By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
The Massawippi Conservation Trust has recently expanded its already extensive trail system by adding 5.3 kilometres of new paths to its Massawippi trail in Ste. Catherine de Hatley. Mahicans Diamond, a trail maker with the Massawippi Foundation, shared insights into the trail’s construction and features during a recent interview, emphasizing the challenging terrain and unique layout of the new section. This addition brings the total length of the trail network to over 13 kilometres, offering hikers the chance to explore a diverse landscape ranging from mature forests to wetlands.
“This project is an extension of our existing trail system, which already had close to nine kilometres of trails,” said Diamond, adding that the new paths aren’t for the faint-hearted. “It’s difficult access, which means it’s really at the end of our existing network.”
An inverted hiking experience
Unlike traditional hiking trails that lead to a summit, the Massawippi trail begins at the top. Diamond described the unusual approach as an “upside-down concept,” with hikers parking at the top of the mountain and descending towards the main destination—a beach and viewpoint known for its relaxing atmosphere and swimming spots.
“Usually, you park at the bottom of the mountain, you climb up to the top of the mountain for the view and climb back down to the parking lot,” explained Diamond. “But we park at the top of the mountain, walk down through our main destination… and then you have to hike back, unfortunately.”
The hike to the beach and back forms part of a seven-kilometre round trip, but the new section of the trail adds even more variety. Depending on the loop chosen, visitors can expect up to 13 kilometres of trail, turning a leisurely hike into a half-day adventure. Diamond emphasized the need for preparation, stating, “You have to give yourself a good half day, bring some food and some water… it takes a fair amount of physical conditioning, too.”
