This is the newest addition to Nipigon’s inventory of world class recreation trails. You can start anywhere along the route. The best place to start is at the Bridgeview Tower Lookout, where there is plenty of parking. To travel clockwise on the route, start on the path towards the Nipigon River Bridge. Follow the pedestrian walkway under the bridge, and head to the middle of the bridge for the best view of Lake Helen. When you are ready to move on, head back to the west side of the bridge, and follow the ramp down towards the river. Go under the bridge, and find the old railway line that hugs the river. Follow the rail trail along the river. When you get to the lagoon, you can spur off to the Turtle Point Boardwalk to your right.

To complete the loop, continue along the rail line to cross “black bridge”. Continue along the trail until you reach the steps on your right. Go up the steps and turn right to continue up to downtown Nipigon. Turn right on Front St. and continue the loop. Feel free to explore the many shops and restaurants, take a rest at Rotary or Paddle to the Sea Park – or continue walking. Finish the loop by heading east down Front St., cross the tracks, and turn right on Railway St. to continue back up to where you began – at the lookout!

The trail features so many great spots and if you are in town for a short amount of time and you want to stop and enjoy each point on the trail, I would say give yourself approximately 90 to 120 minutes.