Kings County: Trails, Forests and Clifftop Views

Kings County appeals to travelers who like to spend their days outdoors: one trail follows 183-meter-high sea cliffs, while others explore forests, viewpoints and a range of activities. There are also trails with different profiles—from a moderate hike to a network of connected trails and an easy fitness loop. If you’re looking for a vacation rental, you can use these nature experiences as a starting point for deciding what kind of stay you’d like.

Hiking Trails with Different Profiles

Cape Split offers a moderate hike inland. The route is about 13.2 kilometers long and includes the return journey. This figure therefore describes the entire hike, not just one way. The Blomidon Hiking Trails offer a different focus: their 13.5-kilometer network of connected trails provides access to a variety of habitats and viewpoints. If you like to make different natural settings and views the focus of a day’s hike, you’ll find a different trail format here than on the clearly defined out-and-back route.

The 183-meter-high sea cliffs define the landscape along the Jodrey Trail. Several viewpoints offer views of the Minas Basin. This cliffside setting sets the trail apart from the forest paths and trail networks described above. As you plan your trip, consider whether you’re most interested in views of the basin, a variety of habitats or a particular hiking route.

Forests, Viewpoints and Activities

The Acadia Nature Trail passes through a wooded area north of Acadia University, with information available along the way. At Reservoir Park, panoramic views of Cape Blomidon and the Minas Basin take center stage. The trail also offers an unsupervised beach at a pond and access to the Millennium Trail. This route combines viewpoints with other places you can include in your nature experiences.

The Stronach Park & Fitness Trail is an easy loop through the forest with several fitness stations. The Gorge has several trails for walking, hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. This expands the options beyond hiking: depending on which activity interests you, you can explore forest trails, fitness stations or one of the other activities mentioned.

Kentville Ravine also has a distinctive natural character. It is home to one of the few remaining old-growth hemlock forests in eastern Canada. The trails are used by recreational hikers and naturalists. If you’re interested in old-growth forests, you’ll find a distinct focus here alongside the cliffs, viewpoints and varied trails.

The Waterville Recreation Club makes 17 acres of meadow and forest with walking trails available to the public. The grounds also include an off-leash dog park. If you’re traveling with a dog, you can factor this specific amenity into your plans; off-leash access applies to the dog park.

Plan Your Stay Around Your Interests

More places in Kings County: Wolfville, New Minas, Grand Pré, Aylesford, Centreville, Canning, Port Williams, Berwick, Coldbrook, Greenwood, Kentville and Kingston.

See the wider travel overview: Nova Scotia.