The Confederation Trail is a 449-kilometer multi-use trail that spans across Prince Edward Island (PEI), Canada. Originally built on the abandoned railway lines, this scenic trail stretches from Tignish in the west to Elmira in the east, with several branch trails leading to different towns and coastal areas.
It is a year-round destination, perfect for cycling, hiking, and nature walks in the warmer months and snowmobiling in winter. The trail offers breathtaking views of rolling countryside, charming villages, lush forests, rivers, and coastal landscapes, making it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Activities & Attractions
- Cycling & Biking
- The trail is one of Canada’s best cycling routes, with well-maintained gravel paths suitable for all skill levels.
- You can rent bikes from various locations along the trail.
- Long-distance cyclists can complete the entire trail over multiple days, stopping at charming towns, cafes, and historic sites along the way.
- Hiking & Walking
- Enjoy peaceful nature walks while spotting wildflowers, birds, and small wildlife.
- Several scenic lookouts provide stunning views of coastlines, rivers, and PEI’s iconic red soil landscapes.
- Geocaching
- The Confederation Trail is famous for geocaching, a fun treasure-hunting activity using GPS coordinates.
- Over 1,600 geocaches are hidden along the trail, making it one of the largest geocaching networks in Canada.
- Birdwatching & Wildlife Viewing
- Spot bald eagles, herons, foxes, and other wildlife while exploring the trail.
- Several sections pass through protected wetlands and forests, perfect for birdwatching.
- Winter Activities
- During the winter months (December to March), the trail is open for snowmobiling, attracting winter sports enthusiasts.
- Some sections are also used for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
- Fishing & Picnicking
- Several areas along the trail have rivers and streams ideal for fishing.
- Enjoy a relaxing picnic at scenic rest areas with benches and shelters.
Best Time to Visit
- Spring (April – June): Ideal for hiking and cycling, as nature comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery.
- Summer (July – September): The most popular time to visit, with warm weather, vibrant landscapes, and plenty of festivals and events in nearby towns.
- Fall (October – November): Perfect for experiencing autumn foliage, cool temperatures, and fewer crowds.
- Winter (December – March): Best for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on the groomed trails.
Additional Information
- Total Length: 449 km (Main trail: 273 km, Side trails: 176 km)
- Difficulty Level: Easy to moderate (gravel surface, mostly flat)
- Entry Fee: Free
- Ideal For: Cyclists, hikers, nature lovers, families, and adventure seekers
- Nearby Attractions: Cavendish Beach, Greenwich Dunes, Charlottetown, and historic Acadian villages