Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Great Coastal Trail Authority (GCTA) is a non-profit organization leading the planning, development, and long-term stewardship of the Great Coastal Trail in Newfoundland & Labrador. Our work focuses on building a world-class trail network that supports community revitalization, economic development, cultural preservation, wellness, and environmental stewardship.

  • The Great Coastal Trail is a proposed long-distance coastal trail network that will ultimately span 1000+ kilometres along Newfoundland and Labrador’s Great Northern Peninsula, connecting coastal and rural communities through walkable, accessible routes.

    The trail is designed not just as a recreational asset, but as living infrastructure — supporting tourism, small business growth, local employment, heritage storytelling, and community pride.

  • Many rural and coastal communities face challenges such as population decline, limited economic opportunity, and loss of local services. Trails have proven globally to be powerful tools for:

    • Rural and coastal economic diversification

    • Tourism development and visitor dispersal

    • Health and wellness

    • Cultural continuity and storytelling

    • Environmental awareness and stewardship

    The Great Coastal Trail is about reconnecting people to place — and helping communities build sustainable futures rooted in who they already are.

  • As a non-profit organization, the GCTA relies on a mix of:

    • Government grants and contributions

    • Sponsorships and partnerships

    • Philanthropic and foundation support

    • In-kind contributions

    • Project-based funding

    We are committed to transparency, accountability, and responsible stewardship of all funds.

  • The Great Coastal Trails Conference is the GCTA’s annual gathering that brings together trail leaders, communities, planners, funders, and partners to share knowledge, build relationships, and move projects forward.

    The 2026 conference, titled The Long Walk Home: A Trails & Communities Conference, will be held October 5–7, 2026 in Cow Head, Newfoundland & Labrador.

  • The conference is open to:

    • Community leaders and residents

    • Municipal and regional planners

    • Trail builders and advocates

    • Tourism and business operators

    • Indigenous partners

    • Government representatives

    • Students and emerging leaders

    We aim to keep the conference accessible and inclusive, particularly for small and rural communities.

  • No. The GCTA is an independent, community-driven non-profit organization. We work collaboratively with municipal, provincial, and federal governments, Indigenous partners, community organizations, and the private sector, but we are not a government agency.

  • The GCTA works with:

    • Local and regional municipalities

    • Community development organizations

    • Indigenous partners and knowledge holders

    • Trail builders, planners, and engineers

    • Tourism operators and entrepreneurs

    • Provincial and federal stakeholders

    • Volunteers, advisors, and board members

    Community involvement is central to everything we do.

  • The Great Coastal Trail is being developed in phases. Some sections already exist as local or regional trails, while others require planning, upgrades, or new construction.

    Our role is to:

    • Connect existing trails

    • Support communities in developing new sections

    • Ensure consistency, safety, and long-term sustainability

    • Build a unified vision and governance structure

  • Communities along the trail can benefit through:

    • Increased visitation and tourism spending

    • Opportunities for local businesses and micro-enterprises

    • Job creation during development and maintenance

    • Enhanced community pride and identity

    • Infrastructure that supports residents as well as visitors

    • Youth engagement and skills development

    The trail is designed with communities, not imposed on them.

  • We recognize that trails exist on lands with deep Indigenous histories and ongoing cultural significance. The GCTA is committed to:

    • Respectful engagement and relationship-building

    • Listening to Indigenous voices and priorities

    • Supporting Indigenous-led stewardship and storytelling

    • Ensuring Indigenous perspectives are meaningfully represented

  • There are many ways to get involved:

    • Partner with us as a community, sponsor, or collaborator

    • Attend or present at the annual conference

    • Volunteer or contribute expertise

    • Support the project through advocacy or funding

    • Stay informed through our newsletters and updates

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