Middle Island Trails
Gallery
Quick Facts
| Difficulty | accessible |
| Trail Type | loop |
| Distance | 1.7 km |
| Estimated Time | 45 minutes |
| Surface Type | crushed rock |
| Elevation Change | 6 meters |
| Features | historic site, beach |
| Trail Markers | signs |
| Scenery Rating | historical |
| Maintenance Rating | well maintained |
| Cell Reception | strong |
| Dog Friendly | on a leash |
| Fees | none |
Podcast
Episode 8: Quarantined on Middle Island, Miramichi
Description
Middle Island is a small island in the Miramichi River that is only 400 meters long and 160 meters wide. A causeway provides access to the island by car. The island is mostly known as a historic site but also has a beach and takeout facilities. The island is roughly half forested and half fields.
The history of the island includes it being a quarantine island in the mid 1800's for people escaping the Potato famine in Ireland. Scarlet Fever and Typhoid were spread fast throughout the ships on their way to North America. When the ships arrived in Miramichi Bay they were quarantined on several islands around New Brunswick. Middle Island was one of them. Interpretive signs around the island describe the Irish history of the area and the dire conditions of the quarantine stations. You can read more about the history in the picture gallery above.
Map
Store
Directions
From the mall in Chatham (Miramichi South) continue Northeast on Water Street as it turns into Duke Street. After 500 meters and just after passing the park turn left onto King Street. At the next stop sign turn right and you will be back onto Water Street. Drive for 2.4 kilometres, keeping left on Water Street, and you will come to the gates of the park on your left.
Other Trails in the area
Trail Last Hiked: March 14, 2020.
Page Last Updated: March 18, 2020.