The Millennium Trail follows an old rail corridor that the county bought from Canadian National Railway in 1997 and turned into a recreation path. It is described as about 46 kilometres on the county tourism site, a figure that some sources put a little higher, and it runs from Carrying Place through Consecon, Wellington and Bloomfield to Picton. Because it is a former rail bed, it is flat and gradual, which suits walkers, cyclists and families. Hiking access points are at Picton, Wellington, Bloomfield and Consecon, and you can join anywhere along the way. In winter the same corridor is shared with snowmobilers, so it works as a year-round route.
What to do
Pick a stretch and walk or cycle it. The section between Wellington and Bloomfield is a popular choice because it links two of the county's best villages, with cafes and shops at either end. Short out-and-back walks work well from any access point, and the trail passes through farmland and open country between the villages. Bring a bike if you want to cover more ground, since the gentle gradient makes long rides easy, and note that the surface can be gravel or limestone dust rather than pavement.
Seasons and planning
The trail is open to visitors through the cooler months and the county's tourism pages describe winter use by snowmobilers, so expect shared use and check conditions before you go. No season dates are published, which is normal for a public rail trail. The county trails committee, PEC Trails, publishes the permitted uses and any closures, so look there for current notices. Wear layers, since the corridor is exposed to wind, and carry water because services are in the villages rather than on the trail.
Fitting it in
Allow one to three hours for a walk or ride of a few kilometres, or a half day for a longer section. Wellington and Picton are the main trailheads for visitors, and Bloomfield makes a good midpoint with a coffee stop. The trail pairs with a winery visit, since several tasting rooms are a short ride off the line. If the weather turns, switch to a tasting or one of the towns and return to the trail another day.
What to expect
The experience
A flat, gradual former railway path across the county, used on foot or by bike, with access points in the main villages.
Best time
Spring to autumn for cycling; in winter the trail is shared with snowmobilers, so expect different conditions.
How long
One to three hours for a walk or ride of a few kilometres, or a half day for a long stretch.
Tips
Join at Wellington, Bloomfield or Picton, carry water, expect a gravel or limestone surface and check PEC Trails for notices.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Walkers and cyclists who want an easy, flat route between the county's villages.
- Families
- The gentle gradient and the lack of traffic make it a good family ride, especially around Wellington and Bloomfield.
- Couples
- Cycle from Wellington to Bloomfield and stop for coffee or a tasting along the way.
- Pair with
- Wellington, Bloomfield, Picton and the wineries a short distance off the line.
- Time needed
- One to three hours for a short stretch, a half day for a longer ride.
Good questions
How long is the Millennium Trail?+
The county tourism site gives about 46 kilometres, with a later paragraph saying 49, so treat it as roughly 46 to 49. It runs from Carrying Place to Picton along an old rail line.
Is the trail open in winter?+
Yes, the corridor stays in use through the cold months, but it is shared with snowmobilers. Check conditions and PEC Trails notices before you go.
Where can I join the trail?+
The county lists hiking access points in Picton, Wellington, Bloomfield and Consecon, and the Carrying Place end. Wellington and Bloomfield are the easiest for visitors.
Can I cycle it?+
Yes, cycling is a common use, and the gentle gradient suits it. The surface can be gravel or limestone dust, so a hybrid or gravel bike is more comfortable than a road bike.
Does it cost anything?+
No, it is a free public trail. You only pay for parking where a trailhead lot charges and for anything you buy in the villages.
