Spray Paint On White Pine

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"Spray Paint On White Pine"

VIEWER DISCRETION ADVISED

Today I had a fantastic hike around Susie's Lake.  Happily lost most of the time.  Towards the end of the hike I came to a spot I was familiar with, near the look off and the prettiest part of the area.  I was appalled to see some terrible spray paint on one of my favourite trees.  As I shook my head in disgust, I noticed a plaque on the tree.  I read it, and my disgust very quickly changed to heavy laughter. Easily the funniest thing I have ever seen in the woods (Click photo to expand):
"Spray Paint On White Pine"
Susies Lake Info (Including Map): http://www.halifaxtrails.ca/index_files/SusiesLake.htm

Outdoor Recreation Is Blooming In Clayton Park

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Dog parks, walking trails, sports fields, and active transport.

The Halifax Mainland Common, located in Clayton Park, has been recently upgraded.  Back in January, the city moved to replace off-leash dog facilities from Africville Park to a different location.  After consultations with a very engaged public, the Halifax Mainland Common was chosen as the site for the new facility.  Off-Leash parks are a rarity in Halifax so it was a gap that needed to be filled.  Not only does this site fill that gap, it has now become the centerpiece of an area blooming with recreation options.  From the design of the entry gates, to the fresh water dispensers the dog park gets an "A" grade in just about every aspect.  Separate fields for large and small dogs, a wooded trail section, a sheltered area, bag dispensers, garbage cans and a large parking area are reflections of a well executed plan.  

The dog park is only the newest addition to the Mainland Common.  The walking trails have been around for years, and have been constantly improved upon, thanks to the Halifax Northwest Trails Association.  They have spearheaded efforts to add interpretive signage, as well as improving and maintaining the trail with boardwalks, foot bridges.  The main loop is now lined with soft mulch, making it as aesthetically pleasing as it is soft on the feet.  A boardwalk and look-off in the unique bog habitat provides a great area to spot many different types of plants, wild flowers, insects and birds.  Chock full of pitcher plants and huckleberry bushes, there are plenty of plants and birds which are rarely seen in an urban setting. Recommended:  "Trees and Shrubs of the Maritimes", "Birds of Nova Scotia" and reading the interpretive signs along the way.

Activities don't stop with nature walking.  There is a very well maintained, dirt infield, public baseball field as well as the BMO Soccer Centre and Canada Games Centre.  The Common is also accessible via the Halifax Mainland North Linear Parkway, an active transport route that connects it to many other parks and places of interest.  The Lacewood bus terminal currently under construction will also help the accessibility.  When you look at the larger picture of how the various ball fields, parks, trails and facilities tie into each other you can start to see a cohesive active transportation and recreation area that the city could use a lot more of.   
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Site Updates:

  • Products Page now includes recommended books, camping/hiking gear and camera gear that I use. Buying anything from my Amazon Links helps to support the site!
  • Master map has been expanded to include clickable layers to reveal waterfalls, beaches, large trees, and campgrounds. 
  • Trail list is now sortable by activity type. (soon to be expanded upon, including sorting by location).
  • Added a few more links to the already extensive Related Links page.
  • Calendar page has been expanded to include events by Canoe Kayak Nova Scotia and Bicycle Nova Scotia.
  • Contact/About page expanded upon.
  • Go Fund Me campaign started. Keeping the site free for everyone has been an important goal.  It wouldn't be possible without a lot of unpaid work by myself, and support from people like you. 

10 Must-Do Outdoor Destinations For Spring

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This time of year, especially after the cruel joke of a Winter we have had to endure, it's almost imperative to be enlightened by Nova Scotia's great outdoors.  It's easy to have logic outweighed by ambition so take it slow, and as Frankie MacDonald says best; be prepared! Check out some tips here first.  The Victoria Day weekend is a perfect time to kick start a new year full of outdoor adventures, so here's a top 10 list to get you started:

10) Belchers Marsh Park.  This little oasis in the heart of Clayton Park may seem very un-assuming at first, but once you walk around you'll appreciate the quaint urban setting.  This unique spot is a major gathering place for all kinds of different birds and waterfowl.  If you stick around long enough you're bound to see some kind of bird you've never seen in the city before.  Stop to read about the nature and the history of the area, with signs courtesy of the Halifax NorthWest Trails Association.  At about 1.5km, a full loop on its gravel pathway can be accomplished pretty easily, making it an ideal stroll with kids.  Video

