Thank you to the TCT Trail Builders

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

Margaret Mead

The Come Walk With Us #Hike4Birds across Canada on the Trans Canada Trail, covering 19,000 km from the Atlantic to the Pacific to the Arctic, has often been described as an unsupported trek. Yet the realities are that along every step of the way, we have been supported by Canadians, communities and the countless volunteers who built this amazing network of pathways from coast to coast to coast. The success of this national hike with the goal of exploring and sharing the country are the result of people supporting other people. Beyond Canada’s natural wonders, terrific diversity of wildlife, and amazing bird species it has been our privilege to meet with, walk alongside, and be helped by so many Canadians. We have met and talked with countless amazing people and seen firsthand that despite our differences, varied backgrounds, cultures, beliefs, faiths and perspectives, we could nonetheless share our love of this nation and have a dialogue.

It is a simple fact that we might not have completed even a single province without the overwhelming generosity, kindness and encouragement of people from across Canada.

Trail Builders, Community Dedication and National Dreams

At its heart, Canada is a country that more often than we realize undertakes seemingly impossible projects and succeeds. Ventures such as the Rideau Canal, the Canadian-Pacific railway, the construction of the St. Lawrence Seaway, the Trans-Canada Highway, the Churchill Falls Hydroelectric Project, and the building of the Confederation Bridge all began with a dream. The same is true of the Sentier Transcanadien, which reflects the inspiring vision of having an off-road non-motorized trail across the nation for people to safely explore their communities, provinces and country along.

While only a few individuals have had the privilege and opportunity to trek large sections of the Trans Canada Trail, the ability to do so is a reflection of the dedication and passion of thousands of trail builders and volunteers. These individuals have given their time and energy toward ensuring that Canadians can explore nature and set out on pathways to see what is over the next hill. Behind every step, every kilometre, and every section of the Trans Canada Trail, there is a dedicated group of individuals whose hard work and unwavering commitment have made this national treasure possible. Some people that we have met have literally dedicated years to getting a kilometre or two of the trail built and off-road.

 

The Trans Canada Trail is a testament to the spirit of community, connection, and perseverance. Stretching over 28,000 kilometres, from the shores of the Atlantic to the vast expanses of the Pacific and the Arctic, this trail is more than just a path – it is a lifeline that unites Canadians from all walks of life. Whether it's the joy of a hiker, the peaceful solitude of a cyclist, or the thrill of a cross-country skier, the hard work of volunteers has created a sanctuary for all who seek to experience the beauty and diversity of our country. From the rugged coastline of the Atlantic, the vast landscapes of the Prairies, through the towering Rockies, to the remote beauty of the Arctic, this trail is a symbol of unity, exploration, and connection.

 Each section of the trail represents countless hours of planning, building, and maintaining. From the quiet forest paths to the wide, open prairies, the communities along the route are touched by a legacy built by Canadians. The work and dedication of volunteers has been and continue to be remarkable, and the contributions made over the years have left an indelible mark on the nation. Trail builders have not only constructed a physical trail, but they have also forged connections between people and places, cities and the countryside and provinces.

The impact of your work reaches far beyond just those who use the trail. You have provided a space for people to discover the wonders of Canada’s natural landscapes, to learn about our history, and to engage with the land in ways that inspire curiosity, conservation and sustainability. Your efforts ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to walk, cycle, and explore the diverse geographies, cultures and histories that make this country so unique.

Thank you to the trail builders, trail volunteers, and trail angels who have made the Trans Canada Trail.

Thank you!

While we were the ones who walked across the country, we could never have done it without the support of so many. Thank you to those who supported us en route, who met us, shared a kind word, walked with us. Thank you to those who donated to help us finance this trek and to those who invited us into their homes for a night’s reprieve. Thank you to the Royal Canadian Geographical Society for transforming our humble outreach into a recognized RCGS Expedition and for making our Story Map possible.

Thank you to the multitude of nature groups, school classrooms, and community organizations that invited us to share our experiences through our presentation on Conserving Canada’s birds. Thank you to the staff of the Great Trail, who were amazing supporters of our undertaking and sought to help share our photographs and story with so many more Canadians.

Thank you to our family for being so patient and understanding with a daughter who put her professional career on hold and sold her house to undertake an impossible adventure to share Canada with Canadians. Finally, thank you to every person whose donations, whose passions and whose efforts have helped build the Trans Canada Trail over the years – without your tireless efforts as trail builders, we could never have undertaken any of this.

“If everyone in the world took care of each other the way folks do out on the trail, and if everyone approached each day with as much hope and optimism as hikers do, the world would be a better place.”

Jon Tullis

See you on the trail!