The Nova Scotia Trails Federation (NS Trails) is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to the development, maintenance, and promotion of recreational trails throughout the province of Nova Scotia. Registered under business number 874582778RR0001, NS Trails serves as the collective voice and coordinating body for the trails sector in Nova Scotia.

Overview

NS Trails supports more than 140 volunteer community groups and municipalities, helping them plan, build, and maintain safe and enjoyable trails. The federation oversees a network of over 10,000 kilometers of trails spanning wilderness areas, rural communities, and urban centers across Nova Scotia. These trails provide recreational opportunities and contribute to local health, environment, culture, recreation, and transportation initiatives, encapsulated in NS Trails' motto: "Take Trails to H.E.A.R.T." (Health, Environment, Arts, Recreation, and Transportation) [2][3].

Membership and Partnerships

NS Trails encompasses a diverse membership that includes six provincial trail user groups such as the ATV Association of Nova Scotia, Snowmobile Association of Nova Scotia, Nova Scotia Off Road Riders Association, Cycling Nova Scotia, Canoe Kayak Nova Scotia, and the Nova Scotia Equestrian Federation. Together, these groups represent thousands of trail users, managers, and builders province-wide [2].

The organization is also the official provincial partner of the Trans Canada Trail, the world's longest trail network. NS Trails works collaboratively with government bodies, Indigenous communities, landowners, businesses, and stakeholders to advance trail development and stewardship in the region [2].

Mandate and Activities

The primary goals of NS Trails include promoting the development and responsible use of recreational trails for the benefit of Nova Scotians and visitors. They provide resources and support to community groups through all stages of trail planning, construction, maintenance, and management. NS Trails plays a leadership role in uniting the trails community, facilitating collaboration, and advocating for trail-related interests [3][4].

Strategic Leadership

Since 2019, NS Trails has been the lead coordinating partner with the Nova Scotia government on the Shared Strategy for Trails in Nova Scotia. This strategic roadmap, developed through extensive consultation, aims to strengthen leadership, collaboration, and support for trail development, improve planning processes, and enhance connectivity and diversity of trails province-wide. The strategy focuses on goals such as aligning trail development efforts, expanding support for trail builders, and incorporating regional planning priorities [2][5].

Location

The organization operates primarily within the Halifax Regional Municipality and serves the broader Nova Scotia region [3].