Renfrew Road

Trail Overview

Renfrew Road is a captivating trail that winds through the historic Renfrew Gold District, offering a blend of easy and challenging terrain. Starting at the corner of Monte Vista Road and the paved section of Renfrew Road in Enfield, the trail stretches westward to Old Renfrew Road near HWY 354 in Upper Rawdon. The eastern section, from Enfield to North Brook, becomes more rugged, with large water holes and exposed rocks adding to the adventure and challenge of the journey. As you move west of North Brook, the trail is characterized by hard-packed dirt, making it relatively easy to traverse. The trail is wide enough for two vehicles in most places, ensuring a comfortable ride. Renfrew Road provides access to numerous roads, trails, and areas for further exploration. Whether you're interested in off-roading, hiking, or simply enjoying the scenic beauty, there's plenty to discover. The Renfrew Gold District is steeped in history, dating back to the gold rush of the 1860s. As you explore the trail, you'll encounter abandoned gold mining sites that tell the story of the area's rich past. Remember to respect private property and obey all no trespassing signs and gates. North Brook offers a picturesque camping spot, perfect for a restful break amidst nature. The Renfrew Gold District was once a bustling hub of activity following the discovery of gold by William Thompson in 1861. The district saw its peak production in 1867, with significant contributions from the Preeper Lead, known for its rich ore. Over the years, the district produced a total of 51,985.9 ounces of gold, with the majority of this production occurring between 1862 and 1927. As you venture along Renfrew Road, you'll not only enjoy the natural beauty but also connect with the historical significance of the area. Remember to respect private property, adhere to no trespassing signs, leave no trace, and be mindful of other trail users and wildlife. Enjoy your adventure on Renfrew Road, where history and nature converge to create a memorable experience!

Photos of Renfrew Road

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Difficulty

This is a mostly easy trail, however east of North Brook has some large exposed rocks, washouts, and large water holes to navigate.

History

The Renfrew Gold District, located in Nova Scotia, Canada, has a rich history dating back to 1861 when gold was first discovered by William Thompson near his sawmill. This discovery led to a flurry of activity, with many small companies and prospectors staking claims. Significant production began in 1862, and by 1863, gold recovery had more than doubled. The district saw its peak in 1867, producing 9,401 ounces of gold, making it the leading gold district in the province that year. However, production began to decline in the following years, with intermittent periods of activity. Notably, in 1900, a rich ore discovery led to the recovery of 4,450 ounces of gold. Throughout its history, the Renfrew Gold District produced a total of 51,985.9 ounces of gold, with the majority of this production occurring between 1862 and 19271. The district is also known for having one of the richest leads in the province, the Preeper Lead, which produced an average of over two ounces of gold per ton of ore.

Technical Rating

Renfrew Road can be accessed by the following ride types:

• High-Clearance 4x4
• SUV
• SxS (60")
• ATV (50")
• Dirt Bike