Join us in celebrating the world's longest recreational trail

OTTAWA , Sept. 23 /CNW Telbec/ - Media representatives are invited to join Laureen Harper , wife of Prime Minister Stephen Harper , and broadcaster Valerie Pringle on a walk celebrating the historic Trans Canada Trail section in the National Capital Region.

The event will take place on Saturday September 26 , starting at 9 a.m. at the Trans Canada Trail Pavilion in Jacques Cartier Park in Gatineau, QC. Participants and media representatives will walk 2.5 kilometres on the Trail to the Bytown Museum. On the route, they will enjoy views of Ottawa's most famous landmarks including the Parliament Buildings, the Supreme Court of Canada and the National War Museum; marvel at the rich history of the Rideau Canada and Ottawa River; and experience the Trail as an important link between Ontario and Quebec and Canadians from coast to coast to coast.

The Trans Canada Trail is the world's longest recreational trail. Today more than 70 percent of the proposed 22,000 km-route is operational. It is being used by millions of Canadians and international visitors to explore and discover Canada's diverse landscapes and rich history.

Saturday's celebration walk is the finale of Trans Canada Trail's 2009 Annual General Meeting, which will bring trail groups from every province and territory to Ottawa for three days of meetings and activities. These include a reception at Rideau Hall, hosted by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean, to honour the Trail's founders, Dr. Pierre Camu and the late Mr. William (Bill) Pratt.

One of the most important items on the AGM agenda is discussion of an aggressive plan to complete the Trans Canada Trail by 2017. Chair Valerie Pringle explains the significance of this date. "Not only will it be the 25th anniversary of the Trans Canada Trail but Canada's 150th year since Confederation. Completion of the Trail will be a major cause for celebration. We are creating an important legacy for Canadians today and for generations to come."

The Trans Canada Trail is delighted that Mrs. Harper will join Board members, provincial and territorial groups, trail volunteers and media representatives for the walk. "She is an avid supporter of the Trail as an initiative that links Canadians from coast to coast to coast, promotes a fit and active life style, and stimulates local economic growth and tourism," says Valerie Pringle .

"Her presence will highlight the broad support of Canadians for the Trans Canada Trail and the commitment of governments at all levels, federal, provincial and municipal, for this bold and inspiring national initiative."

For further information: Jane Craig, Director of Communications, Trans Canada Trail, [phone], [email protected]