Parks Canada opening new trails on Robinson’s Island, PEI
New trails are being built on Robinson’s Island, in Prince Edward Island National Park. The new construction will include a series of technical mountain bike features that run on spur lines from the main multi-use loop.
Robinson’s Island has been going through a transition. The campground was closed in 2005. Since then, the park staff have been working to naturalize much of the area. It is a favourite location for hikers and birdwatchers, but park staff saw the opportunity for more.
“Parks Canada made the decision to build a multi-use trail on Robinson’s Island to attract more young families to visit by providing them with an additional opportunity to discover the park and try a new cycling experience,” said project manager Greg Shaw. “A family-friendly mountain biking destination is unique, providing something new and fun for everyone to enjoy.”
In order to help develop a high-quality trail, and compelling technical features along the trail, Parks Canada brought in the IMBA Canada Trail Care Crew.
“We worked with staff to imagine and design the overall trail network on Robinson’s Island, and then got out into the field to actually layout part of the trail corridor,” explained Rachael Raven of IMBA Canada.
The main trail loop will be a 1-m wide gravel surface with spur lines from the main trail that will take riders to more technical features. Construction on the trail will continue through the winter and spring.
“We anticipate that the new trails will be open for use in early June 2014,” said Shaw.
The 5-km loop will snake through woodlands and open fields, and will include beach access for visitors to explore the pristine beaches of Robinson’s Island.
Parks Canada has been developing more cycling opportunities in PEI after seeing increasing demand from visitors. Cyclists can travel on multi-use trails between Brackley, Dalvay, Cavendish and North Rustico, opening new ways to experience Prince Edward Island National Park.
For more information, visit www.parkscanada.gc.ca/pei.
