“The trail has encouraged healthier habits and greater connection to the land, and its success has built momentum for future trail extensions and community-based outdoor projects. Most importantly, it reflects the community’s values—wellness, culture, and self-sufficiency—and will continue to serve Kitselas members for years to come.”
KITSELAS FIRST NATION
The Kitselas Cultural and Wellness Trail (KCWT) was designed to provide a safe and accessible space for physical activity while celebrating Kitselas culture and connection to the land. The trail spans roughly 1.5 km and connects Kulspai to Kitselas-owned lands along the Skeena River. The trail has quickly become an important part of daily life in the community, both as a popular local route and gathering space. There are an estimated approximately 100–200 trail uses per week, mostly by community members walking for exercise, families spending time outdoors, and youth biking or running along the path. Several Elders have commented that it provides a meaningful way to “walk the land” without needing to travel far. Traditional plants were successfully established along sections of the trail, guided by Elders, adding a cultural and educational component. These include culturally significant herbs and shrubs that connect walkers with Kitselas traditions and local ecology.
In addition to physical activity and cultural connection, the trail has also provided short-term employment and hands-on training through Kitselas Five Tier System (K5T). The trail was constructed by participants from the K5T, which promotes employment, education, and skills training for people within Northwest British Columbia. Activities to develop the trail — including clearing and grading the path, laying gravel, and establishing traditional Indigenous plants along sections of the trail with Elder involvement — are consistent with K5T’s mission to build local skills through real projects on Kitselas lands.
The trail is a permanent piece of infrastructure that will continue to serve the community for years to come. The trail was designed with durability and accessibility in mind, using materials suited for northern conditions, and K5T has integrated ongoing trail maintenance and cultural planting into its regular training and work programs. K5T and the community health team plan to continue encouraging regular use through walking groups, cultural events, and Elder involvement in cultural planting and teachings. Looking ahead, improvements on the horizon will include adding benches, cultural signage, and seasonal plantings. We look forward to seeing the Kitselas Cultural and Wellness Trail through the seasons.
