The Board of Directors of Trans Canada Trail (TCT) applauded the initiative of the BC and Alberta governments to support a new recreational trail running from Fernie, BC to Banff, Alberta. The new trail, when developed, will form an important part of the Trans Canada Trail and will finally close a 250-kilometre gap on the Trail between the two provinces.

“This is one of the most spectacular sections of the Rocky Mountains and will be a major tourist draw,” said Deborah Apps, TCT President and CEO. “This will be a destination trail and one of the major highlights on the Trans Canada Trail. We look forward to working with the BC and Alberta government representatives, provincial and local trail groups, and Elk Valley Coal and Tembec which have land use rights in the area, to help move forward with this trail as quickly as possible.”

Building a recreational trail through this area has been a goal of local trail groups and Trans Canada Trail for almost a decade. There have been extensive discussions over the years with the two governments, landowners and the coal company about the feasibility of the Trans Canada Trail going through the area.

Last July, a group of 40 people including senior BC tourism officials, coal company managers, Trans Canada Trail staff, Trails BC and Alberta TrailNet officials and other trail stakeholders took part in a 4-day cycling trip across the Rockies to explore the area and consider a possible route for the Trail. The arduous trek began in Elkford, crossed Elk Pass then ascended through Kananaskis Country to Banff.

Al Skucas, President of Trails BC and the organizer of the trip, said it was a real success in building support for the Fernie to Banff trail. “This trip confirmed to all the participants the importance of determining a route for the Trans Canada Trail through the area, given its magnificent landscape and breathtaking views.”

Peter Barr, President of Alberta TrailNet, said, “The announcement is a cause for celebration not only for the trail groups and communities that are involved today but for the many Canadians and international visitors who will use this trail in the future. We hope to see a world class cycling trail, suitable for families and friends who want to connect with nature and share one of the most spectacular experiences of a lifetime.”