Tuesday, October 14, 2008

U Gotta Hike Cape Split,
Annapolis Valley, Nova Scotia

From left to right: Amy, Mandy, Jett (Mandy's dog), and me on the Cape Split hiking trailAmy, Mandy, Jett (Mandy's dog) and I excitedly jumped into my car at around 10 a.m. on Saturday morning, and we headed to the beautiful Annapolis Valley to hike Cape Split, Nova Scotia... finally! Although I grew up in the valley, this was my first Cape Split experience.

Following Highway 101, we took Exit 11 to the 358 North and drove to Scott's Bay. Then we followed the Cape Split signs to the trailhead. Since my boyfriend Steve had hiked to Cape Spilt a few times, I knew we needed to stick close to the fence on our right until we hit a well-trodden path through the woods. Luckily, there was a couple ahead of us who seemed to know what they were doing, and we had no trouble finding the path.

Cape Split, Annapolis Valley, Nova ScotiaGradually we made our way up-hill, and over many rocks and roots. We passed a bunch of other hikers along the way, which was not surprise given the beautiful weather.

After about an hour of walking at an energetic pace (to keep up with Jett - LOL), the path opened up to some grassy clearings and magnificent cliffs. On this crystal clear day, we saw the most amazing views of the Bay of Fundy shores I have ever seen.

All in all, the hike only took us about three hours in and out, but we did jog a bit of the way, and we didn't spend too much time admiring the views of the cliffs and the shoreline. Next time, I think I'll be more ambitious and take a full picnic with me.

Blomidon Look-off, Annapolis Valley, Nova ScotiaOn the drive back down the mountain, we stopped at the Blomidon Look-off to grab a couple of shots of the Annapolis Valley's beautiful fall colours. Check out Amy's amazing pic. It's hard to believe the view is even more spectacular in person.

3 comments:

Unknown said...

These pictures do not do it justice! It was one of the most beautiful sights I've seen! As a native Manitoban, I have been out in Halifax for 8 years. Sadly, it was only recently that I made it to Cape Split. The cliffs in this province are quite the sight for this prairie girl (turned Nova Scotian!).

Definitely worth exploring!

Cheers,
Mandy

Maria McGowan said...

Nice post. Hiked this when I was 15 and even then it was fun.

Anonymous said...

Cape Split in Nova Scotia's Annapolis Valley looks like a great attraction for my next Nova Scotia vacation. I've already experienced abundant food and wine in Halifax Metro and some of the history and heritage of Cape Breton Island. I am definitely looking forward to more outdoor adventure both on the Fundy Shore and in the valley. Lucky for me, one of my best friends is a native and can provide accommodations in Nova Scotia. She can also recommend events and festivals in Halifax, sightseeing tours of the South Shore, and the best beaches on the Northumberland Shore for baby crab spotting. Maybe you can use her knowledge for articles at Nova Scotia Vacation Ideas? When it comes to sights on the Yarmouth and Acadian Shores, she's a little lacking. Can you recommend any Yarmouth tours and cruises?