There’s something timeless about trails. They are more than just paths cut through forests or etched into mountainsides. Trails connect people, drawing them together and bridging gaps, both literal and figurative.
From ancient footpaths used by Indigenous peoples to the modern recreational trails we enjoy today, these routes weave our communities together, shaping not just where we live, but how we live.
As someone who has spent decades immersed in trail planning and building, I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact trails have on communities like ours here in the Cariboo-Chilcotin. They reflect our relationship with the land, inviting us to explore the landscapes we call home. But beyond their recreational value, trails are critical to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of a community. They shape how we interact with one another and with the world around us.
A pathway to community
Trails naturally bring people together. Whether you’re a mountain biker racing down a singletrack or a family out for a walk, the experience of being on a trail is shared. In Williams Lake, trails like Fox Mountain and Desous Mountain not only attract outdoor enthusiasts from far and wide, but also become gathering places for locals. They create a sense of pride and belonging, fostering a shared appreciation for our surroundings.
Trails often serve as meeting points where generations connect. They’re places where elders and youth come together, where knowledge about the land is passed down, and where new connections are made. In Indigenous communities, trails hold even deeper significance. For thousands of years, they’ve been used for hunting, gathering, and traveling between villages. These trails carry stories, teachings, and traditions that continue to shape the identity of Indigenous peoples.
Economic and environmental impact
Beyond fostering social connections, trails also have a tangible economic impact on local communities. Here in Williams Lake and across British Columbia, trails significantly contribute to the growing tourism industry. Visitors come to ride our trails, hike through our forests, and experience the vast beauty of the Cariboo-Chilcotin. This influx of outdoor enthusiasts drives economic growth, supporting local businesses, accommodations, and services. Trails are an investment in our future, bringing dollars into the community while promoting outdoor recreation as a healthy, sustainable way of life.
It shouldn’t surprise anyone that British Columbians are fond of outdoor recreation, but a new 2024 Ipsos poll shows just how influential trails and natural amenities are in major decisions. The survey revealed that 56% of BC residents said access to trails and outdoor amenities played a role in their decision on where to live. These rates are even higher among millennials, high-income households, and families with children.
What does this mean for our communities? It highlights the growing need for accessible trails, not just for recreation but as key players in attracting and retaining residents. As we continue to lead the way in developing and sustaining trails in communities like Williams Lake, these findings bring into focus how integral trails are to building healthy, sustainable communities.
The same poll also found that nearly 90% of British Columbians want more government investment in outdoor recreation. Trails are not just a path through nature; they are essential infrastructure that improves our quality of life and fuels economic growth. Local businesses benefit when residents and visitors have access to trails, and many young professionals consider outdoor opportunities when deciding where to settle.
However, the economic benefits of trails extend beyond tourism. Trails also play a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life for residents. Communities with well-maintained trail networks tend to attract professionals, especially those seeking a lifestyle that balances work with outdoor activity. For example, the proximity of our trails to Williams Lake’s town center has been a key factor in attracting healthcare professionals, teachers, and other skilled workers who value outdoor amenities.
Environmental stewardship is another critical role that trails fulfill. Well-designed and maintained trails help protect sensitive ecosystems by managing the flow of human traffic. They offer a way for people to engage with nature in a low-impact manner, reducing the risk of erosion and habitat damage.
Trails and reconciliation
One of the most meaningful impacts trails can have is their role in reconciliation. Trails present a unique opportunity to work in partnership with Indigenous communities, creating spaces that honor cultural heritage and traditions. Personally, this has been one of the most rewarding aspects of my work: helping to build not just physical trails, but also bridges of understanding and respect between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.
When developed with intention, trails can be more than pathways through the wilderness. They can be pathways toward healing and mutual respect. By working closely with Indigenous partners, we ensure that trails reflect both the recreational needs of the broader community and the cultural importance to those whose ancestors first walked these lands.
In the end, trails shape more than just the land they traverse. They shape how we connect with each other, how we see our communities, and how we see ourselves in relation to the world around us. Whether it’s the thrill of a downhill ride or the quiet reflection of a nature walk, trails offer something for everyone. They remind us that we are all part of something bigger: a shared landscape, a shared responsibility, and a shared future.
