Our Story
1990
In the 1990s, Peter McGee, author of Kayak Routes of the Pacific Northwest Coast, introduced the concept of a linear route connecting Washington State to Alaska. To make this vision a reality, he gathered support within the paddling community and formed the BC Marine Trails Association (BCMTA). This group created our first two sites: a campsite at Blackberry Point on Valdez Island, complete with a fine composting toilet, and a rest stop on Saltspring Island. Despite enormous support from paddlers and companies, funding constraints and limited public interest meant the time was not quite right for BCMTA to take hold.


2007
2021
Today, our work continues, with over 3,100 sites catalogued. BCMTNA, now known more commonly as BC Marine Trails (BCMT), has over 800 members and counting. After a series of significant reorganizational changes by current President Paul Grey and the BCMT Board of Directors, we are well-positioned to achieve our vision of connecting the BC Coast.
