Cycling & Trails
Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail
72 km of flat, scenic trail on a former railway — perfect for cycling, walking, and winter activities. The trail passes right through Hammond, near Cheney Mini Mart.
Cheney Mini Mart — Right on the Trail Route!
Water, snacks, ice & bike-friendly pit stop
About the Trail
The Prescott-Russell Recreational Trail is a 72 km (45 mi) former rail trail running from the Quebec border at Saint-Eugène to the eastern boundary of Ottawa. The trail follows the former Canadian Pacific railway line between Ottawa and Montreal, with rails lifted in 1986 and the trail officially opened in 2006.
Trail Uses
- Cycling (all skill levels)
- Walking & Jogging
- Snowmobiling (winter)
- Cross-country skiing
- Snowshoeing
Not Permitted
- ATVs / Off-road vehicles
- Horseback riding (on main trail)
Note: Horseback riding is allowed on the Prescott-Russell Trail Link
🚴 Trail Surface
The trail surface is mainly stone dust, with paved sections near population centres like Bourget and Hammond. The former railway bed makes the trail very flat — ideal for casual cyclists and families.
Trail Route & Communities
The trail passes through: Clarence-Rockland → Alfred and Plantagenet → The Nation → Champlain → East Hawkesbury → Saint-Eugène
Six Pavilions Along the Trail
Hammond Pavilion
Near Store- Rest area
- Near Cheney Mini Mart
Bourget Pavilion
- Historic railway station
- Parking
Plantagenet Pavilion
- South Nation River bridge view
- Parking
Alfred Pavilion
- Rest area
- Village access
Vankleek Hill Pavilion
- Town amenities nearby
Saint-Eugène Pavilion
- Eastern terminus
- Quebec border
Notable Sights
Historic Railway Station
The former railway station in Bourget — a reminder of the trail's railway heritage.
South Nation River Bridge
Scenic crossing near Plantagenet with beautiful river views.
Farmland & Forest
The trail passes through scenic farmland with forested sections throughout.
Village Access
Easy access to services in Alfred, Plantagenet, Bourget, and Hammond.
Road Cycling Network
Beyond the recreational trail, Prescott-Russell offers over 200 km of paved shoulders on quiet countryside roads, with over 29 mapped cycling routes.
Popular Routes
- • 62 km Casselman-St. Albert-Russell-Embrun loop
- • 104 km River & Trail loop
- • Various shorter family-friendly routes
Highlights Along Routes
- • St. Albert and Casselman village stops
- • St. Albert Cheese factory & boutique
- • Local farm stands
Trail Tips
Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water — stop at Cheney Mini Mart to refill!
Watch for Hazards
Mosquitoes in summer, poison ivy and wild parsnip along edges.
Sun Protection
Limited shade on open sections — bring sunscreen and a hat.