The National Trails Coalition (NTC) is the operating name for the Coalition of Canadian Trails Organizations, a federally incorporated not-for-profit organization. The NTC was formed in 2007 to bring the broad spectrum of trail-based activities together in a collaborative manner to build, maintain and promote trails and trail use across Canada. One of the founding principles of the Coalition is building new partnerships between trail disciplines; fostering more multiple-use trail development; and providing a trail-based platform on which private enterprise and volunteer groups alike can generate economic activity.
The umbrella organizations spearheading the coalition initiative are the Canadian Council of Snowmobile Organizations (CCSO), the Canadian Off-Highway Vehicle Distributors Council (COHV), and the Canadian Trails Federation (CTF). Through their affiliates across Canada, these parent bodies represent trail building, operating and maintenance organizations in every province and territory. Most importantly, they provide trail infrastructure and a tourism product that is used by millions of Canadians and visitors to Canada.
The coalition was formed out of the recognition that collaboration rather than exclusionary practices is where the future of trail development is headed. Coalition members cut across all disciplines of trail use and are working together to break down the old stereotypes. By working together, and with the Government of Canada as a key partner, the coalition members are confident that trails can rise to the level of a national icon worthy of promotion around the world. At the same time, a growing network of trails will provide Canadians with safe places to enjoy outdoor recreational activities, economic opportunities and an improved environment.
The members of the coalition look forward to a long and prosperous partnership with the Government of Canada to make “United for a Stronger Trail System” a reality.