TL;DR: Even quiet rural areas come with sounds and smells. Many of the noise makers in our community provide jobs to residents and support our local economy. Expect the loudest disturbances from planes, trains, car traffic, and farming infrastructure.
The Bay of Quinte area is a popular destination for people relocating, both from larger cities like Toronto and military relocations to and from CFB Trenton. With its picturesque scenery, smaller population, and slower pace, it’s easy to see why so many are drawn to our community. However, while the Bay of Quinte offers plenty of peace and quiet compared to big cities, it’s important to understand that living here comes with its own unique soundtrack.
Planes: Living near CFB Trenton
Quinte West is home to CFB Trenton, Canada’s largest air force base. This brings a unique element to the local soundscape: planes of all sizes, from cargo planes like hercules and globemaster aircraft, to helicopters, to F-18 fighter jets, flying overhead. The RCAF is a a major contributor to the local economy, and it isn’t uncommon to hear aircraft flying overhead through the days and nights.
One of the most common activities is a maneuver called “touch and go,” where planes circle above the Bay of Quinte, especially over Quinte West and Prince Edward County as pilots maintain their flight hours and ensure equipment safety. While some may find the sounds of aviation unexpected in a more rural setting, for many residents, these planes are a source of pride. They reflect the important role our community plays in Canada’s national defense and global humanitarian efforts.
Trains: The Rhythm of Small-Town Life
The Bay of Quinte is crisscrossed by two major rail lines that pass directly through Brighton, Quinte West, and Belleville. These tracks aren’t just relics of history; they’re active routes that transport goods and passengers across Ontario. Belleville even hosts a major transit station for VIA Rail, offering convenience for locals and visitors alike, while Trenton has a smaller station.
For some new residents, the sound of a passing train can be a surprise. Train horns and the rumble of wheels on tracks may take some getting used to, but they’re a reminder of the area’s deep connection to Canada’s transportation history—and a sign of its continued growth and connectivity. If you are likely to be bothered by the sounds of the rumble, or the occassional horn toot, buying a home near the railroad is something that you should actively avoid.
Automobiles: The Pulse of Growing Communities
The Bay of Quinte area may be less congested than Toronto, but we’re not without our share of traffic noise. Highway 401 runs through Brighton, Quinte West, and Belleville, bringing steady vehicle traffic day and night. In-town rush hour, while mild compared to big cities, can still feel busy as small-town roads work to accommodate a growing population.
In Prince Edward County, the charm of rural living comes with a catch: Highway 33 and 62 are two-lane roads that serve as primary routes in and out of the County. On summer weekends, especially Friday afternoons, these roads can become crowded with vacationers, creating plenty of traffic noise. The swing bridge in Carrying Place over the Murray Canal is a particular bottleneck, where you’ll hear the hum of idling cars and eager drivers making their way to PEC.
Farming: The Sounds (and Smells) of Rural Life
Living in the Bay of Quinte means being surrounded by beautiful farmland—but with the idyllic views come some unexpected realities. Farm equipment, like tractors and harvesters, often shares the roads, causing occasional traffic slowdowns. In the fields, the sounds of tilling, planting, and hauling crops are all part of the rhythm of the seasons.
And let’s not forget livestock—chickens, cows, and other animals can be vocal (and smelly) contributors to the soundscape. Fertilizers, including manure, add their own “signature scent” to the countryside and often trickle into town, especially in spring and fall. These are the everyday sounds and smells of rural living, reminding us of the essential role agriculture plays in our community. We are blessed to be surrounded by so much active farmland, and to be home to farmers who provide the food on our tables.
Embracing the Sounds of the Bay of Quinte
While the Bay of Quinte area isn’t silent, it offers a different kind of soundtrack compared to the hustle and bustle of city life. The trains, planes, and automobiles are part of the community’s fabric, reflecting its history, economy, and charm. For new residents, adjusting to these sounds can take time, but they’re reminders of the vibrancy and growth that make this region so special.
If you’re considering a move to the Bay of Quinte, our team is here to help you find the perfect home that fits your lifestyle and expectations. However, if the occasional train, the roar of an F-18, the smell of fresh poop on a farmer’s field, or a summer traffic jam sounds like too much to handle, you might want to rethink leaving the city—you’re trading car horns and sirens for the sounds of small-town life! But if you’re ready to embrace the charm (and quirks) of our community, we’d love to help you find your slice of Bay of Quinte paradise!
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