Amy Derksen

Why I’m Participating in the Great Canadian Hike

I've always been a fan of getting out and experiencing things - beautiful scenery, wildlife, physical activity, fresh air, and sometimes once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The great outdoors are a place to find solitude and introspection, or to spend time with loved ones and build connections – and the Trans Canada Trail offers all that and more. Protecting these outdoor spaces and keeping them free and accessible for everyone is more important than ever these days, when government cuts and urban development are threatening natural spaces everywhere.

This fall, I’m joining the Great Canadian Hike. It is a nationwide challenge where people across Canada will stay active and log their kilometres to collectively reach 30,000 kilometres in 30 days — the length of the Trail from coast to coast to coast. Anyone is welcome to join, regardless of their location or choice of activity. Every kilometre hiked, biked, ran, walked, swam, paddled, or rolled counts!

From September 20 to October 19, I’ll be logging my kilometres and raising funds to help keep the Trail accessible, safe, and thriving — for everyone, now and for future generations.

You can sign up to participate, donate directly to my fundraising page, or share my campaign with your network to help spread the word.

Let’s be part of something great — together.