Wednesday, 20 August 2008 10:24 am

BLOMIDON PROVINCIAL PARK

Uses: Hiking, Mountain Biking (difficult)

Time: 4.5 hours

Length: total of 13 km of interconnected trails

Difficulty: 3

Location: Follow Highway 101 to Annapolis Valley and take exit 11 at New Minas.  At the first intersection, cross Highway 1 and follow Route 358 to Canning.  Then follow the signs to Pereau and Blomidon Provincial Park.  Trail access is just before entering the camping park at the base of the Cape.

Description: The Joudrey Trail (just over 5 km) starts at the base of the cape.  There is an initial steep climb up towards the park campgrounds, then the trail levels out and follows along the edge of the cliffs, mostly through the woods, out towards the edge of the cape.  Near the end of this trail is Indian Springs where you can refill your water jug.  There is also a plaque here commemorating the donation of land from Roy Joudrey.  A short loop, called the Lookout Trail, extends farther out onto the point for some additional scenic views.  On the way back, you can continue through the forest on the Woodlands Trail (just over 3 km) back to the campground area.  If time permits, it is a nice hike to continue through the campground and pick up on the Borden Brook Trail along the southwestern boundary of the park.  There is a beautiful waterfall near the end of this trail and it will also lead you back to a parking lot at the trailhead.

Notes: At look-offs you can see Five Islands across the Bay of Fundy.  Mountain biking is possible but stumps, roots, and fallen trees make it very difficult.  Bikes with shocks are a necessity.  Rare and beautiful trillium is abundant in spring.  There are also a couple of short interpretive trails just off the main trails.

Rating: 4

Disclaimer: Sea Scotia Vacation Rentals in no way endorses the use of this trail.  Please do so at you own risk.  Be aware that in some places you may be crossing private property and you are required to obtain permission from the registered owner before doing so.  To determine the registered owner of the land contact the Nova Scotia Registry of Deeds office.