Prince Edward Island

CANADIAN PROVINCE

Prince Edward Island

Capital: Charlottetown
Population: 156,947 (2019) – StatCan
Time Zone: GMT -3, ADT
Hiking Website: hikingpei.ca

Prince Edward Island is one of eastern Canada’s maritime provinces, located off New Brunswick and Nova Scotia in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The island is famous for its stunning red-sand beaches, lighthouses, and fertile farmland, and is renowned for its seafood like lobster and mussels. The capital, Charlottetown, is home to Victorian government buildings and the modern Confederation Centre of the Arts, which features a theatre and an art gallery.

Notable Trails in Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island may not be famous for long-distance hiking trails due to its small size and predominantly farmland and coastal landscape, but it still offers several scenic routes for outdoor enthusiasts. Below are some of the most notable hiking trails on the island:

  • Confederation Trail
    • Distance: 435 km (270 miles)
    • Description: This multi-use trail spans the entire length of the island, passing through charming rural landscapes, small towns, and picturesque views. It’s primarily used for cycling but also serves as an excellent hiking route.
  • Greenwich Dunes Trail
    • Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
    • Description: Located in Greenwich, Prince Edward Island National Park, this scenic loop takes you through coastal dunes and forests. It features a floating boardwalk that crosses wetland areas and offers beautiful views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
  • Robinsons Island Trail
    • Distance: 4 km (2.5 miles)
    • Description: Situated in Robinsons Island Provincial Park, this trail offers a peaceful hike through wooded areas and along the coastline. The park is perfect for birdwatching and offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Winter River Trail
    • Distance: 11 km (7 miles)
    • Description: Located near Charlottetown, this relatively easy trail follows the Winter River through forests and open fields. It’s popular with locals for walking, running, and biking.
  • Bonshaw Hills Provincial Park
    • Distance: 18 km (11 miles) (network of interconnected trails)
    • Description: While not a long-distance trail, Bonshaw Hills Provincial Park offers a variety of interconnected loops through diverse terrain, including forests, hills, and rivers. The park allows for multiple trail options based on fitness level and preference.

While Prince Edward Island might not have extensive long-distance hiking options, its natural beauty and variety of smaller trails provide excellent opportunities for outdoor exploration.

For more details, check out the official hiking website: hikingpei.ca