9) Fleming Park.  What Haligonian doesn't love Fleming Park?  Saying you don't like Fleming Park is like saying you hate Point Pleasant Park, which is enough to get you deported.  Whether it's a picnic, a jog, a paddle or some good old fashioned gallivanting, this place is amazing in the Spring.  Seeing everything starting to bloom at Fleming Park, makes it no wonder why it's such a popular place for weddings.  I think every Haligonian is married to Fleming Park.  Video

8) Point Pleasant Park. Each change of season means it's time for another visit to Point Pleasant Park.  You can almost see the heart of Halifax beating here.  I sometimes think that the mood of the city is a reflection of the current climate at Point Pleasant Park.  It's ideal for Jogging, walking, catching, throwing, pondering and most other verbs. Video

7) Herring Cove Provincial Park Reserve.  It may be a little early to spend a lot of time taking in views of the chilly Atlantic coastline, but if  you're a true  Nova Scotian, there's never an unacceptable time to head to the coast.  Bring extra layers, and be cautious on the wet rocky terrain.  The area stretches for about 1.5km so its' short enough to head back if things get chilly, or if your body betrays you.  Scampering along the coast here can make anyone feel like they could have been an expert rock climber if they chose to.  Ditch your cross-fit class and get your exercise here in nature's yoga studio. Video

6) Hemlock Ravine Park.  It has a heart shaped pond.  This area has been loved since Halifax's early days.  What's not to love about old-growth forest minutes from downtown Halifax? If you love Point Pleasant Park, you'll love the sans-coastline version of it too.  The ravine itself is pretty cool, and the trails are exactly like what you see at Point Pleasant.  Ideal for strolls with loved ones.  You could become another chapter in Fleming park's amorous history by proposing marriage next to the heart shaped pond. Get married at Fleming Park, have photos taken at Point Pleasant and accomplish the Halifax relationship trifecta.  Or you could just go and appreciate the absolute jewel we have here.  Video

5) Blue Mountain hiking trail.  This one requires some navigation and hiking prowess.  The area is always in flux with logging and development, so some roads and paths may lead you in the wrong direction.  Nonetheless, making it atop Blue Mountain is spectacular.  If you've never been, you're probably unaware that Halifax has such high vantage points of the peninsula.  It can be windy up there so dress accordingly, and bring some binoculars to have a look around.  Video

4) Chain Of Lakes/ B.L.T. Trails.  If you have something that has wheels and is powered by human kinetics, go take it for a rip on this converted railway trail system.  The Chain Of Lakes Trail is paved, so possibilities abound.  The B.L.T. trail is gravel.  Have a look at the maps and plan how far you want to go.  This is quickly becoming an active transportation highway, so follow the rules of the road.  Perfect excuse to dust off that new fitness tracker you got for Christmas and never learned how to use.  Video

3) Musquodoboit Trailway.  This area is for the experienced and the fit.  If you love being challenged on your hikes, this is the place to go.  The old adage that good things come with hard work is proven here.  Another one of those spots that you'll wonder how you never knew about it if you've never been.  Bring a camera and a lunch. Video

2) Polly's Cove.  If you've spent more than an hour in Nova Scotia, it usually means you've been to Peggy's Cove.  Rightfully so. It's absolutely beautiful. If you can't take a photo that gets at least 10 "likes" there, you obviously need a new camera.  What's lesser-known is the nearby hiking trails of Polly's Cove.  If you want a different perspective on Peggy's Cove, head there.  You get all the benefits of Peggy's Cove (astounding coastal beauty) without the crowds.  Peggy's Cove looks just as cool from a distance. Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom.  You'll see the area in a way you haven't seen it before. Video

1) Kearney Lake Trails.  This area is set to become part of one of the most spectacular urban parks in North America.  Haven't been there? Go.  Here's a few reasons why: 1) If you've ever been to Kejimkujik National Park, you'll be astounded to see the same kind of setting right here in our backyard.  Pristine un-touched lakes, surrounded by old-growth forest. It's something you'd normally have to drive hours to find. 2) In the Spring, without full foliage, it's easier to navigate.  For the same reason, you have more views of the lakes.  3) Unbeatable authentic hiking experience.  If you appreciate a raw, natural hike, this place has everything you've been looking for. Video

This list could easily contain many other places, and the order is merely a formality. The important thing is to get outside and get acquainted with the assets that make Halifax such a unique city.  Don't forget to share your experiences with us on Facebook and Twitter (@halifaxtrails)

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