10 of the Best Hiking Trails near Halifax
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The ocean is calling, and it’s bargaining with sounds of whistling winds and crashing waves to accompany your hike. It’s nearly impossible to find a hike around Halifax that doesn’t have a coastal view, and we wouldn’t have it any other way. With a mix of urban and rural settings, hikers of all levels can find something to enjoy within the peninsula. But make sure to pack your sturdiest boots and your swim trunks � hiking around Halifax means both rock climbing and beach bumming afterwards.
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1. Duncan�s Cove Coastal Trail
Duncan’s Cove Nature Reserve
Distance:�8�km round-trip
Time:�3 – 4 hours
With breathtaking ocean views, this classic Halifax hike is a favourite for locals and visitors alike. Bring a pair of binoculars for the chance to spot seals and coastal birds, and watch for old concrete lookouts and lighthouses. Like any thing of beauty, as a sensitive nature reserve it must remain protected, so tread lightly and stick to the rugged paths.
How do I get to the trailhead? Take the 4th�exit at the Armdale Rotary and follow to NS-349 S. Turn Left onto Chebucto Head Rd to Duncan�s Cove.
Read more about this trail:�novascotia.ca�
Distance from Halifax:� 17 km
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2. Pennant Point Trail
Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park
Distance:�10.5 km loop
Elevation Gain: 127 m
Time:�2 -�4 hours
This trail�follows the coast across boardwalks and bridges, leading to scenic rock climbing spots. Come�prepared for�bushwhacking, as portions of the trail are often�overgrown or difficult to distinguish.�
How do I get to the trailhead?: Take Old Sambro Road to Hwy 349.�Follow signs for Crystal Crescent Beach.
Read more about this trail: alltrails.com�
Distance from Halifax:�28 km
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3. Herring Cove Bluffs
Herring Cove Provincial Park Reserve
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Distance:�2 km loop
Time:�1 hour
Elevation:�Minimal
This quick city getaway is the perfect photography excursion. Perch yourself on a rock to snap a shot of the crashing waves, while surrounded by coastal bushes and trees.
How do I get to the trailhead?: Take the 4th exit onto Herring Cover/NS-349 S. Turn onto Purcells Cove Road. Look for signs for Herring Cove.
Read more about this trail: halifaxtrails.ca�
Distance from Halifax:�15 km
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4.�Lakeview Trail
Long Lake Provincial Park Reserve
Distance:�5 km loop
Time:�1 – 2 hours
Elevation:�57 m
This urban gem is home to unique geology and refreshing water for an afternoon dip. The path is perfect for a jog, or if you�re an adventuresome hiker, travel off the beaten path with unmarked opportunities on the 2,000 hectares of land.
How do I get to the trailhead?: Follow St. Margaret�s Bay Road from the Armdale Rotary. There�s a small parking lot on your left just before the road leading to Exhibition Park.
Read more about this trail:�longlakepark.ca�
Distance from Halifax:�7�km
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5.�Purcell Cove Backlands
Distance: Varies
Time:�2 hours
Elevation:�100 m
This unmarked landscape requires some navigation as you weave across the 1,350 hectares�to William�s Lake. Step with caution around the glacially sculpted granite and enjoy the ecologically unique land.
How do I get to the trailhead?: From�Purcells Cove Rd, turn right onto Oceanview Dr.
Read more about this trail: halifaxtrails.ca�
Distance from Halifax:�6�km
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6. Point Pleasant Trail
Point Pleasant Park
Distance:�3.5 km loop
Time:�1 hour
Elevation:�61 m
What began as a fortress to defend the city is now Halifax�s favourite urban park. Take your pup for a stroll or catch a glimpse�of the harbour from the hill. You�ll forget that you haven�t left town.
How do I get to the trailhead?: Located in the South End of Halifax.
Read more about this trail: pointpleasantpark.ca�
Distance from Halifax:�0 km
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7. Liberty Lake Trail
Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site
Distance:�60.5 km�one-way
Time:�4 – 5�days
Elevation:�418 m
When the going gets tough, these backcountry trails get tougher. On this multi-day trek, you�ll find yourself trudging through streams and large lush forest. This hike is not for the faint of heart.
How do I get to the trailhead?: Follow Highway 8 to Kejimkujik National Park. Starting point is at the Big Dam Lake Parking Lot.
Read more about this trail:�pc.gc.ca�
Distance from Halifax�167 km
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8. Cape Split Trail
Distance:�16 km loop
Time:�4 -�5 hours
Elevation:�489 m
Watch the Bay of Fundy show you some of the world�s highest tides. The uphill climb to the point of Cape Split is known as the best view in the province, where you�ll catch a different sight whether the tide is high or low. Bring a snack; you�ll want to stay awhile.
How do I get to the trailhead?: Follow Highway 101. Take Exit 11 and drive to Scott�s Bay. Follow the Cape Split signs to the parking lot.
Read more about this trail:�novatrails.com�
Distance from Halifax: 127 km
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9. Jodrey Trail
Blomidon�Provincial Park
Distance:�5.6�km
Time:�2 – 3 hours
Elevation:�190 m
Just around the corner from Cape Split, hikers can enjoy the same fluid tidal views.�Expect some steep climbs�up sea cliffs through forested areas.
How do I get to the trailhead?�All trails are accessible from the provincial park.
Read more:�parks.novascotia.ca�
Distance from Halifax:�122 km
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10.�Gaff Point Trail
Distance:�7 km loop
Time:�2 hours
Elevation:�117 m
Do you like taking long walks along sandy beaches? This trail leaves you almost completely surrounded by ocean in a mix of beach and forest, with rugged cliffs for dramatic views.
How do I get to the trailhead?:�Begins at Hirtles Beach just outside of Lunenburg.
Read more about this trail:�novascotia.com�
Distance from Halifax:�116 km
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Want more hiking trails in the Halifax area?
Check out our list of the best hiking trails in Nova Scotia here!
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Related content on explore-mag.com:
25 Incredible Hiking Trails in Nova Scotia
