This section of the Spine Trail extends from approximately the west end of Cowichan Lake to Francis Lake (known as the Tuck Lake Trail). Working in cooperation with other trail-building organizations in the locale, the Trails Boss will be responsible for constructing the trail, installing markers and signs, organizing, scheduling, directing and supervising contract help and volunteers, record keeping, and reporting to the Directors. In addition to working on the Tuck Lake Trail, the Trail Boss will do some work on trails adjacent to Francis Laketo and along the Alberni Canal,and continuing almost into Port Alberni, including: assessing existing trail conditions, making repairs and adding signs.

This is a contract position. The period of work is planned to be 3 to 4 months commencing as soon as possible. Terms are negotiable, based on a daily rate plus mileage.The successful applicant will need to supply his or her own vehicle, basic trail-building tools, first aid equipment, and insurance. Trail markers and signs will be supplied by VISTA. As the location of the work is primarily near Port Alberni and Lake Cowichan, preference will be given to applicants from those locales.

VISTA plans that the contractor could become involved in negotiations with regional district officials, and the contract work could be extended to include additional segments of the planned Vancouver Island Spine Trail in future.

Please send an email of interest to both undersigned addressees, and submit a brief resume of qualifications and experience to VISTA.  Additional information about VISTA may be found at: vispine.ca

Kathleen M. Birney (kbirney (AT) shaw DOT ca)
Gil Parker (gparker (AT) telus DOT net)

About the Vancouver Island Spine Trail

Concept: To provide a hiking trail from Victoria to Cape Scott, accessible during the months of June to October, if not longer.

The Vancouver Island “Spine” Trail is a proposed trail from Victoria in the south to Cape Scott at the northern tip of the Island. The route is an inland path that passes near many communities, yet retains its wilderness character, follows historic routes and uses some existing trails.

Approximately 700km long, the “Spine” is an adventure opportunity that will provide a recreational route for residents and tourists through the beautiful back country of Vancouver Island. Although it is primarily a hiking trail, some sections of the Spine are suitable for other non-motorized use, e.g. mountain bikes, horses, and skis. The route traces mountain ridges, passes through forests and alongside lakes, and is similar to other successful long-distance routes in North America.

The “Spine” Trail will support local economies through increased tourism, cultural tourism opportunities, trail building, and maintenance. Local First Nations, hiking clubs and other outdoor clubs will be encouraged to monitor the trail. First Nations and businesses will have an exciting new opportunity to provide services to travelers in their region.

The project is being developed by the Vancouver Island Spine Trail Association (VISTA), a part of "Hike BC", the BC wing of the National Hiking Trail (NHT). Over the past 30 years the NHT has incorporated such significant trails as the East Coast Trail in Newfoundland, the Bruce Trail in Ontario, the Alexander MacKenzie route, and the Nuxalk/Carrier "Grease Trail" from Bella Coola to Quesnel.