ABOUT US

The National Hiking Trail of Canada (also known as Hike Canada en Marche) is a unique and ambitious project dedicated to creating and promoting a Coast-to-Coast-to-Coast network of hiking trails across Canada. Our vision is to encourage hiking networks throughout Canada, with a focus on well-maintained long-distance trails, providing Canadians and visitors with access to the country’s diverse regions, their natural beauty, and their cultural heritage. We believe in facilitating a form of exercise that is both physically and mentally beneficial.

Our Philosophy:

We operate on the philosophy that local clubs build and care for their sections of the trail, which then link together to form this expansive network. This approach encourages people to explore and enjoy Canada’s outdoors while actively protecting natural areas.

Key Principles and Values:

• Environmental Stewardship: Preserving the natural wilderness, including its wild beauty, open spaces, magnificent vistas, and clean air.
• Sustainability: Nurturing community support for ongoing trail maintenance through charitable giving, government funding, and advocating for legislation.
• Access and Inclusion: Protecting public access by keeping trails open, free, and available to all who respect hiking etiquette. We promote trails that are separate from motorized vehicles whenever possible and recognize that hiking in nature should be inclusive of all ages, socioeconomic backgrounds, and ethnicities.
• Responsibility: Encouraging hikers to leave the environment undisturbed, advocating for trail structures that protect the environment from user impacts, and ensuring the safety of trail users.
• Safety: Prioritizing safety in all policies, standards, signage, training, and work practices.
• Signature Trails: Recognizing the value of designated “Signature Trails” that offer unique and memorable experiences reflecting their location’s cultural and natural landscape.

Our Mission:

By collaborating with local groups, our mission is to promote the development and utilization of a Canada-wide network of hiking trails that showcases Canada’s natural beauty and cultural heritage, while also fostering physical and mental well-being through outdoor activities.

The National Hiking Trail was officially launched in Ottawa in 1987, stemming from a 1971 meeting of national outdoor organizations with the slogan “Towards a Foot Trail across Canada.” We are continually working to connect existing natural-surface pedestrian trail systems with parklands and wild places, bringing this long-held vision to reality, one piece at a time.