Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating the premiere of 500 Days in the Wild, the first original documentary from filmmaker Dianne Whelan, is in theatres now. This captivating film follows Whelan’s unprecedented expedition along the 24,000 km Trans Canada Trail, showcasing stunning landscapes, wildlife encounters, and personal reflections.

Outdoor enthusiasts can catch a special screening hosted by Hot Docs in Toronto on March 14, featuring an intimate Q&A session with Whelan herself.

500 Days in the Wild made its debut at the 2023 Whistler International Film Festival to enthusiastic acclaim, securing the esteemed Audience Award, a testament to its resonance with festival attendees.

Whelan’s six-year adventure along the Trans Canada Trail, encompassing both land and water, offers a profound exploration of Canada’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Through her lens, audiences are invited to witness the transformative power of nature and the importance of connection with the environment.

“I’ve made a film on the highest mountain in the world and I’ve made a film on the most northern coastline in the world, but 500 Days in the Wild is the mother of them all,” says Dianne Whelan. “Unlike most adventure films, which are about conquering something, 500 Days in the Wild is about connection – I didn’t conquer the trail, I connected with it.” 

Stretching across every province and territory, the Trans Canada Trail spans an impressive 28,000 kilometers, linking 15,000 communities and extending to all three of Canada’s coastlines. As the longest multi-use trail globally, it owes its existence to the unwavering support of countless trail groups, volunteers, and generous donors.

500 Days in the Wild promises to inspire audiences to embrace their own outdoor adventures while fostering a deeper appreciation for the land and its indigenous communities.