Islanders are being encouraged by trail groups to embrace the winter season and explore Prince Edward Island’s outdoor spaces. Activities like snowshoeing, hiking, and fat biking are gaining popularity on the well-maintained trail systems managed by Cycling P.E.I. and Island Trails.
While access to the Confederation Trail is limited in winter, sections within Summerside and Charlottetown remain open for walking. Other groomed options include Rotary Friendship Park, Brookvale Demo Woodlot, Glasgow Hills, Acadian Forest trails, and Cardigan trails, primarily groomed for fat biking but open to other users who follow trail etiquette.
To prevent postholes on groomed trails, it is advised not to walk in regular boots on unsupportive snow. Guptill from Island Trails recommends using grippers on boots for icy conditions. For those interested in winter cycling, renting fat bikes with studded tires is recommended for better grip on icy trails.
Popular winter routes recommended by Island Trails include the Winter River Trail, Boughton River Trail, and Forestview Trail. It is suggested not to overdress when heading out on winter trails to avoid overheating. Checking trail conditions on websites and social media pages before venturing out is recommended by both organizations.
Island Trails and Cycling P.E.I. provide updates on trail conditions through their websites and social media platforms. For a less crowded trail experience, Forest Hill in eastern P.E.I. is recommended, while Glasgow Hills offers a new groomed trail network with bike rentals for those looking to try winter riding for the first time.