Scott's Trail

Scott’s Trail – A Quick & Scenic Escape

Looking for a relaxing and easy hike? Scott’s Trail is perfect for all ages, offering a 5 to 10-minute walk with a smooth boardwalk path.

🏞️ Trail Highlights:
✔️ Easy, short hike – Ideal for beginners or a quick nature break
✔️ Gazebo at the summit – A peaceful rest spot with incredible views
✔️ Scenic lookout – Enjoy breathtaking sights of the harbour, marina, and government wharf

Take a moment to pause, appreciate the beauty, and soak in the tranquility of Smith’s Harbour from above!

Scott’s Trail – A Path of History and Dedication

Once known as the "Old Government Road," this historic path was renamed in honor of Scott Rowsell (1934–2010)—a beloved community leader and visionary whose dedication helped shape Smith’s Harbour.

🏞️ The Old Government Road

Before modern roads connected the harbour to surrounding communities, the Old Government Road was the only link for several families.

• 🌿 Winding around Thornbat Pond, across a brook, and up over the hill, the journey was long and demanding.

• 🌞 Summertime travel meant carrying goods by hand up steep terrain.

• ❄️ Winters required toboggans and sleds to transport supplies.

• 🚶 Due to limited access to the main road, one family relocated but later returned to resettle in Smith’s Harbour as improvements were made.

👤 Who Was Scott Rowsell?

Born on March 17, 1934, Scott Rowsell lived his entire life in Smith’s Harbour—where he built his family, businesses, and legacy.

🏗️ He was a successful entrepreneur, operating:

• Scott’s Ramp sawmill

• A trucking company

• Grocery store & garage

• A taxi service

• His own band—"The Second Aquarius"

💡 A Man of Vision & Leadership
Scott tirelessly lobbied government officials to secure funding, ensuring Smith’s Harbour could thrive alongside neighboring communities.

🚰 His greatest achievement? Spearheading the initiative that brought clean drinking water to the town.

🏛️ He devoted years of service to:

• The Local Service District

• The Harbour Authority Committee

🎗️ His Lasting Legacy

Scott envisioned a stronger, more connected community, and his dedication remains deeply woven into the fabric of Smith’s Harbour.

On August 11, 2010, he passed away—but his memory and impact will never be forgotten.

Scott’s Trail stands today as a tribute to his unwavering commitment—a place where visitors can reflect, walk in his footsteps, and enjoy the incredible views of the harbour, marina, and government wharf.