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Sentier
NB Trail: Built mostly on abandoned rail line, this trail features
spectacular seaside views, the smell of salt air, and an insight
into the lively Acadian culture.
Beginning
in the thriving town of Tracadie-Sheila, the trail pushes northward
towards Inkerman through the low-lying salt marshes, which characterize
the peninsula. The sandy soils and salt marshes, the product of
thousands of years of sediment deposition by the winds and ocean,
bring this area to life. Long sections of trail give you ample opportunity
to view the plentitude of waterfowl, berry fields, and wild flowers
or to gaze introspectively at the fishing vessels working the sparkling
blue waters of the Gulf of Saint Lawrence.
After
crossing shallow Lake Pokemouche at Inkerman, the trail splits,
one branch heading northwest towards Caraquet, the other carrying
on northeast towards Shippagan.
Nestled
between Chaleur Bay and the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, Shippagan is
the centre of the commercial fishing industry in northern New Brunswick.
The seafaring tradition of the community is as alive today as it
was in the past with the largest fleet of inshore and offshore fishing
vessels in New Brunswick calling the harbour home.
Moving
overland towards Caraquet, the relief of the topography increases
slightly. With this comes taller trees and the appearance of more
frequent hardwood stands interspersed between the many bodies of
water winding their way to the ocean. Before you know it, the smell
of salt air fills your nostrils once again as you find yourself
in the capital of Acadia - Caraquet. Situated on the bluffs overlooking
the bay, which shares its name, Caraquet is a hub of activity. Plenty
of lodging, a vibrant nightlife, and a deeply rooted Acadian tradition
make Caraquet a jewel worth examining closely.
From
Caraquet the trail follows the coastline to Grande-Anse and Pokeshaw
and then down to Bathurst. This stretch of shoreline is dotted with
picturesque churches and seaside views of clay cliffs and small
fishing and farming communities.
Trail
Conditions: Expect the trail from Bathurst to Pokeshaw to be
rough in spots. A mountain bike is needed for this stretch. The
rest of the trail both in the city of Bathurst and from Pokeshaw
to Tracadie is in good shape.
Longest
continuous section: 120 km (Pokeshaw to Shippgan and Tracadie-Sheila)
Features:
Maritime and Acadian culture is the trade of this trail. Each community
offers a piece of Acadian history and hospitality as well as spectacular
seaside views. Look for day adventures, theatre experiences, and
historical sites such as the Acadian Village.
Other
trails in the region:
Trail
Section: Tracadie to Grand Anse
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