Park’s new mountain bike trail opens on International Trails Day

Alma, New Brunswick, May 28, 2013 -- Fundy National Park invites mountain bike enthusiasts and visitors to celebrate the opening of its newest mountain biking and hiking trail on Saturday, June 1 – International Trails Day. The name, Black Horse trail, hails from the 1960s when the trail was used by a local horse riding business. The riding stables were located in what is now the trailhead parking lot. It is the seventh trail in the park to open to mountain bikers and the first trail designed specifically for mountain bikes. It is also the first new trail to join the network of amazing trails in the park in over twenty years.

“This trail really complements our existing trail system and shows off another gorgeous area of Fundy National Park,” shares Blair Pardy, Field Unit Superintendant. “Parks Canada has responded to the mountain bike community’s request for a more technical, single-track trail in Fundy National Park and it has done so sustainably,” continues Mr. Pardy. The trail was built using the International Mountain Biking Association’s sustainable trails practices.

This family-friendly event will begin at 10am.The event will include a skills workshop aimed for youth and adult riders provided by Mike’s Bike Shop. A children’s bike rodeo will also be held from 10 am to 2 pm. Children of all ages can come and test their skills by bicycling around cones, curves, and lines. Make sure you don’t forget your helmet.

Of course, all riders are welcome to enjoy the 6.2k Black Horse loop in a poker run, gathering cards around the trail. Those with the best hand win. Prizes donated by Mike’s Bike Shop will be drawn at 2 pm. In addition, a staff person from the store will be on hand with tools and tubes providing their services for anyone with a flat tire or who needs a quick repair. They also hope to have some great demo bikes available.

After the ride, bikers can grab some BBQ food and beverages for a few dollars in support of the Alma Volunteer Fire Department.

For those interested in camping, reservations can be made by contacting the Parks Canada Campground Reservation Service at 1-877-737-3783 or at www.pccamping.ca. Both serviced and non-serviced sites will be open. For visitors who plan to visit the park more than five days, a season’s pass is worth it. They are available at the early bird rate until June 14. Passes can be purchased at any National Park or online at www.pc.gc.ca . For more information about Park or the Mountain Bike Festival, find us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FundyNP, call Fundy National Park at 506-887-6000 or visit us online at www.pc.gc.ca/fundy.

-30-

About Fundy National Park: On the coast of the Bay of Fundy, Fundy National Park offers an exceptional array of experiences to its visitors. In 2013, Fundy National Park will add oTENTiks, increase the number campsites with services, and add to its interpretation programs. Parks Canada is a world leader in managing protected areas and continues to work to ensure that Canada’s historic and natural heritage is presented and protected for the enjoyment, education and appreciation of all Canadians, today and in the future.

Information:

Bronwyn Pavey
External Relations
Fundy National Park
506-887-6394 or 506-227-4705
bronwyn.pavey@pc.gc.ca

Twitter: @FundyNP
www.Facebook.com/FundyNP