Sparwood trails expand with new builds planned for 2026

The Sparwood Trail System is continuing to grow in 2026, with new trail construction planned in the Sparwood Ridge area and volunteer maintenance work set to begin in May.

Dan Charest, responding on behalf of the Sparwood Trails Alliance, said the group has played a key role in developing and maintaining the local trail network since it was created in 2016.

“The Sparwood Trail Alliance (STA) was established in 2016 with a vision of build and maintain a world class trail system around the community of Sparwood,” said Charest. “The goal of the trail network is to provide safe and sustainable access to nature.”

This season, the alliance is planning two new trails in the Sparwood Ridge area. Charest said the work would add 2.4 kilometres of new trail in 2026, with construction expected to begin in late May and be completed by early August.

The new work will add to a system that already requires regular upkeep. Charest said the alliance is responsible for maintaining 70 kilometres of trail, including the Trans Canada Trail section between Sparwood and Hosmer.

“The STA is responsible for maintaining 70km of trail,” said Charest. “Trail maintenance parties start in May and will prioritize maintenance of the Trans Canada Trail from Sparwood to Hosmer.”

Since its founding, the group has also built 23 kilometres of progressive single track trail, which Charest said receives annual maintenance.

The alliance works with the District of Sparwood on both trail development and upkeep. Charest described the relationship as cooperative, with the district providing support for trail maintenance and winter grooming.

“The STA and the District of Sparwood (DOS) have a mutually beneficial relationship regarding trail development and maintenance,” said Charest. “The DOS provides trail maintenance funding as well as winter grooming funding to the STA for maintenance of the Trans Canada Trail and winter grooming of trails around the community.”

Charest said the alliance also has a land use agreement with the district to build and maintain trails.

Trail use has continued to grow in recent years. According to Charest, the alliance has seen steady growth since 2019, with the system being used throughout the year. The busiest period is typically from June to September.

The trails serve a mix of users, including riders, hikers, families and people walking pets. Charest said the network is intended for non-motorized and non-equestrian use.

“The STA network is non-motorized and non-equestrian and that’s about it,” said Charest. “We love to see people enjoying the trails with kids and pets.”

With the spring season underway, Charest said users should be careful while the trails are drying out.

“It’s early season so we ask people to take caution as trails dry up, if the trail is soft, please avoid until ready,” said Charest.

The alliance’s biggest need remains volunteers. Charest said the group has a strong volunteer base, but more help is always welcome as maintenance season begins.

“The STA has an excellent group of volunteers, however the more folks that want to volunteer the better,” said Charest.

Weekly maintenance work parties are expected to start in May, with more details to be shared through the group’s social media channels.

The alliance is also supporting several upcoming events, including the Kootenay Krusher on May 9 and the Trans Rockies Single Track 3 in June. People interested in volunteering can contact Sparwoodtrails@gmail.com.

The Sparwood Trails Alliance Annual General Meeting is scheduled for June 2 at 6 p.m. at Causeway Bay in Sparwood.

For Charest, the trail system has value beyond recreation. He said the trails provide a way for residents and visitors to connect with nature and with one another.

“Trails are amazing for bringing people together,” said Charest. “Getting out in nature is a fantastic way to de-stress.”

He said the Sparwood trail network also includes multiple viewpoints and benches, giving users places to stop, rest and enjoy the outdoors.

Charest said people who use and appreciate the trails can support the system by purchasing a Sparwood Trails Alliance membership.