Top 13 Hiking Trails in Halifax
Halifax is a treasure trove for outdoor enthusiasts. With its rugged coastline, lush forests, and scenic viewpoints, the region offers a variety of hiking experiences suitable for all skill levels and transport methods. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or looking for a pleasant outdoor adventure, Halifax has something for everyone. So lace up your hiking boots and get ready to have the ocean breeze guide you to your next adventure in Nova Scotia.
We did this trip in early spring and the temperatures were chilly and windy but we had the chance to see nature in full bloom and many beautiful flowers everywhere.
Discovering the Best Hiking Trails in Halifax
Point Pleasant Park
Nestled on the southern tip of the Halifax Peninsula, Point Pleasant Park is a favourite among Haligonians and tourists alike. The park features 39 km of easy winding trails and wide paths, many wheelchair-accessible, through dense forests, historic ruins, and along the scenic coastline. The park's easy trails make it perfect for a leisurely walk. What I liked the most was the panoramic ocean views and of course, the many 4 legged friends running all around the park.
The park is rented from the British Government for 1 shilling (about 10 cents) a year, with a 999-year lease, how crazy is that? The park is now owned by the Government of Canada and is leased to the Halifax Regional Municipality.
Point Pleasant is home to the Prince of Wales Tower, the oldest Martello tower in North America built in 1796. A Martello Tower is a small defensive fort. The park also has the ruins of several forts and artillery batteries.
Other park features include a beach for swimming, off-leash dog walking areas, and washroom facilities.
If you are visiting the city in the Summer, you can enjoy a show by Shakespeare by the Sea.
You can access this park by walking from downtown Halifax or by using their easy-to-use and cheap bus system.
Point Pleasant Park
Long Lake Provincial Park
A gem located just outside downtown Halifax, Long Lake Provincial Park offers a range of trails suitable for all levels of hikers. The park boasts serene lakeside paths, forested trails, and stunning views of Long Lake itself. This park is perfect for those looking to escape the city and enjoy nature without travelling far.
The park spans over 2,000 hectares and features a variety of trails that wind through pristine forest and along the shores of Long Lake. The trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes, making it an ideal destination for hikers of all skill levels. Additionally, the provincial park offers opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and swimming in the clear waters of Long Lake, providing a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The only thing that I did not like about parts of this park is that you were able to hear the highway, it was difficult to enjoy nature with the noises of the cars.
From downtown Halifax, you can reach the park in around 40 minutes by bus or if you are driving you can arrive in just 10 minutes.
Sir Sandford Fleming Park
Often referred to as "The Dingle," this park features gentle trails very close to the city This 95-acre park has four natural habitats: woodlands, heath barren, salt water and pond. The park is highlighted by the historic Dingle Tower which commemorates 150 years of representative government in the province. The park was donated to Halifax in 1908 by Sir Sandford Fleming, creator of Standard Time Zones.
This urban park is an excellent spot for family outings and picnics. There is also a small sandy beach, a wharf and a boat launch. I enjoyed the walk by the water and looking at the beautiful houses on the other side of the water.
The park is within the city limits so you can arrive on foot, by bus or by car.
Admirals Cove Park
Tucked away in Bedford, Admirals Cove Park is a serene escape that offers picturesque views of Halifax Harbour and Bedford Basin. The small park features paths that meander through forested areas and along the water's edge. The trails are easy to moderate, making them accessible to hikers of all skill levels. The park's tranquil setting and stunning vistas provide a perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll, bird watching, or simply enjoying nature.
Plus the houses surrounding the park are beautiful to look at. Out of all the hikes that we did during our visit, I really enjoyed this park.
The park is accessible by bus or by car.
Unfortunately, we did not get the chance to visit the parks in the list below but they are highly recommended and rated. I guess we will need to go back!
