Ride 1
Aboiteau Beach
Scenic Beauty
Variety abounds. A short ride here showcases huge dunes, a pristine beach, pleasant boardwalks, a thriving marsh and forested gravel trails.
Safety
80% car free paths. Riders need to be aware of heavy traffic on highway 133 but thankfully a wide shoulder exists on both sides of the road.
Fun Factor
If you love beaches, you’ll love this ride.
Ride update as of May 30, 2023:
In September of 2022, Hurricane Fiona caused significant damage in southeastern New Brunswick. Fiona’s force caused the boardwalks at Plage Aboiteau Beach to lift up and float away into the marsh. The Regional Town of Cap‑Acadie has posted an update on their website.
Most of the ride as documented is still doable, but do be aware that the boardwalks are closed. Check Plage Aboiteau Beach’s website or Facebook page for future updates.
Driving directions:
Drive 18 km east of Shediac on Highway 133. Turn right into the parking lot of Cap-Pelé Parc Plein Air. Alternatively, continue approximately 1 km further and turn left at the lights and then take your first left into the main entrance into Plage Aboiteau Beach.
Route description:
If you parked at Parc Plein Air, ride various loops on the trails here before crossing over the highway to explore the Aboiteau Beach trail. Just poke about on this ride–it presents lots to explore in a very small area.
Notes:
1. The marsh area is flat and open so expect fierce winds on gusty days. Pick a relatively calm day for this ride.
2. Lock your bike to a rack near the beach and enjoy a stroll or lunch on the beach. Hot summer days bring out many beach-goers so be prepared to share the sand or pick a cooler day.
3. Parc Plein Air is pleasant any time of year but particularly shines during the fall colours.
4. The trails at Cap-Pelé Parc Plein Air are sometimes referred to as the Hibou Blanc trails.
5. When Plage Abouiteau Beach is “open” during the summer months, lifeguards are on duty, water quality is monitored and parking fees are collected. Bicycles and pedestrians are always free.
6. Talks continue about a possible mega campground in the woods behind the marsh. If plans go ahead, move this ride from “do it” to skip it”. A campground would degrade the environment and scenic beauty, not to mention bring hoards of people.
The dead-end road headed toward the wharf.
Parc Plein Air
Busy beach in the off-season….
The boardwalk over the marsh at Plage Aboiteau Beach
Aboiteau trails in the spring