada came together in their respective communities to help prepare their Trail sections for the upcoming season, raise awareness about the Trail, and promote recreation and well-being, build community connections (and have fun!) as part of our Trail Care grant program, part of the Trail Catalyst Fund.
Two hundred twenty-two groups were awarded funding in 2025, and we’re blown away by the work they’ve accomplished. The Trail Care events highlighted below demonstrate how dedicated volunteers clear trail sections, plant trees, engage their community, create fun opportunities along the Trail, and much more.
Disc golf along the Trail in Outlook, Saskatchewan
Photo credit: Town of Outlook
In Outlook, Saskatchewan, funds from the Trail Care grant program to purchase equipment to prepare and enhance the disc golf course along the Town of Outlook Trail section of the Trans Canada Trail. The group purchased a push mover and a battery-operated weed trimmer, as well as some smaller equipment and safety gear for volunteers to use as they work on the trail. “This disc golf course was developed by a local volunteer group, and its addition will increase traffic on this part of the Trail,” says Kaitlyn Gifford with the Outlook and District Regional Park. The group held an intro to disc golf day along the Trail to encourage people to try the sport and have fun outside — and connect with other members of the community.
A Forest Therapy Trail in Uxbridge, Ontario
Photo credit: Uxbridge Trails Committee
The Township of Uxbridge and the Uxbridge Trails Committee used funds from the Trail Care grant program for a Forest Therapy Trail: they added seven signs directing and encouraging people to connect with nature and enjoy the present moment. The Forest Therapy Trail spans approximately one kilometre of the Trans Canada Trail and continues on to other community trails.
“Two of the volunteer trail committee members are the driving force behind this great project,” says Norine Blyth, Trail Coordinator with the Township of Uxbridge. “We have created a path or trail where people from a wide range of fitness levels can interact with nature, primarily through their senses.”
As the project grew, more people were inspired to get involved, and now the group counts six dedicated volunteers. Trail volunteers also completed the installation of the posts and signs, as well as any necessary trail cleanup. “This is Uxbridge’s first Forest Therapy Trail as part of a growing worldwide trend. The Trail Care funds allowed us to proceed with signage and make this trail a reality,” Norine says.
Improving trails and bringing the community together through the Trail Care grant program
Photo credit: Uxbridge Trails Committee
We’re so grateful for the dedicated volunteers who enhance the Trail, restore and improve wildlife habitat, build momentum in their communities and much more.
Trail Care’s 2026 program is generously supported by Athletic Brewing Company, Columbia Sportswear Canada, Eldorado Gold, TC Energy and Toyota Canada. Stay tuned for more inspiring Trail Care stories in the coming months.
About the Climate Sustainability and Nature fund
Trans Canada Trail’s Climate Sustainability and nature fund helps communities protect, restore and future-proof the Trail. We help fund projects that focus on nature-based solutions, like tree planting and invasive species removal, and offering supports for designing, adapting and building sustainable trails. We work with partners across the country to keep trails safe and resilient for today and future generations.
Learn more about how trail volunteerism contributes to outdoor recreation opportunities and community connections across Canada.
Main photo credit: Town of Outlook
