User:Bkcoms/Trans Canada Trail

The majority of my edits to this article will be the emphasis on the difference between the Trans Canada Trail (the non-profit organization) and The Great Trail (the trail itself). In 2016, the non-profit organization changed the name of the trail. The Great Trail is a cross-Canada system of greenways, waterways, and roadways that stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific to the Arctic oceans. The Trail extends over 24,000 kilometres (15,000 miles); it is now the longest recreational, multi-use trail network in the world. The idea for the trail began in 1992, shortly after the Canada 125 celebrations. Since then it has been supported by donations from individuals, corporations, foundations, and all levels of government.

The Great Trail is the name for the physical trail that runs through all provinces and territories across Canada. In September 2016, Trans Canada Trail renamed the title of the physical trail to The Great Trail. Trans Canada Trail remains the name of the non-profit group that raises funds for the continued development of the trail. However, the Trail is owned and operated at the local level.

On August 26, 2017, Trans Canada Trail celebrated the connection of The Great Trail with over 200 events held throughout Canada, including a central event held in Canada's capital. The Ottawa event was held at Major’s Hill Park, with host Valerie Pringle and headliner Steven Page. Additional performing artists included Kimberly Sunstrum, Cody Coyote and Nukariik.

Moving beyond the connection, Trans Canada Trail's mission is to enhance and improve the Trail, by making it more accessible, replace interim roadways with off-road greenways, add new spurs and loops to the Trail, and fund emergency repairs when needed, as well as develop relationships with trail users and partners across Canada.