Salt Marsh Trail
Part of the iconic Trans Canada Trail, the Salt Marsh Trail offers stunning coastal views and an abundance of wildlife. This moderate trail is ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers. The trail's flat terrain makes it accessible for hikers of all ages and abilities. The trail is 6.5 km long (13 km return) with a 3.2 km section over a causeway through the Cole Harbour salt marsh.
The rail trail starts at 805 Bissett Road which is where you can join the Salt Marsh Trail and the Cole Harbour Heritage Park trails. You can do this trail by bike as well. In winter, you can cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
The park is a short 25-minute drive from downtown Halifax. Unfortunately, the bus does not serve this area.
Susies Lake Trail
For those seeking a bit more adventure, Susies Lake Trail provides a moderate challenge with its loop around a picturesque lake. The trail offers a mix of wooded paths and rocky outcrops, making it a great choice for hikers looking for a bit of variety.
From downtown Halifax, you can arrive at this park by bus by taking 2 buses or a short 15-minute drive.
Duncan’s Cove Nature Reserve
Known for its rugged coastal hiking, Duncan’s Cove Nature Reserve is a must-visit for experienced hikers. The trail features dramatic cliffs, ocean vistas, and opportunities to spot seals basking on the rocks. And who doesn’t want to see seals? The challenging terrain rewards hikers with some of the most breathtaking views in the region.
Duncans Cove Nature Reserve is in the Pennant Granite Barrens natural landscape.
The cove is only a 30-minute drive from downtown Halifax.
Blue Mountain-Birch Cove Lakes Wilderness Area
For those looking to immerse themselves in untouched natural beauty, the Blue Mountain-Birch Cove Lakes Wilderness Area is a prime destination. This expansive wilderness area, located just outside of Halifax, offers over 1,700 hectares of pristine landscapes, including glacial lakes, granite ridges, and dense forests. The trails here range from moderate to challenging, catering to hikers seeking a more rugged and remote experience. The wilderness area provides excellent opportunities for backcountry hiking, canoeing, and wildlife spotting. With its serene environment and breathtaking scenery, Blue Mountain-Birch Cove Lakes Wilderness Area is perfect for adventurers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and connect with nature.
This trail is a 30-minute drive from the city.
Bluff Wilderness Hiking Trail
For the more adventurous hiker, the Bluff Wilderness Trail offers a challenging and rewarding experience. Located near Timberlea, this trail is part of the larger Chebucto Wilderness Area and consists of four interconnected loops totalling approximately 30 kilometres. The trail takes hikers through diverse landscapes, including mixed forests, barrens, and stunning views from high ridges. The Bluff Wilderness Hiking Trail is known for its rugged terrain, making it suitable for experienced hikers seeking a full-day or overnight backcountry adventure. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the tranquillity of pristine lakes, panoramic views, and the opportunity to spot local wildlife.
This trail is a 20-minute drive from the city or 1 hour by bus.
Musquodoboit Trailway
The Musquodoboit Trailway offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and historical charm. This hiking trail near Halifax is located in the picturesque Musquodoboit Valley. The trail follows an old railway bed, where the famed "Blueberry Express" used to run. The train was so named because the story goes that it ran so slowly that one could jump off, pick some blueberries and then hop back on.
The rail trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail and provides a flat and easy path for hikers, bikers, and families. The main trail stretches for approximately 15 kilometres and features several side trails that lead to scenic lookouts and geological formations, such as the iconic Skull Rock. As you hike along the Musquodoboit Trailway, you'll be surrounded by lush forests, river views, and an array of wildlife. The trail is well-maintained and offers picnic areas and interpretive signs, making it a fantastic destination for a relaxing day out in nature.
The park is a 40-minute drive away from the city center.
Pennant Point Trail
Located in Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park, Pennant Point Trail is a coastal gem offering stunning ocean views and pristine sandy beaches. The trail stretches approximately 13 kilometres round trip, taking hikers along the rugged coastline, through dense forests, and past secluded coves. The trail’s moderate difficulty level makes it accessible to most hikers, and the diverse scenery provides a constantly changing backdrop. Along the way, hikers can enjoy the sights and sounds of the Atlantic Ocean, explore tide pools, and perhaps even spot seals and seabirds. Pennant Point Trail is perfect for those looking to combine a beach day with a scenic hike.
