Q: Tell us about yourself!

A: I am an avid traveller. I have been all over Newfoundland, visiting not only the major centers, but the many small communities and coves (including some of the resettled areas). I have driven across Canada to Vancouver Island, and have travelled to Britain, Ireland, France & Spain and parts of the US. I also love hiking and wherever I go I look for a trail to check out. This has led me to hike the Hadrian’s Wall Path in England and the Camino in France and Spain. My love of hiking is probably what led me to volunteer for the East Coast Trail.

Pat Ryan, Ferryland Trail Raiser, October 2023, with Ed Delaney (right)

Q: Tell us about your volunteer experiences with the ECTA.

A: I began volunteering with the ECTA in 2010. At that time I joined the Trail Management Committee to provide some assistance with budgeting and cost analysis for trail construction. Eventually I joined the Board of Directors in 2015 and took on the position of VP of the Trail Management Committee. In that role I have been involved in most all aspects of the East Coast Trail Association, from overseeing trail maintenance and development, to fundraising, volunteer recruitment, community relations, and numerous other projects.

Q: What motivates you to volunteer? And what do you find most rewarding?

A: Because I loved hiking the East Coast Trail, I wanted to give back to the Association in some way. That’s what initially made me choose to volunteer. After becoming more familiar with the operations of the organization, I found it rewarding to take on projects and see them through and see the positive impact it would have on the trail itself and the people who love the trail. That’s probably why I am still involved.

Q: What’s your favourite trail and why?

A: It’s really hard to choose a favourite. Each path has its own distinct characteristics and can be my favourite on any given day. However, I seem to be drawn to Stiles Cove Path north of St. John’s and Flamber Head Path on the Southern Shore more often than others.

Q: Tell us about a memorable experience you’ve had on the trail.

A: Oh, too many. My first visit to the Spout and standing under the water spray as it erupted from the rock. Then, the following winter, hiking to the Spout (overland from Middle Pond) to see the huge snow cone at the Spout. Another unforgettable experience was hiking Spout Path for the first time and taking the side trail to Small Point and seeing the cliffs and the aqua coloured water (I thought I was in the Caribbean).

Q: What’s next for you as your position of VP of Trail Management? Anything exciting on the horizon?

A: The East Coast Trail is 30 year old. Many of the path structures have reached the end of their life cycle. My main goal now is to make sure we can replace and rebuild and ensure the Trail is there for another 30 years and beyond for all to enjoy.

Pat Ryan receieving the Flamber Head Award in 2023 for exceptional commitment to volunteerism, pictured with Bob Hickey (left) & Randy Murphy (right).

Q: What would you say to somebody who is interested in volunteering with the East Coast Trail Association?

A: If you love the Trail and want to give back, there are certainly opportunities. If you have areas of interest (accounting, fundraising, community outreach, marketing, etc.), go to our website and make contact and tell us a little about yourself. We will go from there.