BY JOHN SUTTON
Serving as a valuable addition to Prince Edward Island's already outstanding
portfolio of tourist attractions, the former railway line which now forms the
Confederation Trail offers visitors the opportunity to explore our Island's diverse
natural environment in a way that could never be enjoyed from a car. Passing through
a variety of landscapes ranging from wetlands and stands of native forest to numerous
quaint villages, the trail was purchased from Canadian National Railways by Government
in 1994, and since then Island communities
have been working to transform 350 km of
the old rail-road corridor into a world-class hiking, cycling and snow-mobile trail.
Development of the trail has been undertaken by non-profit community organizations
through the use of short-term leases, and, upon completion, segments of the trail
are designated by Government under the Trails Act and become the responsibility of
the Department of Economic Development and Tourism.
In the year 2000 Prince Edward Island will become the first province to complete
its section of the Confederation Trail. Due to its origins as a railway line the
trail is very nearly flat, and the finely crushed gravel surface is easy for traveling
on foot or by bicycle. Bright plum-colored gates mark entrances into communities
where trekkers can enjoy shopping and dining venues. However, the true appeal of
the trail lies in the beauty of P.E.I's natural surroundings. Traveling the trail
allows nature lovers of all ages to completely immerse themselves in the splendor
of the Island's rural majesty, far away from the frantic pace of everyday life.
In this respect hiking or biking the Confederation Trail is truly much more than
just a recreational activity. The delicate beauty of the Island landscape coupled
with the sheer serenity found only in such natural settings transform such excursions
into experiences which can cleanse the soul and strengthen the spirit. Truly, the
Confederation Trail is Canada's New Outdoor Adventure.
The first long section of the trail runs between Tignish
and Kensington.
Beginning at a beautifully restored railway station, the trail takes trekkers
to the new Jubilee Theatre in Summerside and from there into the heart of P.E.I's
historic Acadian region. Passing through gently rolling farmlands and peaceful
forests, the 125-km off-road route emulates the rich history of communities such
as Tignish, Tyne Valley and O'Leary.
As well, two equestrian trails, one running
from Summerside
to Travelers Rest and the other from O'Leary to Coleman, are
available for those who enjoy horseback riding. Another longer stretch of the
trail runs from Elmira to Mt. Stewart in Kings County. This 75-km section passes
through the outskirts of communities like Morell,
St. Peters and
Souris and reveals
the upper reaches of the Hillsborough River, which is a known haven for fish and
waterfowl, and the quaint mussel buoys and fishing villages found along
St. Peters Bay.
As well, a magnificent view of the Souris
River can be enjoyed from numerous vantage
points along the trail.
A 20 km section of the trail connects the three towns of
Montague, Cardigan and
Georgetown.
Home to one of the deepest harbours in Atlantic Canada,
Georgetown is
also home to a delightful playhouse which hosts a number of theatrical productions
throughout the summer months. Between the communities, the trail runs through the
Brudenell River Provincial Park and Golf Course. Home to an LPGA Skins Game to be
held in the summer of 2000, the golf course is acclaimed as one of the finest in
Atlantic Canada. As well, a tiny island in the Brudenell River features a stone
cairn commemorating the first Scottish settlers who emigrated from the homeland to
this tranquil, picturesque region of P.E.I. The bridge over the river offers a
dramatic view of the surrounding landscape, making Brudenell a perfect destination
for those wishing to travel the trail.
Offering a new and more intimate look at the various urban and rural landscapes
which can be found only on P.E.I., the Confederation Trail provides recreational
opportunities for a wide variety of tastes.