The park is a 40-minute drive away from the city center.
High Head Trail
High Head Trail, located near Prospect, is a hidden gem offering dramatic coastal scenery and a peaceful hiking experience. This moderate trail spans approximately 8 kilometres round trip and features a rugged coastline, exposed granite headlands, and panoramic ocean views. The trail meanders through windswept landscapes, providing hikers with stunning vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and the opportunity to explore tidal pools and rocky shores. High Head Trail is relatively less travelled, offering a tranquil escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. Along the way, hikers can spot seabirds, coastal plants, and occasionally seals basking on the rocks, making it a delightful experience for nature enthusiasts.
The park is a 30-minute drive away from the city center and 30 minutes away from the famous Peggys Cove.
Crowbar Lake Hiking Trails
Crowbar Lake Hiking Trails, located in the Porters Lake area, offer a network of challenging trails through stunning wilderness. Spanning over 16 kilometres, these trails wind through dense forests, along sparkling lakes, and over rugged terrain. The trails are well-marked and provide a true backcountry experience, with opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and wildlife spotting. Hikers can explore various loops and enjoy the serene beauty of the surrounding landscape, including views of pristine lakes, rocky outcrops, and lush vegetation. The Crowbar Lake Hiking Trails are perfect for experienced hikers looking for a remote and immersive nature experience.
This trail is a 40-minute drive from the city.
Looking for more? Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk might not be a traditional hike, but this waterfront path is perfect for a leisurely stroll with stunning views of the harbour, shops, and eateries.
Tips for your Halifax Hikes
What to Bring on Your Hike
Preparation is key to a successful hiking trip. Here are a few essentials to bring on your Halifax hike:
Hiking Shoes are not mandatory but are a nice plus. The majority of hikes in this article are not very difficult.
The big must is to have Weather-Appropriate Clothing. Halifax IS WINDY! I will suggest dressing in layers and bringing rain gear, as Halifax weather can be unpredictable. I will recommend cautioning on the warmer side if you are debating which coat to bring.
Sunscreen and insect repellent are a must in the summer season.
Other tips
Transportation: As you saw, many of the Halifax hiking trails can be accessed by car and some by bus. The bus is very user-friendly and costs around $2. Here is how- to in case you need it. If you are going by car, no need to worry about where to leave your car, there is always parking available.
Stay on marked trails: Protect the environment and avoid getting lost by sticking to designated paths.
Respect wildlife: Maintain a safe distance from animals and do not feed them. Keep an eye out for deer, foxes, and a variety of bird species. Coastal trails may offer sightings of seals. On our hikes, we saw many birds.
AllTrails app: Provides detailed maps, user reviews, and GPS tracking for many local trails.
Accommodations
Halifax is worth visiting for 2-3 days especially if you are doing many hikes. The city is very central to all of these hikes. If you are looking for where to stay in Halifax I suggest staying at The Westin Nova Scotian. The historical hotel is located downtown right by the pier.
So which trail will you embark on first? Let me know in the comments below
PIN IT FOR LATER!
Top 13 Hiking Trails in Halifax #Halifax #outdoors #NovaScotia #Canada
Disclaimer: The nights at hotel The Westin Nova Scotian were complementary by Discover Halifax Tourism Board. As always, all opinions are our own.
Halifax is in Mi’kma’ki, the ancestral and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq people. The people of the Mi’kmaw Nation have lived on this territory for millennia, and we acknowledge them as the past, present and future caretakers of this land. Historically, land acknowledgment is a traditional practice shared amongst Indigenous groups to recognize the Indigenous land and territory they are visiting. Today a land acknowledgement remains a way to express one’s gratitude to the Indigenous people for being stewards of the land that we live and work on.