5 February, 2026

Trans Canada Trail at the 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference

A city scape including a bridge and a group of green, leafy trees in the foreground

From February 17 to 19, 2026, the 2026 International Indigenous Tourism Conference (IITC) is taking place in Edmonton, Alberta. Hosted by the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), the three-day event brings together tourism professionals, industry and community leaders, entrepreneurs and partners from across Canada and around the world who are dedicated to promoting and celebrating the richness of Indigenous tourism. IITC is the largest conference of its kind in the world, and features keynote speakers, engaging workshops, cultural experiences and much more.

Trans Canada Trail is a proud partner of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada, working to link Indigenous experiences and trails, grow Indigenous tourism, and enhance the capacity and knowledge of trail operators across Canada.

Mathieu Roy, Trans Canada Trail’s CEO, and Kristen Gabora, Trans Canada Trail’s Director, Partner Services and Support, will be attending the conference. “Attending the International Indigenous Tourism Conference is an important opportunity for us to listen, learn and build stronger relationships with Indigenous tourism leaders, partners and communities,” says Mathieu.

Photo credit: Jennifer Mahon

Exploring Treaty 6 Territory

Edmonton, or Amiskwacîwâskahikan, is located on Treaty 6 Territory, home to many nations including the Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Sioux and Métis People. Edmonton is home to the second-largest Indigenous population in Canada, and Indigenous experiences abound in the city.

Located approximately an hour and a half drive from Edmonton, Métis Crossing, located along the Iron Horse Trail, offers cultural exhibits, outdoor activities, self-guided tours and more, dedicated to showcasing Métis culture and history.

Right in downtown Edmonton, Tawatinâ is a pedestrian bridge running under a LRT line. When you’re crossing the bridge, be sure to look up! You’ll spot over 400 Indigenous artworks. Plus, take in the beautiful views of urban parkland and the water below. Tawatinâ can be found along the Amisk Wacîw Mêskanaw Beaver Hill Road – City of Edmonton section of the Trans Canada Trail.

A concrete pedestrian bridge. Guardrails are on both sides and the overpass is decorated with several small art pieces.