A STORMY LAKE & MOCCASIN TRAILS PARTNERSHIP

ELSIPOGTOG FIRST NATION

COMMUNITY TOURISM STRATEGIC PLAN

PROJECT SUMMARY

A 5-year strategy with a 10-year vision to grow community-led tourism in Elsipogtog First Nation, building on the success of the award-winning Heritage Path Tour. The plan expands year-round experiences, supports inclusive entrepreneurship, builds community capacity and celebrates Mi’kmaq culture through tourism rooted in respect, pride, and connection to the land.

APPROACH

• Secondary research

• In-depth interviews

• Survey

• Market research

• Community tour and consultation

• Photojournalism

• Youth roundtable

• Dialogic research

5-Year Tourism Strategy

Welcome to the River of Fire. This is the 10-year tourism vision for the Elsipogtog First Nation that we developed for the Nation. They had a strong starting point: a nationally recognized, award-winning Heritage Path Tour that connected the community and visitors to the history and culture of the Mi’kmaq peoples. But that was the only tourism experience. The community wanted to develop tourism for both cultural and economic development reasons.

The vision is Elsipogtog welcomes visitors in all seasons for cultural, community-led experiences on the land, on the water, and in the community. To ensure the land is protected, healthy, and thriving. Elders are inspired to share their knowledge and youth are inspired to learn from Elders and to connect with mother earth.

It is guided by a community-first ethos. All actions build community capacity, strengthen connection to culture, and create opportunities for the people. Tourism will be developed in a balanced and sustainable way with respect for Mother Earth.

Through this work we honour the Elders, elevate youth, and support entrepreneurs, women and LGBTQ2+ community members.

Elsipogtog will be good hosts, inviting and inclusive of the community, neighbors, partners, and visitors from around the globe. Tourism will be a bridge to truth and reconciliation as the community fosters understanding, trust, and respect through shared experiences.

The 5-Year Tourism Strategy was developed to reflect the community’s vision and is a commitment to celebrating and sharing their culture with the world, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of rich Mi'kmaq heritage.