B.C. and Ontario Trailbuilding
This summer, we're leading you into some of the most spectacular old-growth forests on Vancouver Island, B.C., and in Temagami, Ontario. You’ll work with other volunteers, participate in trips of varying difficulty levels, and learn about local ecosystems and the people working to preserve them.
Sign up for trail trips in B.C. (2026)
Led by experienced wilderness leaders, these Vancouver Island trips offer a unique opportunity to hike and build trails within old-growth forests, with all transportation costs covered. Participants are expected bring three things: an enthusiasm for the outdoors, necessary gear (discounted rentals are provided) and their own food.
Because spots fill quickly and cancellations hinder vital volunteer efforts, please only register if you are fully committed to attending the scheduled trip. We hope to see you on the trails this year!
For any questions about our 2026 trail trip season, please contact our Senior Organizer & Field Program Lead Em Hoffpauir at em@wildernesscommittee.org.
All trips take place on the territories of the Ahousaht, Pacheedaht and Cowichan peoples, and the Wilderness Committee recognizes the sovereignty of these Indigenous Nations. Participants are expected to carry themselves with respect and compassion.
If you're up for some spectacular ancient forest and coastal views alongside some long hikes and gratifying work, take a three-night trip to Flores Island in Clayoquot Sound.
The Koksilah River Grove is a small remnant patch of old-growth forest west of Shawnigan Lake in Cowichan Tribes Territory, about an hour and a half north of Victoria. This region is heavily logged, and the Koksilah Grove is a reminder of this rare and critical forest ecosystem.
The Walbran Valley, or Kaxi:ks [pronounced ka-hecks] contains some of the best old-growth rainforest in the country. The Wilderness Committee helps upgrade and maintain trail systems, some of which date back to the early 90s.
Sign up for trail trips in Ontario (2026)
Old-growth forests in Ontario are rare and often under-appreciated. They’ve been reduced to relatively small, isolated pockets due to over a century of clearing for development and resource extraction. While the province’s network of protected places serve as sanctuaries for some of these naturally evolved ecosystems, there are still many old-growth forests at risk from industry such as logging and mining.
There are limited spots available to participate in these guided trips focusing on trail and campsite maintenance, as well as old-growth documentation. For more information, please email our Ontario Campaigner Katie Krelove at katie@wildernesscommittee.org.
These trips take place on the territories of the Anishnabai people, and the Wilderness Committee recognizes the sovereignty of these Indigenous Nations. Participants are expected to carry themselves with respect and compassion.
Old-growth forests around Blueberry Lake, east of Temagami, escaped logging in the 1940s as their hilly and steep location proved challenging for horse logging. Today, these are among the most significant tracts of old-growth forest in the area outside of the protected park and also one of the most accessible. On this trip we’ll be working to maintain campsites, portage routes and an established trail through stunning old-growth.
This is a guided canoe trip with camping on crown land and daily group work to maintain old growth trails. Participants are responsible for their own gear and food.
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