Nova Scotia Trails Federation
(Kathy Gurholt Photo)
An organized trail movement in Nova Scotia began in April 1987 when over 80 people representing trail users and providers gathered for a three day Trails for Tomorrow Conference in Halifax. It was organized by Colin Stewart who had a vision for trail development in the province. Hosted by Nordic Ski Nova Scotia, the Halifax Field Naturalists and the Canadian Hostelling Association, the conference brought together outdoors people from government, landowners, trail providers and user groups. The resulting Trails Task Force established the Nova Scotia Trails Federation.
The Nova Scotia Trails Federation began as an entirely volunteer effort with support provided by the Nova Scotia Sport and Recreation Commission. It includes groups from diverse areas such as snowmobilers, Nordic skiers and motorcyclists
The Nova Scotia Trails Federation is the provincial wing of the Trans Canada Trail Committee formed in the summer of 1993. There is a two-phase approach:
- Phase One: the routing between North Sydney and the New Brunswick border with the Tatamagouche-Halifax connection.
- Phase Two: Halifax down around the South Shore/Annapolis Valley loop connecting with Phase One at Truro.
Former railways, abandoned roads and newly-created trails are growing into a network of trails to work and play and enable us to experience treasures such as historical points of interest, ecologically unique areas, and scenic vistas while providing opportunities for active living and sharing quality time with family and friends.
All of Nova Scotia salutes these foresighted outdoors people and we all look forward to a continued common heritage enjoying Nova Scotia’s natural beauty.
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