As a family with two children, ages five and seven, plus a highly active three-year-old boxer dog, we are taking a vow to make the most of the outdoors more than ever before - especially after that long period of #staytheblazeshome lockdown where we went from exploring trails to strolling the cul-de-sac twice a day.
With the potential of any future COVID-19 restrictions at the back of our minds, we want to keep moving forward. Plus, what better way to keep our distance — and stay healthy—than in the wide, open air.
It never ceases to amaze me how many parts unknown there are to us across Nova Scotia—and I’ve lived here most of my life. Plus, there are so many places on our family’s hiking bucket list! Maybe we’ve been creatures of habit and have been sticking to what we know. Now, we are determined to explore more of our region and get off our own beaten track.
I’ll be sharing all the details you need. Helpful things like location, directions, where to park, timing, difficulty level, accessibility, and dog-friendliness. And other recommendations like the right snacks, footwear, and clothing to bring. All the advice and tips every hiker needs for each adventure.
High Head Hiking Trail
- Prospect, Nova Scotia
- 25 minutes from the Armdale Roundabout
- Scenery: 5/5
- Terrain difficulty: 3/5
- Our overall experience: 4.5/5
There are two entrance points to this four-kilometre, one-way hiking trail along the coastline in Prospect. You can park on Hages Lane and enter through the wooded Dr. Bill Freedman Nature Reserve, or for our recent hike, we parked on the other end of the trail along the Prospect Bay Road at the bottom of Indian Point Road. This is a dead-end, narrow lane with not much room to turn around at the top. It was already full of parked cars, but we had no problem finding a spot along the main road. Just be mindful of oncoming traffic.
We then made our way— just a short walk— to the top of Indian Point Road and onto the High Head trail.
We were rewarded with instant, beautiful scenic coastal views. It’s the perfect trail for ambling alongside the ocean.
We prepared for cool weather, in case it was colder along the coast or the fog rolled in. There was no need on this particular day -- the sun was shining and there was no shade to be found, but the breeze off the ocean created the perfect elements.
The terrain is a bit rugged, so be sure to have proper footwear (sturdy sneakers or boots).
There’s not a continuous single-file walking trail or path. For the most part, you can choose from the varied terrain as you make your way. It’s very flat, unless you want to climb across rocks on the beach or explore the massive boulders a la Peggy’s Cove. Otherwise, stick to the path.
Our girls had no problem tackling it all. Young, unstable tykes would be best in a carrier. This area is not wheelchair accessible or stroller friendly. The dog had a great time running ahead. We did keep an eye on her so as to not disturb too much of this nature reserve.
It’s a bit boggy in parts that would be soggy after rain. The trail is a bit overgrown in spots with tighter, narrow sections and long, tall grass to squeeze through (not often) but you can still see the well-worn path. I would recommend wearing long pants--and don’t forget to do a tick check.
My guess is the trail takes about an hour one way, going slowly with time to explore. We spent about 40 minutes exploring along before turning back to the car.
There are no washroom facilities or garbage cans - be prepared to trek out what you trek in. We packed full water bottles for each of us (and actually ran out since it was hot and we were quite active with our exploring). We brought a container of trail mix, granola bars, and apples. Atop the big boulders is the perfect pitstop for a picnic or snack. If there’s one thing I’ve learned - bring lots of snacks when hiking with children because they will want all of them. The last thing you want is to listen to a hungry, whining child while you try to finish a hike!
High Head trail is now one of our favourite places to spend a morning or afternoon. It’s a great place for bird watching and trying to spot seals. You may even catch someone fishing on the edge of the rocks. It reminds me a lot of the hike at Duncan’s Cove, but with much easier access. I would love to head back for a sunset—add that to the family hiking bucket list.
Heather Fegan is a freelance journalist, content creator, and blogger in Halifax, N.S. She loves exploring the great outdoors with her family. Follow more of her chronicles at www.heatherfegan.ca.
