Outdoor Activities in Nova Scotia
• A WorldWeb.com Travel Guide for Nova Scotia, Atlantic Canada.
Imagine a place where maritime hospitality collides with mighty wilderness and merges with rich history, strong traditional values, metropolitan sophistication and cultural diversity. The result is Nova Scotia, one of Canada's oldest regions and one of its tourism hotspots. Identified as "Canada's Ocean Playground" by the provincial tourism board, Nova Scotia offers everything an outdoor adventurer could hope for: sandy beaches, bountiful parks, untainted waterways, towering waves, snowy plains, backcountry wilds, rolling fairways, and an extensive network of meandering nature trails and pathways.
OUTDOOR FACILITIES
What separates Nova Scotia from much of the rest of Canada is its abundant beaches. Being a uniquely shaped peninsula, this province is surrounded on almost all sides by ocean, so every Nova Scotian destination has some sort of beach nearby. The province's prime beach spot seems to be the shoreline of the Northumberland Strait, where warm water and white sand is the norm. In addition, there are plenty of beaches on either side of Halifax. Nova Scotia also has a number of freshwater, inland lakes which have beaches and park facilities.
This lush and fertile land is covered in parks, meadows and woodlands. Nova Scotia has two national parks, Kejimkujik and Cape Breton Highlands. Kejimkujik National Park is well-known for having several lakes and rivers, which combine to form a series of scenic canoe routes. Cape Breton Highlands National Park has spectacular scenery and human history that dates back to the last ice age. Nova Scotia also boasts over 120 provincial parks, most of which have camping facilities, beaches and picnic areas.
ON THE WATER
Most boat tours in Nova Scotia satisfy a specific purpose, whether it be whale watching, birdwatching, diving, fishing, or just touring around.
Whale Watching
Whale-watching tours are extremely popular; tourists jump at the chance to see humpback, minke, pilot and finback whales in their natural habitat. Right whales—a rare species that is currently classified as endangered—are also frequently seen around the Bay of Fundy area. Over 30 companies currently offer whale-watching tours in Nova Scotia, but the demand is so high that tourists are still encouraged to make reservations before their trip.
Sailing
Sailing is a popular way to explore the hidden coves and scenic shorelines of Nova Scotia, and the province is regarded as one of the top sailing destinations in North America. Excursions range from single-day journeys aboard small crafts to multi-day adventures aboard mighty schooners. The historic Bluenose II is famous around the world as the younger sibling to the Bluenose, which is depicted on the Canadian dime. Cruises on the government-owned Bluenose II are available to the public, and the ship makes frequent public appearances at events throughout the province.
Fishing
Anglers are always excited at the prospect of doing some deep-sea fishing. Nova Scotia's waters are full of numerous marine species, including Atlantic cod, mackerel, rainbow trout, haddock, flounder and salmon. Shark fishing is an especially popular challenge, although it is often allowed on a catch-and-release basis only. Nova Scotia is renowned for its abundance of the world-famous crustacean delicacy, lobster. Lobster fishing tours are extremely popular, perhaps because guests are allowed to keep their catches.
Kayaking & Canoeing
Visitors who want to get to know the Nova Scotian marine habitat on a more intimate basis should venture out on a canoe or kayak. Kejimkujik National Park is renowned for its extensive network of scenic canoe routes, as is the Dartmouth Lakes region near Halifax. Sea kayaking is available throughout the region, with Cape Breton being an especially popular place to explore. Nova Scotia's shoreline is dotted with hidden sea caverns that are fascinating to explore, though they are best investigated with an experienced guide.
Rafting
Go against the tide by taking a rafting trip. The famous Bay of Fundy creates a powerful tidal bore that reverses the flow of rivers in the seaside province, making it possible to raft up the river rather than down it. Nova Scotia's longest river, the Shubenacadie, is a great place for up-water whitewater rafting excursions, and numerous companies offer half, full or multi-day river trips.
Scuba Diving
Nova Scotia boasts some of the best cold-water diving in Canada and the world. Situated close to many prominent ship routes, the province has been the site of many shipwrecks throughout time. In fact, the coast surrounding the province has seen over 3,000 shipwrecks, many of which can be explored today. One of the most well-known shipwrecks is the Atlantic, a passenger steamer that crashed near Liverpool in 1873, killing 562 of its passengers and crew (371 survived). Though the remains have broken up over the years, the site is still a popular diving spot. Those interested in exploring Nova Scotia underwater should head to the nearest dive shop, where they will find a comprehensive map of the best dive spots.
Surfing
Surfing is quickly gaining popularity in Nova Scotia. In fact, the south shore and the Bay of Fundy regions both boast some of the highest waves in the world. The surf season runs from August to November, when the southeast portion of the USA gets hit with hurricanes, causing a ripple effect in Canada. At present, surfing in Nova Scotia is especially exciting because of the lack of crowds, but that is sure to change as more people discover the region's potential as a surf haven. Local surf shops offer surfing instruction and rentals to visitors who are interested in experiencing this thrilling sport.
THROUGH THE SNOW
The province's winter climate is usually moderate, with temperatures normally dipping only a degree or two below freezing. From December to March, the province is covered in a blanket of fresh, white snow, providing visitors with the perfect winter wonderland backdrop for their seasonal visit.
