Developing a trail is more than just clearing a path through the wilderness. It is a journey that begins with an idea, involves planning, consultation, and legislative considerations, and ends in a tangible route for people to explore. In British Columbia, Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) supports this journey, ensuring trails are accessible, sustainable and beneficial to communities.
The trail Idea: where it all begins
Every trail starts with a vision to connect people to the land, enhance recreation, or preserve natural landscapes. Whether it’s a gentle nature walk or a challenging mountain bike trail, the process begins with community input and identifying a need. Trails also honor Indigenous histories, providing an opportunity to weave cultural narratives into the modern experience of outdoor recreation. The next steps involve consultation with First Nations, local communities, and stakeholders. This order reflects the preferred approach to engagement, ensuring First Nations are prioritized in the process. These groups bring unique perspectives, ensuring that the trail meets user needs while respecting cultural and environmental sensitivities. Understanding ecological, cultural, and economic impacts aligns the project with community values and environmental goals.
Planning and legislative framework
Trail planning in B.C. falls under Recreation Sites and Trails B.C., guided by the Forest and Range Practices Act (FRPA). Sections 56 and 57 provide guidelines for managing recreation sites and trails on Crown land. The legislative framework ensures that trail projects respect both the ecological integrity of the land and the interests of the public.
Section 56 of the FRPA allows the Minister to establish, vary, or disestablish recreation trails on Crown land, giving trails official status for development and protection. This designation ensures trails meet government land-use objectives, balancing recreation with ecological preservation and promoting public access while safeguarding sensitive natural areas. The establishment of trails represents a commitment to public enjoyment and environmental stewardship.
Section 57 prohibits unauthorized construction or maintenance of trails on Crown land. Before construction begins, a formal application must be approved by RSTBC. This ensures that trails are safe, accessible, and respectful of ecosystems and cultural sites. The process includes assessing impacts on wildlife, water quality, vegetation, and Indigenous heritage. This step prevents unplanned trail development, which can lead to significant ecological damage.
Construction: from plans to reality
Once approved, construction can begin. Skilled builders use traditional tools and modern equipment to create sustainable trails. Trail building is a blend of art and science, builders must consider the natural contours of the landscape, soil type, and potential for erosion. Techniques like grade reversals, switchbacks, and proper grading help control water flow and reduce erosion, extending the trail's life.
Building a trail involves careful design to ensure user safety, consideration for wildlife corridors, and integration of features that make the trail enjoyable and educational.
Interpretive signs may highlight historical landmarks, plant species, or Indigenous cultural stories, creating an immersive experience that connects users with the land.
RSTBC ensures that construction adheres to sustainability principles, minimizing environmental impact, promoting safety, and ensuring trail longevity. Trails often include interpretive elements, offering insights into the area’s ecological and cultural significance, which fosters a deeper appreciation for the environment.
Protecting the resource:
section 58 and Beyond
After construction, ongoing management is crucial to maintaining the integrity and safety of the trail. Section 58 (Recreation Orders) of FRPA allows the Minister to restrict recreational use to protect resources. Seasonal closures prevent damage during sensitive periods, such as wildlife breeding seasons or times of high erosion risk.
The Forest Recreation Regulation also guides trail maintenance, establishing procedures to manage public use and avoid conflicts. This includes guidelines for trail etiquette, usage limits, and enforcement measures. Regular inspections and maintenance activities address wear and tear and ensure safety features remain in good condition.
Recreation Sites and Trails BC: A guiding partner
Recreation Sites and Trails BC (RSTBC) plays a critical role in trail development, yet there is room to grow in fostering meaningful partnerships with First Nations. While RSTBC should act not only as a guiding partner but as an equal collaborator, this ideal is not always fully realized. The trail development process is most successful when RSTBC engages Indigenous communities as equal partners from the earliest stages of planning through to ongoing maintenance. By deepening this collaboration, RSTBC has an opportunity to better integrate Indigenous knowledge and perspectives, ensuring trails reflect both provincial recreation goals and Indigenous cultural values.
RSTBC's mandate extends from initiating ideas to preserving public recreation opportunities while safeguarding British Columbia’s landscapes. However, strengthening its relationships with First Nations requires more intentionality, transparency, and shared decision-making. With a commitment to continuous improvement, RSTBC can help create trails that are not only functional but culturally significant, environmentally sustainable, and mutually beneficial.
Building more than trails
Trail development is about building connections between people, places, communities, and history. By respecting legislative frameworks and working as equal partners with First
Nations, we create trails that offer more than just recreation but a meaningful engagement with the land. Protecting the environment, respecting Indigenous history, and creating inclusive spaces ensures that trails provide adventure, education, and connection for generations.
Trail building emphasizes both physical construction and intangible benefits by promoting health, providing education, and fostering community pride. Trails become spaces where people can gather, celebrate, and reflect. They become places of learning, preserving and sharing the stories of the land and its people. With careful planning, collaboration, and respect for regulations, the trails we build today will enrich our communities long into the future.
Thomas SchoenThomas Schoen writes a monthly column on trails for the Efteen's Cariboo papers.
