ABOUT PUGWASHWALKS

PugwashWalks is a community-driven initiative designed to inspire residents and visitors to embrace active, healthy lifestyles while exploring the historic charm of our village. With accessible, year-round walking routes and distance-marked signage, this project encourages people of all ages and abilities to meet fitness goals, improve mobility, and enjoy the mental and physical benefits of walking. By combining wayfinding maps, QR-coded signage, and engaging educational content, PugwashWalks enhances the walking experience, highlights cultural and natural landmarks, and fosters a deeper connection to our vibrant community.

Launching the PugwashWalks program October 2024

Walking Routes

Explore the charm and history of Pugwash through our thoughtfully designed walking routes. Each path is equipped with clear signage and distance markers to help you track your progress. Discover highlights along the way, including scenic spots, native trees, and cultural landmarks.

Our signage features QR codes that provide access to educational and cultural information, including the Mi’kmaq language and details about local history. Whether you’re looking for a short stroll or a longer route, PugwashWalks offers something for everyone, making it easy to enjoy the mental and physical benefits of walking in our vibrant community.

Health and Wellness

PugwashWalks is more than a set of trails—it’s a pathway to better health and well-being. Walking is a simple, free, and effective way to improve physical fitness, boost mental health, and increase mobility for people of all ages and abilities. By incorporating measured distances and accessible routes, this project encourages participants to set and achieve personal fitness goals.

In addition to the physical benefits, walking in Pugwash provides an opportunity to reduce stress, connect with nature, and engage with the cultural and historical richness of our village. With added features like QR-coded signs linking to educational and health resources, Pugwash Walks inspires a healthy lifestyle while fostering a deeper sense of connection to our community.

December 2024 Champion of the Month: Valerie Brown

Valerie Brown, a trail steward for Cumberland Trails, has been walking since she was 9 months old and inspires others to embrace nature and healthy lifestyles. Valerie averages 7k daily, enjoys group hikes, and says, “Walking is free, you can go anytime, no special equipment needed.”

Fun Fact: Valerie finds joy in the beauty of nature, from spring flowers to fall colors, and credits walking as essential to her day.

January 2025 Champion of the Month: Hal Patterson

Hal Patterson, at 93, is living proof of how regular exercise can impact your health. Hal has been the energy behind a regular Seniors’ Walking Group at Cyrus Eaton Elementary. Conversations abound as walkers circle the gym. Some are there building up their strength after health challenges, and some, like Hal, are logging their steps and cheering on others with the common goal to keep moving. Hal walks to keep himself fit but he also “ likes the camaraderie of getting together with people in the community, especially during the long winter months.” 

Fun Fact: The CEE Walking Group has attracted from 10 to 30 walkers on any given day since 2016.

Why We Walk

Walking Champions promote healthy lifestyles and remind us how moving can enhance mental and physical well-being. Join the movement and let’s celebrate the power of walking together.

“Few people know how to take a walk… endurance, an eye for nature, good humour, vast curiosity, and nothing too much.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson

Nominate a Champion

Do you know someone who inspires others with their passion for walking, hiking, or biking? Nominate them to be our next Walking Champion!
Email us at: norene48@gmail.com