For twenty-two years I lived in the same house, in the same town, around the same people. I was born and raised in Kentville, Nova Scotia, the beautiful Annapolis Valley. Since marrying my husband in 2013, I’ve found myself waking up in a vary of places.
Before moving to Quinte West, my husband and I lived in Shilo, Manitoba, where he worked as an infanteer with 2PPCLI, the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry Second Battalion. Prior to that move we lived in Petawawa, and Newfoundland as well. We moved to Trenton in August 2016, as many do, because of a job opportunity at CFB Trenton.
Being a military spouse has given me multiple opportunities to start fresh, and our move to Quinte West is the first place where I’ve taken advantage of that. I launched my photography business when we moved here, and it has pushed me to get out, camera in hand, and shoot.
The Bay of Quinte is an incredibly photogenic area; thanks to its many conservation areas and its proximity to provincial and national parks, you’ll never be bored here.
So far, the Bay of Quinte has given me great friends, some unexpected (but welcome) opportunities and a real initiative to get outside and explore my own backyard while I can.
Bleasdell Boulder, Frankford
This is an area where you have no idea what you’re in for. The enormity of this boulder is beyond what I, and I’m sure many others, had expected. The scenery of trees, trail, wooden bridges and streams distract you from what lies ahead. Such an easy spot to take the dogs for a run around the one-kilometre loop or extend our stay by going farther along the trail.
Potter’s Creek, Bayside
Potter’s Creek is my favourite spot close to town with that “out of town” feel. I like that it has an option for the person who just wants to walk along the water, but you can walk through a tunnel under Highway 2 and enjoy trails I haven’t even seen all of yet! Even on the coldest day this place radiates beauty, is great for the outdoorsy folk and is a photographer’s paradise.
Mount Pelion, Trenton
Moving from Manitoba, where hills are few and far between, Mount Pelion was just what we needed. Especially since we’re originally coming from the East Coast, where “walking up hills both ways” is a commonly used phrase. The prize for reaching the top, whether you walked from the very bottom or started at the stairs, is a breathtaking view of the Trenton area.
Sager Conservation, Oak Hills
Another spot with a view no one should miss! The best part of Sager Conservation is its location. It’s tucked away, surrounded by beautiful homes and trees aplenty, and it has this secluded feeling to it. The quick one-kilometre walk up to the tower will get your heart racing, but once you’ve reached the top of the tower, you’ll see the panoramic view of the area cannot be beat.
Trenton Waterfront/Bayshore Park/Centennial Park
When we first visited Trenton on our house-hunting trip, the waterfront area was one of the last spots we checked out. It really left me with a great feeling for the area and added excitement for our move here. This simple but beautiful area of Trenton shouldn’t be missed. This is the perfect area to finish any trip to Quinte West. It will leave you with a feeling of joy and anticipation to come back for another visit!
Trent Severn Waterway
For someone who doesn’t have a boat or know anyone locally who does, I still find the Trent Severn Lock System fascinating. The waterway stretches 386 kilometres, and I have only been to Lock 1. I’m making it a goal to drive up and see the seven of forty-one located in Quinte West. This would be a fun way to see more of the area while enjoying one of Canada’s National Historic Sites.
Other Must-See Spots in the Bay of Quinte
Frankford Tourist Park
Batawa Ski Hill + Dino Dig
Zwick’s Park
Riverside Park
Jane Forrester Park/Meyers Pier
National Air Force Museum of Canada
Be sure to check out our events calendar, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter and sign up for our newsletter for more of what happens here in the BoQ.
