Samson Trail - Very Accessible
The Samson Trail may have more entrances than any other trail I’ve been to. I parked my vehicle and accessed it across from the Frenchy’s on Stellarton Road. You can access it through the Albion Trail off of Bridge Avenue in Stellarton, the Goodman Rotary Park in New Glasgow, Multiple points around the George Street Bridge, Terrace Street and Carmichael Park – Take your pick! As you see in the video, I took my time touring the area.
Some Nice Perks Heading Towards The Albion Trail
I started the tour around 2pm on a Friday afternoon during the New Glasgow Ribfest, so I didn’t come across too many others on the trail. I started to make a few observations during my travels. One thing I noticed was the trails were nice and wide, which would make it easier for runners, bicyclists, and walkers to coexist. The next thing i noticed were lots of benches for those who could benefit from rest periods. The benches also seemed to have In-memoriam plaques, which I thought was a very nice gesture.
More Trees And Railway Towards Stellarton
Aside from a couple short openings of the river, it’s mostly trees, buildings, and railway you’ll come across heading towards Stellarton. The Samson Trail was named after a locomotive, as the trail was built over the oldest iron railroad bed in Canada. Now the Albion Trail, You’ll pass underneath the 104, which is an interesting experience. You’ll then pass by a historic railway building on your left, then it’s mainly trees and benches until you hit your turnaround point at Bridge Avenue in Stellarton.
First Time Walking The Whole Trail
Mostly everything was a first for me on this day. Once I got back on to the Samson Trail, I came across a beautiful memorial area for the late Amber Kirwan. That was followed by passing through the Sobey Point Park, where there’s a few benches for you to sit and relax if you wish. I then filled up my water bottle at the hydration station, and made my way to the Goodman Rotary Park. The Goodman Rotary Park has a boat launch, an outdoor gym, plenty of areas for seating, and an excellent view of the East River, George Street Bridge, and Downtown New Glasgow. They also advertise that they have free Wifi!
George Street Bridge And West End
I then went underneath the George Street Bridge, where they have a pedestrian crossing from the West to East side of New Glasgow, which I thought was kind of neat! On the West End you’ll first come across a couple of map and sponsor bulletin boards, along with benches. You’ll also encounter a few Gazebo’s on the trail. It started to rain a little bit on me, but I continued on my journey, As you continue to head west on the Samson Trail you’ll find a couple spots where you can get a good view of the East River with the North End of New Glasgow in the Background. The Samson Trail eventually ends once it hits Terrace Street, not too far from the bottom of Cameron Avenue.
A Good Trail For Being in Town
The Samson Trail gives you a nice break from the downtown atmosphere. I believe it would be an excellent place to go for a walk and clear your head. It has lot of benches if you’re a person who doesn’t want to walk far, and the trail is also nice and flat. The trail is open all year round, and it’s dog friendly, so long as the dogs are kept on leash and you clean up after them. There are also washrooms located at the Goodman Rotary Park. If you’re interested in another one of my tours in Pictou County, check out Melmerby Beach Provincial Park Walking Tour. Thank you for reading my post!
