OTTAWA, June 01, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — In anticipation of International Trails Day, Trans Canada Trail is honoring and assisting the volunteers who maintain Canada's extensive trail network. The national charity has allocated $303,200 in funding to 119 community initiatives through its annual Trail Care Grant Program this year.
Each year, countless volunteers across the nation dedicate their time, effort, and local expertise to ensure sections of the Trans Canada Trail remain safe, accessible, and inviting. Now in its seventh year, the Trail Care Grant Program offers direct support to local trail organizations, funding volunteer-driven activities such as trail cleanups, repairs, tree planting, seasonal upkeep, and volunteer training and appreciation events.
Volunteers: The Backbone of Canada's Trails
As Canadians prepare to observe International Trails Day on Saturday, June 6, the program underscores the vital role volunteers play in sustaining the country's trail network—from urban pathways and rural rail trails to remote wilderness routes and community gathering spaces.
“We are incredibly grateful for the thousands of volunteers who help sustain Canada’s trails,” said Stacey Dakin, Chief Program Officer at Trans Canada Trail. “We are proud to support the local organizations and dedicated volunteers who care for the Trail every day. Their work strengthens communities, improves access to the outdoors, and helps ensure that people across the country can experience the benefits of safe, welcoming, and well-maintained trails.”
Supporting Local Communities
Stretching nearly 30,000 kilometers from coast to coast to coast, the Trans Canada Trail is a national endeavor with local foundations. Each segment of the Trail is managed locally, and community groups and volunteers are crucial in maintaining and enhancing the Trail to meet local needs.
As a national sector leader, Trans Canada Trail collaborates with trail groups, municipalities, Indigenous communities, and partners to provide funding, tools, education, and support for projects that bolster Canada's trail sector. The Trail Care Grant Program is one of the ways the organization helps local groups build volunteer capacity and implement practical improvements that benefit trail users and communities.
Generous Support from Partners
This year’s Trail Care Grant Program is generously supported by Athletic Brewing Company, Columbia Sportswear, Eldorado Gold, TC Energy, and the Toyota Canada Fund for Trail Sustainability.
2026 Trail Care Grants by Province and Territory
- Alberta: $24,500
- British Columbia: $24,500
- Manitoba: $19,500
- New Brunswick: $25,000
- Newfoundland and Labrador: $15,000
