St. Peters to Souris (Option A: 38.5km/24mi Option B: 76.3km/47.4mi)
Returning to the trail, follow it east through apple trees, blackberry bushes, green fields, and scenic wetland. Entering a dense, continuous forest, you'll ride on a gradual uphill until arriving at Harmony Junction, where the trail either continues east to its most easterly point in Elmira or branches south to Souris. Be sure to pick up lunch before leaving town today, as there are no amenities between St. Peters and Souris (or between St. Peters and Elmira). Depending on your energy level and interests, you have two very different route options. Note: the main reason for choosing Option B is to get to the Confederation Trail's eastern point and visit Basin Head Beach. This is a longer route and should only be attempted by avid and confident cyclists. Option A: Total 38.5km/24mi, taking the branch south at Harmony Junction to Souris. The first half of this trail winds its way through a tall hardwood forest of maple, yellow birch and beech trees. The second half affords more lookouts as you descend towards Souris. The final stretch takes you through the town under a canopy of trees, through a small tunnel, and around a bend opening up a rewarding view of sailboats and the historic Souris East Lighthouse. Souris is the original terminus of the main rail line (Elmira was added years afterward), so if you don't make it all the way out to Elmira, you can still be satisfied in knowing that you made it to the 'end of the line.' Option B: Total 76.3km/47.4mi, heading to the eastern point of the Confederation Trail at Elmira, then backtracking 8km/5mi back on the trail and turning south on the back roads to Basin Head Provincial Park to dip your toes at one of the most popular beaches on the island. Enjoy a well-deserved beach break before heading back out to route 16 and onto the backroads, which meet up with the Confederation Trail on the outskirts of Souris, completing your tour by cycling to the end of the line. Meals: B