PEI Winter Activities: Trails & Outdoor Exploration

Prince Edward Island Trails Flourish in Winter, Offering Diverse Outdoor Recreation

Despite the chill, Prince Edward Island’s trail systems are experiencing robust use this winter, with opportunities for snowshoeing, hiking, and fat biking attracting Islanders and visitors alike. Both Cycling P.E.I. and Island Trails report strong engagement, challenging the notion that the colder months necessitate indoor confinement.

Confederation Trail Access Limited, But Options Abound

While the province’s longest trail, the Confederation Trail, currently restricts access to snowmobile riders – and is managed and groomed by the P.E.I. Snowmobile Association – exceptions remain within the city limits of Summerside and Charlottetown. These sections remain open for walkers throughout the winter. Beyond this iconic path, a wealth of other groomed trails provide ample opportunities for outdoor adventure.

Groomed Trails Across P.E.I. Cater to Diverse Users

Cycling P.E.I. is actively grooming several trail networks this winter, including Rotary Friendship Park in Summerside, the Brookvale Demo Woodlot, Glasgow Hills, the Acadian Forest trails in Charlottetown, and the Cardigan trails in eastern P.E.I. According to Jordan Bober, executive director of Cycling P.E.I., these trails are primarily prepared for fat biking, but welcomes all users who adhere to basic trail etiquette.

“We want everyone to enjoy the trails responsibly,” Bober stated in a recent interview on CBC’s Island Morning.

The Hazard of Postholes and Responsible Trail Use

A key concern for trail maintenance organizations is the creation of postholes – deep indentations left in the snow by hikers whose weight isn’t adequately supported by their footwear. These postholes can harden during freeze-thaw cycles, creating hazards for cyclists and other trail users.

“When those postholes then go through… thaw cycles, they become hard, and then they become a hazard, and also difficult to navigate for other users, as you can imagine if you’re going over that with a bike or even potentially with snowshoes,” Bober explained. He emphasized that many trails feature signage reminding users to utilize snowshoes when conditions warrant.

High Traffic Mitigates Posthole Issues on Some Trails

Bryson Guptill, director of trail maintenance with Island Trails, noted that high traffic volume on some systems helps to minimize posthole formation. “After you’ve had 20 walkers through, you’ve already got a solid base,” said Guptill, who is also the founder of the 700-kilometre Island Walk. However, he cautioned that conditions can change rapidly, particularly after heavy snowfall, and recommended snowshoe use in deeper snow. He also advised walkers to prepare for icy conditions and consider using grippers on their boots.

Fat Biking and Snowshoe Rentals Expand Access

For those interested in exploring winter cycling, Bober highlighted the benefits of fat bikes, particularly those equipped with studded tires. “There is a big difference between studded and non-studded fat bikes, with the studded option being far superior for grip when there is ice on the trails,” he said. Rentals are available at Glasgow Hills and the Mark Arendz Provincial Ski Park at Brookvale. Both locations also offer snowshoe rentals, alongside options through some municipalities and the province’s public library system.

Popular Winter Routes and Safety Considerations

Island Trails highlights the Winter River Trail in Queens County, the Boughton River Trail in eastern P.E.I., and Forestview Trail in western P.E.I. as popular winter destinations. Guptill emphasized that winter is a busy season for P.E.I.’s trails, with hiking groups often numbering 20 people or more. However, he cautioned against overdressing, advising hikers to wear layers and carry extra clothing in a backpack.

Staying Informed About Trail Conditions

Both organizations encourage users to check trail conditions before heading out. Island Trails provides updates on its website, while real-time conditions are often shared within the Island Walking Trails Facebook group, which boasts over 8,000 members. Cycling P.E.I. maintains a winter riding page with grooming reports and shares updates via social media, including the P.E.I. Trails Report Facebook group. For those seeking less-traveled options, Guptill recommended Forest Hill in eastern P.E.I., while Bober suggested Glasgow Hills, P.E.I.’s newest groomed trail network, offering approximately 10 kilometres of trails and on-site bike rentals.