Protecting Our Trails

The East Coast Trail along the rugged Atlantic coast of Newfoundland and Labrador is more than a scenic hiking route, it is a living example of grassroots climate action.

The East Coast Trail Association (ECTA) is a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to protecting, maintaining, and promoting the long-term sustainability of this 336-kilometre network of trails. One of their most impactful initiatives is the Trail Raiser Community Hike, an annual fundraising and awareness event aimed at mobilizing volunteers, raising essential funds, and promoting sustainable outdoor recreation.

The Trail Raiser is more than a fundraiser; it’s a climate action movement that unites hikers, volunteers, and environmental advocates in a shared mission to protect and sustain the East Coast Trail. It models how communities can mobilize around climate resilience and environmental stewardship. Participants hike designated sections of the trail while raising funds to support maintenance efforts, trail repairs, and climate adaptation projects. Volunteers organize logistics, lead outreach, and ensure the event runs smoothly. The result is a community-powered initiative that sustains a beloved public resource and educates participants about sustainable outdoor practices and the tangible impacts of climate change.

Last year, the Trail Raiser exceeded its fundraising goal by raising over $103,000. It engaged 91 unique volunteers, 41 of whom returned for multiple outings, and directly supported restoration projects that improved trail safety and resilience. These outcomes are impressive, especially considering the ongoing challenges of volunteer retention and unpredictable weather. ECTA has responded with flexible planning and stronger partnerships, allowing the project to evolve and become more inclusive.

The success of the Trail Raiser offers valuable lessons far beyond Newfoundland. In the Ottawa-Champlain region, we face our own environmental pressures. Climate change manifests through increased flooding, heatwaves, and stress on rural and urban natural spaces. Whether it's the forests of Gatineau Park, the Ottawa Greenbelt, or riverfront trails in our urban core, these landscapes are vital for biodiversity, recreation, and mental well-being. They also require active care to remain healthy and accessible.

The model established by the East Coast Trail Association can inspire similar efforts across our region. Residents, nature groups, and community organizations can take action by organizing trail clean-ups, adopting sections of the trail, or hosting educational hikes that promote low-impact practices. Environmental organizations like Ecology Ottawa, the Ottawa Valley Chapter of the Bruce Trail Conservancy, Ottawa River Keeper, Friends of Gatineau Park, and others are already doing important work, and they rely on volunteers and donors to keep their initiatives going.

Even if you're not in Newfoundland, you can support the Trail Raiser remotely by donating or organizing a solidarity hike in your area. More importantly, this is an opportunity to reflect on how we care for the natural spaces closest to us. Our trails, rivers, forests, and parks are part of the same planetary system facing climate disruption. By taking action locally, we contribute to a broader conservation and environmental responsibility culture.

Stories like the Trail Raiser remind us that meaningful climate action often begins with a single step. When people come together with a shared purpose, the results ripple outward: stronger communities, healthier ecosystems, and a deeper connection to the places we call home.

To learn more about the East Coast Trail Association or support the upcoming Trail Raiser Community Hike, visit https://eastcoasttrail.com. 

Let’s protect what we love—together, one trail at a time.