The Wágḷísḷa Trails Project: A Community Success Story
- Apr 30
- 3 min read
Updated: May 5
Decades of Dedication
The trails that visitors enjoy today represent more than 30 years of community effort. Many attempts to build and rebuild these trails began in the late 1980s and early 1990s, but it wasn't until recent years that the community achieved the sustainable, high-quality standards we maintain today.
Key Milestone: In 2024, the Heiltsuk Nation officially completed the full rebuild of the Red Cedar Trail to professional standards, creating a pathway that is both beautiful and low-maintenance.
Strategic Funding & Support
The revitalization of Waglisla Trails has been made possible through strategic partnerships and grant funding from 2025 Outdoor Recreation Council of BC (ORCBC) Grant and
Community Involvement
The success of Waglisla Trails is rooted in community participation. Funding supports:
Training community members in professional trail building and maintenance techniques
Employment for local workers in trail construction and maintenance
Sustainable, year-round employment opportunities that complement seasonal fishing work
As Evangeline Clifton, Economic Development Officer at the Heiltsuk Tribal Council, notes: "There's so much more that goes into trail building and maintenance than just cutting a few bushes." This commitment to quality and sustainability ensures that these trails will serve the community for generations to come.
Trail Usage & Community Impact
Since revitalization efforts began in 2024, the Waglisla Trails have experienced a dramatic increase in usage:
Approximately 1,500 community members use the trails regularly for walking, picnicking, and swimming
Usage has increased significantly over the past year compared to the previous two to three decades
New amenities like the zipline added to the Red Cedar Trail have attracted families and created fun new recreational opportunities
Economic benefits: Trail-based recreation creates land-based employment opportunities that help fill gaps left by seasonal fishing work
Safety & Responsible Trail Use
Important Safety Information
Hiking alone in the woods of Bella Bella can be dangerous. The rugged terrain and dense foliage can make it easy to get lost, and encounters with wildlife like bears, wolves, and cougars are possible. Sudden weather changes can also be hazardous.
Please Stay Safe:
Never hike alone – bring a companion
Bring essential items: Map, compass, GPS device
Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising wildlife
Carry bear spray and know how to use it
Be prepared for weather changes – conditions can shift rapidly
Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return
Check weather forecasts before heading out
Wildlife Awareness
The trails pass through prime habitat for bears, wolves, cougars, and other wildlife. Respect their space and follow these guidelines:
Make noise to alert animals of your presence
Never approach or feed wildlife
Store food securely
If you encounter a bear, remain calm and back away slowly
What to Bring
Comfortable, waterproof hiking footwear
Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
Water and snacks
Map and compass or GPS device
Bear spray
Camera (optional)
Insect repellent (especially in summer months)
Sunscreen and hat
Trail Conditions & Seasonal Considerations
Summer (June-August)
Best season for trail use
Longer daylight hours
Insect activity increases
Trails are generally dry and well-maintained
Fall (September-November)
Beautiful scenery with changing foliage
Increasing moisture and mud
Shorter daylight hours
Wildlife activity increases
Winter (December-February)
Wet conditions and heavy moss/mud
Shorter daylight hours
Trails may be slippery
Not recommended for inexperienced hikers
Spring (March-May)
Trails begin to dry out
Increasing daylight
Wildlife activity increases
Stream crossings may be challenging due to snowmelt
Supporting the Trails
The Waglisla Trails project is an ongoing community initiative. If you'd like to support trail maintenance and expansion efforts, consider:
Volunteering: Join community work parties to maintain and improve the trails
Donations: Support the Heiltsuk Nation's trail development fund
Respectful Use: Follow all safety guidelines and leave no trace
Sharing Your Experience: Tell others about the beauty and significance of Waglisla Trails
Get Started
Ready to explore?
Both trails are open year-round, with the best conditions during summer and early fall. Start with the Red Cedar Trail for a leisurely forest walk, or venture to the Narrow Trail for a more remote wilderness experience.
Questions?
Contact the Q̓átuw̓alas Visitor Information Centre at info@heiltsuk.ca or call for trail conditions and recommendations.
#WaglislaTrails – Explore, Respect, Preserve
