Wednesday, 20 August 2008 10:12 am

MELANCHOLY MOUNTAIN, Montague

Uses: Hiking, Mountain Biking

Time: 1 hr

Length: 4 km return

Difficulty: 2 (hiking), 5 (mountain biking)

Location: From the Mic Mac Parkway in Dartmouth, take the Waverly Road exit and drive just under 5 km to the Hwy 107 turnoff.  Turn right here (Montague Rd) and continue straight to the end of the road, about 300m, and turn right again.  Go 1.3 km along the Montague Rd and then turn left onto Burnhope Drive. Go straight to the top of the hill (400m) to a large pile of rocks.  The trail starts here.

Description: Follow a woods road straight up from the end of Burnhope Dr. about 350 m to the power line and turn right.  Proceed eastward along the power line past the first big tower and follow the path northward into the woods about 100m before the second big tower.  The first part of the trail is through mixed forest, mostly of spruce and maple.  The latter part of the trail follows along the back of a grey wackey outcropping (barrens).  There is a short, steep climb at the end to get to the top of the mountain.  Lots of people have inscribed their names on the rock outcrops here.

Notes: There are several wet spots, particularly along the power line so wear footwear to keep you dry.  There's a nice view from the top of the mountain but not spectacular - large bog to the north, small frog pond just off the trail you came in on.  It is possible to bike back to the base of the mountain but only the hardiest of bikers will want to try it.

Rating: 1.5

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.