Hiking Homestead Trail In Prince Edward Island

The Homestead Trail is a popular hiking, running, snowshoeing and cycling trail that offers up to 10 km worth of gravel trails in the Prince Edward National Park. It is an easy trail with little to no elevation that features breathtaking views of New London Bay and sand dunes.

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Key Features Of Homestead Trail

• Part of the Prince Edward Island National Park
• A scenic and relatively easy hiking trail
• Features two trails: Simpson Loop (6 km) and MacNeill Loop (10 km)
• Great for hiking, biking and snowshoeing
• Dog-friendly (on leash)
• Offers picturesque views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence
• Passes through lush forests and coastal landscapes
• Provides opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sightings
• Interpretive signs along the trail for educational insights
• Suitable for hikers of various skill levels

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Facilities And Services

• Parking
• Outhouses
• Picnic Tables
• Garbage Bins

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Before You Start Hiking Homestead Trail

Although this is a relatively easy and flat trail, there are a few things to note before you begin.

The Homestead Trail is a well-maintained trail that offers two loops with varying lengths. If you are up for a longer hike, the MacNeill Loop features 10 km of trail. Meanwhile, the Simpson Loop is 6 km. The trail is relatively quiet and has numerous picnic tables, lookouts, trail markers and maps.

It is important to note that there is little to no shade coverage. Make sure to wear sunscreen and bring a hat. In the summer, it’s best to hike in the early morning to avoid overly hot temperatures.

As always, whenever hiking in Nova Scotia, we encourage hikers to carry a tick removal tool. We personally bring our Atlantick Tool Kit on every hike, and we use the Atlantick Spray to help deter ticks.

It is important to follow the Leave No Trace Principles whenever you are out enjoying nature. Whatever you take in, be sure to take out.

Dogs are welcome as long as they are on a leash. There is a chance of encountering wildlife, such as coyotes, along the trail. Keeping your dog on a leash helps to keep your pets and wildlife safe.

If a coyote approaches you, it is important to do the following:

• Back away slowly
• Do not run
• Raise your hands or hiking poles above your head to act big
• Make noise
• If possible, throw stones

In case of a coyote attack, it is important to fight back and defend yourself.

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Our Experience Hiking Homestead Trail

We explored the Homestead Trail in September after a busy weekend of visiting friends and attending a wedding. The weather was relatively cool, so the little to no shade was not much of a bother for us.

As I walked along the Homestead Trail in the heart of Prince Edward Island, we found ourselves immersed in a captivating blend of coastal beauty and forest tranquillity. The trail is well-defined and easy to follow. Here are a few photos of the trail.

A bit further down the trail, the forest gave way to breathtaking vistas of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The sight of the rolling waves and the crisp ocean breeze was quite calming.

The Homestead Trail proved to be a delightful trail suitable for hikers of all levels. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a birdwatcher, or simply seeking a peaceful escape in the heart of Prince Edward Island, this trail is an absolute gem. It’s a reminder of the island’s natural beauty and a journey well worth taking.

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Checklists And Recommended Gear

• Water Bottle
• Insect repellent
• Comfortable walking or hiking shoes – Women’s // Men’s
• Sunscreen
• Sun hat
• Camera
• Cascade Hiking Poles (optional)
• Atlantick Tick Removal Tool Kit
• Atlantick Spray

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Related Hikes

NEARBY HIKES

• Cavendish Dunelands
• Gulf Shore Way West
• Clark’s Lane Trail
• Cavendish Beach Trail
• Haunted Wood
• Balsam Hollow