The Meewasin Valley Authority is offering beer drinkers a taste of the trail as it continues raising money for its $8-million effort to expand the walking route through Saskatoon’s river valley.

It's the beating heart of our city - Heather Williams

Saskatoon brewery Prairie Sun is helping that effort with Meewasin 80 ale, and it’s quite authentic. The custom brew not only adopts the name of the trail, but some of its flavours. It is brewed with branches from spruce and pine trees. The branches come from trees along the Meewasin Valley.

“It doesn't taste like spearmint gum. It's more of an aroma thing. It's a very refreshing light-tasting beer,” said Prairie Sun's Heather Williams.

Meewasin 80 ale is a limited edition. When it's gone, it's gone

The beer makes its debut Thursday night at a fundraising event. Some proceeds from the sale of the beer will go to expanding the trail. After the Thursday event, the beer will go on sale to the public, until the taps run dry.

Williams said Prairie Sun is happy to help build more trail.

“I think everyone that lives in Saskatoon has a personal connection to it [the trail]. It runs right through our city. It's just part of our city, right? It's the beating heart of our city.”

The MVA’s efforts will eventually see the trail link in the northwest to Wanuskewin Heritage Park, and in the southeast to Chief Whitecap Park.