Rum Runners Trail The Google rating is 4.5

The Rum Runners Trail is a 119 km (74 mi) multi-use trail, along former rail bed, connecting the historic city of Halifax and Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while passing through Hubbards, Chester, and Mahone Bay.

Great for off-road cycling or long-distance trekking, the easy, flat trail is perfect for exploring the vibrant coastal communities and nearby parks, beaches, and hiking trails. Savour local flavours at award-winning restaurants, explore attractions, and shop at a variety of artisan and specialty shops.

Community kiosks and interpretive panels along the trail provide a glimpse into the local history, environment and culture.

The Trail is part of the Blue Route provincial cycling network.

Trailheads
Multiple trailheads and access points. For locations and trail map, visit the Destination Trails Nova Scotia website.

Surface
Most of the trail is smooth and hard-packed.

Cycling Speed
20 km/hr (12 miles/hr)

The trail grade is almost flat with slight inclines. Hybrid or mountain bikes are best suited for the trail surface. Other uses include hiking, snowmobiling, cross country skiing, ATVing, equestrian, and geocaching.

Some highlights along the trail:

• Pick up picnic supplies at D & Jo’s Country Market in Timberlea, then head to the Bluff Wilderness Hiking Trail, which offers over 30km of looping wilderness trails.
• The Train Station Bike and Bean in Upper Tantallon is a heritage train station that has been cleverly converted into a café, bike repair and cycling supplies shop.
• Cool off with a swim or relax on the white sand at Cleveland Beach Provincial Park in Black Point, which also has vault toilets and picnic tables.
• Shore Club in Hubbards is Nova Scotia’s last great dance hall and known for their lobster dinners.
• Hubbards Barn & Community Park hosts a Saturday morning Farmers’ Market, which is the perfect place to meet local farmers and artisans, while picking up picnic ingredients.
• Enjoy panoramic views of Mahone Bay with a hike to Castle Rock, located on the trail in East River.
• Grave’s Island Provincial Park in East Chester is great for a picnic and includes a campground, washroom facilities, and waterview walking trails.
• Pedal or stroll through Chester’s downtown to discover studios, galleries and restaurants, such as The Kiwi Café and Rope Loft.
• The oceanview Oak Island Resort & Conference Centre in Western Shore offers restaurants, pools, spa, and activities, such as boat tours and kayak rentals.
• Try your hand at finishing a pewter keepsake, while learning how Amos Pewter in Mahone Bay handcrafts their jewellery and giftware.
• Relax with a pint of Dynamite Trail Ale at Saltbox Brewery in Mahone Bay.
• Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site is a bustling town with a vibrant culinary scene, many shops, artisans, and grand heritage inns and B&Bs. Tour by foot with Lunenburg Walking Tours or by horse-drawn carriage with Trot in Time Buggy Rides.
• Set sail aboard our sailing ambassador, Bluenose II or explore the many islands and hidden coves of Blue Rocks by kayak with Pleasant Paddling.