Our Mission
To promote, encourage and conduct responsible hiking and similar self-propelled activities while stewarding the Rideau Trail network.
Our Vision
The Rideau Trail Association is a community of engaged hikers and a legacy of enduring trails.
About Us
The Rideau Trail Association Inc. (RTA) is a charitable, volunteer-run organization with two main roles:
- First, it coordinates and promotes self-propelled activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, cross country skiing and other outdoor activities. Hikes and other activities are lead by certified and experienced hike leaders. Hikes are suitable for beginner, intermediate and advanced hikers.
- Second, it stewards over 40 trails that span over 450 km. The main trail, known as the Rideau Trail, is roughly 325 km in length, and goes between downtown Kingston and downtown Ottawa.
We promote the Leave no trace principle:
- Be respectful of nature.
- Take nothing but photographs.
- Leave nothing but foot prints.
Our History
Both the Rideau Trail and the Rideau Trail Association were funded in 1971. The person behind this initiative was Douglas Knapp, the Rideau Trail Association’s first Treasurer. As the name indicates, the Rideau Trail was named after the Rideau Canal waterway which has linked the two cities since 1832. Interestingly, the Trail and the Canal only connect in a few areas. Check out the History of the Trail Area for more information.
Our Governance:
The RTA operates on a volunteer basis under a Board of Directors with three subordinate clubs: The Kingston Club, the Ottawa Club and the Central Club which includes Perth, Smiths Falls and Westport. The three local clubs are responsible for organizing outings (e.g. hikes) and local club events. The Board performs central administrative and financial services for the Association. It also provides strategic leadership and performs governance oversight to ensure that the Association operates in compliance with government guidelines as a charitable non-profit organization.
About the Rideau Trail:
Check out the Discover the trail page for information about maps, alerts, and FAQs.