Hiking through fields and woods enjoying nature is at the heart of the Avon Trail. Still, as our trail meanders from St Marys to Conestogo, there are a few more urban places to explore.
Many have come to enjoy the coffee shops and eateries to be found in St Marys as the beginning or endpoint to an end to end hike. A new establishment in town might be a reason to plan a trek that includes “The Town Worth Living In.”
In his article, Passing by a Lighthouse – Trailhead 4.9, Tom suggests parking and walking east. A definite must if you want to see the Lighthouse. However, if you walk west from this point, you will be walking towards St Marys. As you walk along Glass Street for a kilometer or so, you come to the Junction Railway Station at km 3.2. Your ONDAGO App describes this point of interest: St Marys Junction, the original train station.
This description fails to reflect that a new business has bought and refurbished the old Junction Station. Broken Rail Brewing is now open for curbside pick-up. Brewery hours are Tuesday – Sunday 12 pm – 6 pm. The brewery offers fresh, delicious, local craft beer, including Square Nail Amber, Incandescent Blonde, Tesla’s Revenge IPA (a favourite in our house) and Overnight Express Stout, along with specialty brews. Due to the popularity of the new brewery, they sometimes find themselves short on stock, but you can call ahead during open hours 226-301-4677 to see what is available. Future (post-pandemic) plans include a patio and light food service. There is Avon Trail parking at km 3.2, Glass St. south side, if you want to begin your hike east or west from this point.
A lovely hike and a cold brew, what more could a Canadian hiker (age 19+) ask to take home?
Cindy Kimber