Hike Placentia Celebrates Launch of the Placentia Loop Trail System

Community members, partners, supporters, and outdoor enthusiasts gathered at the Hike Placentia Information Centre on Saturday, June 13, to celebrate the official launch of The Placentia Loop, the newest addition to the Hike Placentia trail network.

The event marked the completion of Phase 2 of the Hike Placentia project and brought together representatives from government, community organizations, funding partners, and local residents to recognize the collaborative effort behind the trail system.

Guests were welcomed by members of the Hike Placentia Committee. Special guests included MHA Sherry Gambin-Walsh, Mayor Jamie Neville, Erin Kearsey, Economic Development Officer with ACOA Newfoundland and Labrador Region, and Angie Dober, Economic Development Officer, Department of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development, Newfoundland and Labrador

The launch also celebrated several recent milestones, including the unveiling of the new Hike Placentia website and social media platforms. The website provides trail information, maps, historical content, and resources for visitors looking to explore the region. Trail information is also available through provincial tourism channels, as well as the AllTrails and Geocaching applications.

The day’s activities included an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, guided community hikes, trail tours, contests, prize draws, and a community barbecue. Participants had the opportunity to explore sections of the trail network, including the family-friendly Old Railway Trail and the Backlands Trail, which features scenic lookouts overlooking Argentia and Placentia.

The Hike Placentia Committee extends its sincere gratitude to all funding agencies and partners whose support helped make this project possible. Funding support was provided by the Government of Canada, Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador through the Department of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development.

The Committee also acknowledges the valued support of its project partners, including the Town of Placentia, Placentia Chamber of Commerce, Placentia Lions Club, Port of Argentia, and the Placentia Historical Society.

Special thanks were extended to the Community Connections Housing Coalition for the use of transportation services and to the Placentia Chamber of Commerce for administering the project. The Committee also recognized the contributions of project staff, volunteers, and community partners whose efforts helped make the launch a success.

As the project continues to grow, planning is already underway for future trail development, including a proposed Phase 3 connection between the Command Centre and Castle Hill. The Committee also encourages community members interested in becoming trail stewards to get involved and help support the long-term success of the trail system.

The launch of The Placentia Loop represents another exciting step forward in showcasing the natural beauty, history, and outdoor recreation opportunities that make the Placentia region a unique destination for residents and visitors alike.

To learn more, visit www.hikeplacentia.ca and follow Hike Placentia on Facebook.