RUM RUNNERS TRAIL, NOVA SCOTIA
Nova Scotia’s Rum Runners Trail is part of a 3,000km network of cycling routes known as the “Blue Route”. The goal is to create a province-wide network of cycling infrastructure that makes it easier to get around the province on two wheels. The full Blue Route network is currently under development, but the Rum Runners Trail is ready to use.
Running from Halifax to Lunenburg, the Rum Runners Trail is 119km of off-road trails. Made up of seven separate but connected trails, the trail is operated by a collection of municipalities and volunteer trail organizations.
The trail is fairly level since it follows a converted railway line, and the terrain is mostly hard-packed crusher dust. The initial 7.5km section out of Halifax is the only paved part of the trail. Known as the Chain of Lakes Trail, it’s also the longest paved trail in Halifax and a very popular destination for outdoor activity.
Your journey along the Rum Runners Trail can take from one to three days, with a variety of accommodation options available along the way. This includes camping at provincial parks or staying at motels, bed and breakfasts and local inns. The route also connects to several picnic areas, restaurants and cafés, including the Bike and Bean inside a converted former train station.
Given the scenic location of the trail, you may want to plan stops along the way to take in the many coastal views, including the 3km hike to Castle Rock.
As you’ve likely guessed, the trail gets its name from Nova Scotia’s prohibition era (1921–1930) when rum runners were big suppliers of illegal alcohol. Although not specifically mentioned on the website, we confirmed with Bicycle Nova Scotia that pedal-assist e-bikes are permitted along the trail.