Trekking the Confederation Trail, Prince Edward Island
Hiking and Traveling the Confederation Trail in Atlantic Canada
While it’s hardly a hard trek, traveling the Confederation Trail in Prince Edward Island is an exciting experience all its own. You not only claim the bragging rights of having cycled, or walked around or up to 400 kilometres (168 miles), but along the way you’ll meet interesting people and take in the sights and attractions the island has to offer.
The Confederation Trail was completed in 2000, and is the first part of the Trans Canada Trail to have been completed. Developed from old railway lines the trail goes from tip to tip, or from Tignish to Elmira, in PEI. There are also many other trails linking onto the Confederation Trail, leading to other island destinations like Charlottetown, Souris, Georgetown, Montague, Wood Islands, Murray River, Murray Harbour and even from the Confederation Bridge—the world’s longest—at Borden-Carleton. There are a variety of Accommodations to stay at, from quaint B&B’s to campgrounds, cottages and hotels, and you’ll pass many great towns and villages along the way for dining, shopping and relaxing.
Take it by foot, horseback or bicycle for a real tour all your own. In the winter the provincial government even has the snowy trail groomed for snowmobiling and cross country skiing. The whole way is marked with kilometre posts and directional and interpretive signage. Also watch out for plum coloured gates which mark various entries on to the trail. Along the way you’ll also find benches, picnic table shelters, and scenic look outs. You’ll never be too far from civilization, though you may feel you’ve walked back in time as you trek across open meadows and through hardwood groves. Have a look at the Cycling Guide for information on the Cyclists Welcome Program which includes accommodations that are cyclist friendly and meet fellow touring enthusiasts along the way. Just remember to pack your helmet, and have your bike maintained (and a comfortable seat!) before you head out. Also pack water, tire patch kit, first aid kit, and your camera!
Take part in the Tip-to-Tip tour by picking up a ribbon at the East Point Lighthouse Craft Shop and North Cape Interpretive Centre and receive a certificate for your hard work after all is said and done. Why not stop and take in a festival or event along the way. It will be a good excuse to give your legs and backside a rest, as well as an opportunity to explore our local culture. Click here for a list of events happening during the summer along the Confederation Trail. From markets and food festivals to cultural events you’ll be able to get in on something fun!
For more information on the Confederation Trail in Prince Edward Island visit: www.gov.pe.ca. Happy trekking!
