Building community, youth leadership and representation in the outdoors through hiking, camping, climbing and more!
Based in Mohkinstsis (Calgary, Alberta), the Multicultural Trail Network (MTN) is Canada’s first non-profit dedicated to empowering diverse youth between the ages of 14–24 by providing access to the great outdoors.
Our inclusive programs support youth who face racial and cultural discrimination, especially those identifying as Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour (BIPOC). BIPOC stands for Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour — communities that have historically been underrepresented in outdoor and leadership spaces.
Led by a committed team of BIPOC adults, our mission is to dismantle barriers to entry and create meaningful opportunities for young people to experience nature, build relationships, and discover their strengths through outdoor adventure.
Through our programs, BIPOC youth in Mohkinstsis and surrounding areas can participate in outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, rock climbing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and more.
If you’re looking to become an ally for BIPOC youth and support their access to outdoor experiences, explore the many ways you can get involved.
Programs for Youth
Our outdoor programs for youth in Calgary are designed to empower BIPOC, newcomer, and refugee youth through hands-on experiences in nature.
Are you a beginner? No problem! We welcome both beginners and experienced youth to join us in guided hikes, camping trips, ice skating, rock climbing, and so much more!
You will get the opportunity to build your outdoor skills, gain confidence in Canada’s natural environment, and connect with a new community of people who also love the outdoors.
Outdoor Leadership
For outdoor enthusiasts who want to the take the next step, we empower you to lead and inspire others. Our network of youth leaders, certified through programs such as the Outdoor Council of Canada Field Leader Courses, have gained hands-on experience in planning and leading hikes, facilitating group activities, and practicing outdoor safety.
These young leaders build confidence, develop leadership skills, and become role models for other underrepresented youth, creating a ripple effect of inclusive outdoor engagement. With this training, youth are equipped to mentor, guide, and inspire the next generation of BIPOC and newcomer adventurers as volunteers.
HELP MAKE THESE ADVENTURES POSSIBLE
Support Multicultural Trail Network
INDIVIDUAL DONORS
Every young person deserves safe access to nature, free of discrimination and all the health and wellness benefits that come with it — regardless of their race, culture, economic background, or abilities. Your donation helps MTN provide youth programs, leadership training, and outdoor experiences for BIPOC and newcomer youth in Calgary.
Every gift empowers young people to explore nature, build confidence, and develop lifelong skills in safe and inclusive outdoor spaces. By contributing, you’re helping create opportunities, mentorship, and access to the outdoors for youth who need it most. Even $5 can support a local youth in joining a hiking program. Join us in transforming lives through nature. Every donation helps to create system level change in Canada’s outdoor community.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
MTN collaborates with leading outdoor and community organizations to expand access to the outdoors for BIPOC and newcomer youth in Calgary.
Previous partners, including Arc’teryx, Fjällräven, CPAWS Southern Alberta, and the Outdoor Council of Canada, help us deliver high-quality programs, provide mentorship, and support inclusive leadership opportunities.
Through these partnerships, we combine expertise, resources, and networks to create meaningful outdoor experiences, skill-building programs, and leadership pathways that empower youth to explore, learn, and thrive in nature. Together with our partners, we’re transforming Calgary’s outdoor spaces into welcoming, accessible, and inspiring environments for all young people.
Become a Cultural Trailblazer
Become part of an amazing group of people committed to making nature more welcoming for BIPOC communities. Our Cultural Trailblazers Volunteer Program allows you to connect with the outdoor community, get outside in nature, and bring your unique skillset to support our programming.