Get Side-Tracked

Placemaking projects like this play a vital role in economic development by turning public spaces into vibrant, inviting community hubs that attract both residents and visitors.

This initiative is enhancing the continuous multi-use trail from Smith’s Cove in Digby County to Barrington in Shelburne County.

• Signs promoting legally accessible track side businesses and interesting stops
• Creating and promoting a unique trail identity
• Training programs to help businesses better serve trail users

The trail has been named the Dark Sky T’Railway because our region has some of the clearest, darkest skies in the world. We were designated the first Starlight Reserve in North America by The International Starlight Foundation in 2014 and one of AirBNB’s trending astro tourism destinations.

Art on the T’Railway

Two art projects were completed on the Dark Sky T’Railway in the summer of 2025.

In July Digby-based artist Peter Lockerbie designed and created this beautiful piece. It is located at Pont des Black in Clare near Bangor, on the remains of an old train bridge.

This is a spot known as the Pump House in the Municipality of Barrington in Upper Wood’s Harbour. It pumps industrial water to various fish plants in the area. In September it recieved an artistic upgrade from Yarmouth-based artist Danielle Mahood.

The project will also add:

• Rest stops with amenities
• Selfie spots
• More outdoor art
• Maps and consistent branding to promote the trail

The trail will be added to Google Maps to explore and plan your trip.

With provincial funding, this project aims to increase tourism, boost local economies, and recognize the volunteers who maintain the trails.