Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Is the trail free to use?
A. Yes, the trail is free to use, however we encourage all users to consider making a tax deductible donation. As a non-profit organization, donations are vital to helping us maintain the quality of the trail.
Q. What kind of bike do I need?
A. The trail surface is made of compacted rock so most bikes are fine. There are however natural elements that can be found on the trail such as branches, rocks… even turtles!, so if you have a very specialized road bike you might want to keep this in mind.
Q. Where can I park and how can I get on the trail?
A. There are several parking lots available for trail users. The biggest one is at the start of the trail in the town of Ayer’s Cliff (behind the municipal library). Visit our Access & Points of Interest page for all the parking locations and access points.
Q. I am interested in volunteering on the trail, how can I become involved?
A. Great! As the trail is run by volunteers we appreciate all the help we can get. Please visit our contact us page.
Q. Is the trail suitable for birdwatching and nature observation?
Yes! The trail offers an abundance of wildlife and flora to be discovered. Visit our Flora and Fauna page for details. If you are using cameras, binoculars etc.. just keep in mind when setting up gear that the trail is also used by numerous cyclists, so equipment should be placed safely to the sides of the trail.
Q. Does the trail connect to the Newport Bike Path in Vermont (USA)?
A. It is possible to cross the border and to continue onto the bike trail in Vermont. To do this however, you need to go through customs in Stanstead and require a passport. Once through customs, take the first road on the right (Derby Road) and go for about 3 km. The entrance for the Newport Bike Path is on the left at the bottom of a hill. Look for the sign indicating a bicycle and pedestrian.
Q. How hard is it to bike/hike the trail?
A. As the trail is built on an old rail-trail, it is very flat and easy to use. There is a small incline/decline near the start of the trail where the trail passes under the road, but apart from this, the rest of the trail is relatively flat.
Q. Are dogs allowed on the trail?
A. Yes, dogs are allowed on the trail, but must be kept on a leash for safety reasons. Per Québec law, leashes must not be more than 1.85m (6ft) in length, and dogs over 20kg (44lbs) must have a halter or harness. Please also be sure to pick-up after your dog.
Q. Is the trail open in the winter?
Yes, the trail is open in the winter, however the trail is not groomed. Most people opt to use snowshoes, cross-country skis or fat bikes in the winter.
Q. Is the trail ever closed?
The trail is open year round, but closes for a few weeks in the spring to allow for the spring thaw. The trail also closes in the fall during hunting season. The best is to follow our Facebook page to be kept in the loop of trail closures.
Q. I would like to make a donation to the trail, how can I do that?
A. Wonderful! Please visit our donation page for more information.
Q. Where can I rent a bike?
A. The city of Ayer’s Cliff offers a bike rental service. To make a reservation, please call the city of Ayer’s Cliff (819) 838-5006, or visit the Ayer’s Cliff website for details.
Q. I own a local business, how can I become a trail sponsor?
A. We are grateful for the support of our corporate partners and local business sponsors. If you are interested in sponsoring the trail, contact us.
Q. Is camping allowed on the trail
A. Camping is not allowed on the trail. However, there are several camp sites in the area, please visit the Eastern Townships Tourism website for details.
Q. Will my mobile phone work on the trail?
A. There are several locations along the trail where there is no cell phone reception, so please keep this in mind.
Q. Who owns and operates the trail?
A. On December 15, 2025 the donation act was signed at the notary’s office and the Massawippi Conversation Trust became the official owners of the trail and surrounding properties. We are profoundly grateful for all that the original founders have done and their confidence in our stewardship of the property and trail in perpetuity.
Q. How do I report trail damage or issues on the trail?
A. As the trail is 19 KM long, we appreciate your feedback! Please contact us with details of the issue, along with the KM location, the nearest cross-road if possible, and include a photo if you can. For all emergencies, please call 911.
