Ride 9
Petit-Témis
Scenic Beauty
The Petit-Témis bike path parallels the alluring Madawaska River for the entire length of this ride. To avoid the sights and smells of the mill, start from République provincial park rather than downtown Edmundston.
Safety
Not much to worry about here. 100% crusher dust car-free path with an option to detour onto paved Old Route 2 for a section.
Fun Factor
Since the route is almost entirely on an old railbed, the route is flat and straight but frequent river views entertain the rider.
Make sure you take some time to enjoy the view.
Driving directions:
Drive 10 km west of Edmundston on Highway 2, then take Exit 8 into République Provincial Park. The park has a large parking lot and a nice campground.
Route description:
This 40 km out-and-back route can be ridden all in one day. Better yet, break it into two. If camping at République Provincial park, go east towards Edmundston one day and west (towards Quebec) another.
Notes:
1. The Petit-Temis trail continues west into Quebec, all the way to Rivière-du-Loup. It would make a wonderful overnight or multi-day bike touring trip.
https://www.petit-temis.ca/english/node/129
2. This trail goes by many names: The Great Trail, the Trans Canada Trail, the Méruimticook Trail. And finally, yes the Petit-Témis Bike Path.
3. The Méruimticook Trail crosses the 4 lane highway just before the Quebec border and ascends steeply into the hills. Beyond this point, it is only suitable for hikers. Continue straight to the border instead.
4. If you are on a mountain bike and really want to spice things up, add in some Sentiers Madawaska Mountain Bike Trails. (Trail fees apply) The easy Familial Trail has no real technical features but sometimes gets a bit overgrown.
5. Tourism Edmundston produces a high-quality map. It is available for free at the provincial park office.
Tourism brochures rarely give you the entire picture but we do. Sadly, the pulp mill is located beside this picnic area in downtown Edmundston. I get it: no mill, no town, no bike path. Just be aware of wind direction if you plan to continue into town and aren’t used to pulp mill stink. Or better yet, turn around at the golf course and avoid downtown altogether.