Trails BC is pleased to report that with the support of the National Trans Canada Trail Foundation as the primary funding partner with a $210,000 contribution for Phase 1 as well as funding partners, Columbia Basin Trust, Regional District of East Kootenay and Recreation Sites and Trails BC we got off to a great start in building a quality regional trail.

Trails BC director Al Skucas says, “The Trans Canada Trail is about connecting Canadians and communities and this initiative certainly does that-we are connecting the City of Cranbrook to our rural communities of Mayook and Wardner.”

The trail for the most part will utilize an abandoned rail corridor on Crown land from Cranbrook to Wardner with a bypass around private interests at Mayook. The model of utilizing abandoned rail corridors as managed trails has proven to be a successful utilization of these corridors all across North America.

This improved crushed gravel surfaced trail will have the potential not only to promote healthy and active living but also be a recreational asset that will be a boost to the tourism economy of the region. As a rustic and scenic complement to the already popular NorthStar Rails-to-Trails, this proposal will enhance outdoor recreational opportunities for our regional communities as well as serve to make the region a popular destination for trail users.

Phase 1 last year saw resurfacing of the rail trail on Crown land for 7.5 km to Pritchard Road and a new 3.5 connector trail link was built to a trail amenity at the Highway 3 Ramparts Rest Area. Combined with the rail trail section, this makes for a lovely 6.5 km loop trail. Preliminary work was also started on a section of the Ha Ha Road to Wardner approach rail grade section. There are some minor works to be completed this spring but the rail trail section to Pritchard Road is currently usable in its improved state.

At this time we cannot recommend cycle use on the Rampart Connector section as the graveled surface is still somewhat wet and has not completely set. However, walkers are more than welcome to try out the new trail.

“We are so pleased with the generous funding support from the Trans Canada Trail Foundation. The support for Phase 1 of the Cranbrook to Wardner destination trail project will ensure that momentum for the project will carry forward into the ensuing years,” Skucas commented.

Although matching funding is yet to be completely raised for Phase 2 of the project, we are well on our way in raising a good portion of these funds. As a community based initiative we are enjoying funding support from a broad range of groups and agencies.

Trails BC with our volunteer supporters and partners are looking forward to another successful season of trail building on the Cranbrook to Wardner Destination Trail.

For more info go HERE.

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Lead image: Appendix
 Map of Phase 1 Development.

Trails BC Rockies/Kootenays

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