Madawaska

Sentier NB Trail/Trans Canada Trail: Madawaska County, named after the river that feeds the St. John, is made up of a number of Francophone communities who often refer to the region as the Republic of Madawaska. This region shares a great deal with Aroostook County in Maine and many historical events show up in the records from both regions. The trails are one of best ways to explore these communities and the unique culture and history that they embody.

One of the most utilized and well-known trails in the Province is the Petit Témis linear park. This path runs 130 km from Edmunston, New Brunswick to Rivière-du-Loup, Québec. This is the first inter-provincial bike path to link two provinces. It is situated on an abandoned rail bed so the grades are gentle with a crushed gravel surface. From Edmunston to the Québec border and on to Cabano the trail follows the Madawaska River and the 40 km long Lake Témiscouata. Rest areas and parking are common through out the length of the trail.

Other trails in the area include short sections of community trail in Rivière-Verte, Ste-Anne-de-Madawaska, and St. Léonard. These trails average about 3 km in length and are great ways of discovering the communities through which they pass.

Trail conditions: All of the trails in this region are well maintained and easy riding for the whole family. Finding the trails from Edmunston to the Québec border is easy but don't expect the same for other trail sections in the region.

Longest continuous section: 20 km (Edmunston to Québec border)

Trail connections: The Petit Témis continues from the Québec border all the way to Rivière-du-Loup.

Features: Bring your binoculars with you on any of these trails; this is a birdwatcher's paradise. Don't forget to visit the New Brunswick Botanical Gardens, a must see for anyone with even the smallest passion for gardening or flowers. The area also sports a myriad of day adventures, great festivals and a strong sense of culture.

Other trails in the region: