This 11 km stretch of trail between Morell and St. Peter’s Bay is considered by many to be the most picturesque the island has to offer. Winding along the shoreline, the trail crosses the mouth of the Morell River on a 235 foot long bridge, provides a breath-taking view of Greenwich National Park across the water, and passes by a myriad of mussel socks in St. Peter’s Bay before arriving at St. Peter’s Landing.
Island Trails is a unique walking and cycling experience extending tip-to-tip across Prince Edward Island. Created on the bed of the Prince Edward Island Railway, it is 274km from Tignish in western PEI to the east end at Elmira. Including branches into coastal communities, the trail is 390km long. The trail passes through woodlands, farms, over bridges and along rivers offering unlimited opportunities for nature lovers, artists, historians, photographers, berry-pickers or anyone seeking a quiet place to enjoy the uniqueness of PEI.
There is no real wilderness on the Island. Frequent villages and towns offer services to trail explorers, and shelters are placed every 5km. The main trail in Points East Coastal Drive begins in Bedford and continues eastward through Morell along the coastline, beside St. Peter’s Bay and then inland to the Railway Museum at Elmira. Along the way, branch lines extend to Georgetown, Montague and Souris. For trail details check www.islandtrails.ca
Branches of Confederation Trail
Morell to Elmira
The Morell to Elmira section is a moderate 54 km trail that will take you through some of the most scenic coastal views. This route is full of photo ops, so be sure to slow down, enjoy the views and bring along a camera. You’ll find yourself riding over the 235 foot long Morell River bridge at km 221 – the longest bridge along the trail. Enjoy overlooking the St. Peters bay as you cycle through kms 219-230. Check out local shops at km 231 at the St. Peters Landing and nearby at St. Peters Bay Craft & Giftware. Stop at McVarishs’ Pond and see the newly installed hybrid fish ladder. Brush up on the history of railroading on Prince Edward Island at the Elmira Railway Museum located at km 273.
Branch Trail Stratford to Murray Harbour
The Stratford to Murray Harbour section is a moderate 80 km trail that will take you through farmland communities and small town fishing villages. Step back in time at Orwell Historic Village, just a short cycle away from Uigg at km 35. Veer off the trail at km 62 and visit Wood Islands Lighthouse and Interpretive Centre. You may even see the Northumberland Ferry.
Stop by Miller’s Esso & Convenience Store at km 74 in Murray River and visit the small fishing village of Murray Harbour at km 80 and check out the Harbourview Restaurant noted for their seafood chowder.
Branch Trail Mount Stewart to Georgetown
The Mount Stewart to Georgetown section is a moderate 39 km trail that takes you through farmlands and provides views of the Hillsborough Heritage River. Mooney’s Pond at km 11 is a hidden gem you will not want to miss. Peake’s Tee is a great spot to stop and grab a bite to eat. You’ll be one with nature at kms 20-22 as you cycle through the wetlands, wildlife and wild orchids. Check out Canada’s smallest library at km 29 in Cardigan. Explore the seaside town of Georgetown at km 39.
Branch Trail Cardigan Junction to Montague
The branch trail from Cardigan Junction to Montague is an easy 10 km trail that will take you through wooded wetlands and vistas. Looking to take a break from cycling? Rent some golf clubs and test your swing at Brudenell River or Dundarave golf courses at km 3. You’ll reach the highest altitude of this section of the trail at km 3 on the Brudenell Bridge. Explore Montague’s train station where the Visitors Information Centre is located, marina and wharf at km 10. Learn the history of Eastern PEI at the Garden of the Gulf Museum in Montague at km 10. Relax with a pint while overlooking the beautiful Montague River at Copper Bottom Brewery or Bogside Brewing
Branch Trail New Harmony Junction to Souris
The New Harmony Junction to Souris section is an easy 8 km trail that takes you along the Souris River. Go for a swim at the Souris Beach Provincial Park and enjoy the warmest waters north of the Carolinas.