Explore the Trail
The Skye River Trail will greet you with serenity, beauty and culture.
Bridge
Tree of a Thousand Faces
Orchard
Beach Area
Orchard
Stage
Kiosk
Waterway Access
What can I expect to find on the Skye River Trail?
The Skye River Trail is the heartbeat of We’koqma’q’s rich history and vibrant natural beauty. It invites you on a journey of discovery and connection.
As you wander through this sacred space, each step will unfold the stories of the Mi’kmaq people, the whispers of ancient forests, and the serene embrace of unspoiled landscapes.
Prepare to be embraced by a trail that is not just a path through nature, but a gateway to a deeper understanding of culture, community, and the spirit of the land itself.
PLEASE DO…
- Respect our beautiful trail and natural surroundings
- Share this beautiful and peaceful piece of nature with us
- Fish in the river and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature
- Learn about the uses of medicinal plants and herbs
- Share stories with us and take home wonderful memories and knowledge
PLEASE DON’T…
- Disrespect or destroy our beautiful trail and nature
- Enter the bridge/trail on a motorized vehicle
- Leave behind anything but quiet footprints and your stories
- Forget your time and experiences with us
- Keep this wonderful place a secret… (do tell your family and friends!)
Trail Highlights & Cultural Markers
Journey through the Skye River Trail to uncover its natural and cultural gems, from the serene Healing Forest itself to the educational QR codes and kiosks. These features guide you through a narrative of connection, heritage, and the dynamic spirit of We’koqma’q.
Longhouse
The Longhouse, realized through Eva Nicholas’ collaboration, revives an important cultural heritage in We’koqma’q. It stands as a space for community, ceremony, and learning, particularly for youth to connect with Mi’kmaq traditions. Its construction emphasized the communal resilience and the value of traditional gathering places. It’s a beacon of cultural preservation, offering a venue for ceremonies and cultural education, thereby strengthening community bonds and cultural identity.
Medicine Garden
A nurturing ground for healing and growth, offering a sacred space for all. Conceived as a haven for both people and nature, it’s cultivated with the wisdom of elders, who select traditional medicinal plants for inclusion. This garden symbolizes the community’s dedication to preserving and sharing the healing practices of their ancestors, ensuring these traditions continue to flourish for future generations.
Every Child Matters
A heart-shaped flower bed and a significant monument at its entrance, dedicated to honoring the journeys of Residential School Survivors and their families. This installation serves as a powerful symbol of the community’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation. Adorned with orange flowers and “Every Child Matters” flags, this bed stand as a reminder of a shared history and the steps toward healing and unity.
Tree of a Thousand Faces
This tree stands as a captivating landmark within the Skye River Trail. The tree’s unique presence and energy inspired the community to highlight it as a central gathering point for cultural events, even incorporating a specially constructed deck around it to facilitate these gatherings. This tree, therefore, not only enhances the natural beauty of the trail but also enriches its cultural significance, serving as a testament to the community’s connection to their environment and heritage.
MMIWG Sculpture
The MMIWG sculpture on the Skye River Trail is a solemn and powerful tribute to our Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. Embodying the pain and resilience of the We’koqma’q community, it stands against the backdrop of red dresses hanging from the trees—each one a poignant reminder of a life cut short. This monument, a call to action and reflection, honors the memories of those like Cassidy Bernard, representing a steadfast commitment to justice, safety, and the unyielding strength of the survivors and their families. It is a space of mourning, education, and hope, where the community’s voice in the pursuit of healing and change resonates deeply.
Veterans’ Memorial
The Veterans’ Memorial, a poignant tribute to the bravery and sacrifice of We’koqma’q’s veterans, stands solemnly along the Skye River Trail. Designed in collaboration with local artists, this sculpture embodies the community’s profound respect and honor for both those who served and those who never returned. Unveiled by esteemed community members Earl Gould and Clifford Copage, it serves as a lasting tribute to the valiant hearts and unwavering spirits of the community’s servicemen and women.