Trail at Green Gables closed for upgrade next week

The Haunted Wood Trail at Green Gables in Cavendish, P.E.I., will be temporarily closed as the bridge on the trail is replaced starting Monday.

• Green Gables Heritage Place redevelopment underway, says Parks Canada

Infrastructure work will be going on for four to five days, said a written release from Parks Canada. It's part of a $9.5 million, 3-year redevelopment of the site.

"While these infrastructure upgrades may result in a short-term inconvenience, they will bring a long-term benefit and improve visitor experience at Green Gables Heritage Place," the release said.

The 45-minute loop walking trail is to the east of "Anne's" house, and illustrates Island author L.M. Montgomery's fictional haunted wood describedin the iconic bookAnne of Green Gables, published in 1908. Two other important trails, Lover's Lane and the Balsam Hollow Trail, will remain open to the public.

Environment inspired author

There's no word on exactly how much the bridge replacement will cost, but Parks Canada said it is part of its $3 billion dollar, five-year program to improve national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas across Canada.

According to Park's Canada's website, Green Gables Heritage Place site is now only open for group bookings by special appointment.

Interpretive signs along thewoodland trail point out how L. M. Montgomery's childhood environment inspired her creation of Anne. "There are benches provided for you to rest awhile in one of L.M. Montgomery's magical spots."

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