Skiing is a popular winter sport in Nova Scotia, though true mountain dwellers will insist that Nova Scotia's mountains aren't so much mountains as they are big hills. Nevertheless, the province has four well-known ski hills that each have around 20 intermediate to easy runs. Cape Breton's Cape Smokey Ski Resort has the highest elevation at 320 m (1,050 ft) and is known around Nova Scotia as offering the province's best skiing opportunities. Ski hills in Nova Scotia are typically open from early December to early April.
Those with a sense of adventure should sign up for a snowmobile tour or rent a snowmobile and embark on a self-guided tour. The Snowmobilers Association of Nova Scotia has made this province into a complex network of well-maintained snowmobile trails. In fact, there are over 3,000 km (1864 mi) of trails waiting to be explored, but adventurers must pay a small maintenance fee to gain access. The pass can be purchased through local tour operators and outdoor equipment stores.
People looking for a more secluded snow-based activity can try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Kejimkujik National Park and Beaver Mountain Provincial Park are just two of the wilderness paradises where facility usage is encouraged in winter. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing allow visitors to fully explore Nova Scotia's wilderness without the hassles of loud motors and menacing crowds. Wildlife sightings are common in the off-season, so don't forget to bring a camera.
IN THE AIR
For those wishing to experience Nova Scotia on a grander scale, sightseeing by airplane is a great way to see the province from a bird's-eye perspective. Charter flights, custom sightseeing tours, aircraft rentals and aerial photography excursions are just some of the services offered at the many flight centres throughout the region. Airplane tours are not only exciting, but they are often affordable too.
For those who feel that seeing the region from the sky is just not exciting enough, jumping out of an airplane and plummeting towards the earth is always an option. Several tour companies offer skydiving and paragliding excursions throughout the region.
OVERLAND
On Two Wheels
The old-fashioned fishing villages and rural townscapes that make up Nova Scotia are sometimes best enjoyed from the seat of a bicycle. Bike tours of the region can range from a few hours in length to a few days, and can cover any of the province's attractions, from the lighthouses and fishing villages of the eastern shore to the grand Acadian architecture of the Evangeline trail, and from the warm, sandy beaches of the sunrise shore to the wild backcountry of the highlands. Biking in Nova Scotia is a great way to experience true maritime hospitality at a slower pace.
On the Green
Nova Scotia is the offspring of Scotland, which is the birthplace of golf. Accordingly, the golfing opportunities in this lush province are not to be missed. Nova Scotia has over 75 golf courses, each offering a uniquely challenging experience. A large number of Nova Scotia's courses were designed by renowned golf architect Sir Stanley Thompson, who is considered the founding father of the modern golf course. Cape Breton is especially well-known for its golf courses, most of which offer ocean views and quiet, rural settings.
On Four Legs
Some people prefer to explore Nova Scotia the way the early settlers did—on horseback. Horseback riding and hayrides offer the perfect way to see the pastoral communities of this maritime region. Riding tours can range anywhere from a few hours to a few days. The Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island draws many eager equestrians, who are seduced by the chance to see some of the most picturesque vistas Canada has to offer. The Evangeline trail is also a popular route to saddle up on, as it offers the chance to delve into rural Acadian culture and learn about the province's rich heritage. In the winter, sleigh rides are an idyllic means of seeing the province. Just grab a hot chocolate, snuggle up under a warm blanket, and watch this winter wonderland pass by.
On Two Feet
Exploring this rich province on foot allows for in-depth discovery of Nova Scotia's many attractions, including its diverse wildlife, charming fishing villages, hidden shoreline coves, pastoral scenery and abounding culture. Walking tours vary from guided urban sightseeing walks to adventurous nature hikes through secluded backwoods. Many of Nova Scotia's provincial parks offer easy 2- or 3-km (1.2 or 1.8 mi) looped trails that offer a chance to explore the wilderness without making a day of it, and backcountry enthusiasts can easily find a multi-day trail that is sure to excite and challenge them.
Nova Scotia has a remarkable topological history, and geologically-based walking tours are especially prevalent in the region. The cliffs surrounding the Bay of Fundy have significant fossil and mineral formations, which are visible after years of erosion. One especially significant mineral, gold, has been found at various spots around the province, and tour companies nowadays offer visitors the chance to sift through sediments in the hopes of finding an ever-precious nugget.
Traditional walking tours have recently spawned a new type of themed excursion—ghost tours. Halifax has an especially dark and fascinating history, filled with tales of pirates and buried treasure, murders and explosions. Besides being spooky and fun, ghost tours offer a glimpse into the rich and complex history of Nova Scotia. During the tourist season, these tours depart nightly, but they aren't for the faint of heart.
DISTINCTLY NOVA SCOTIA
Few images are as intimately linked with the Maritimes as lighthouses. Once a beacon of safety for seafarers, these mighty objects now act as museums, interpretive centres, park centrepieces and occasionally even as lighthouses. Nova Scotia's southeastern shore is known as the Lighthouse Trail because of its rugged shoreline and quaint fishing villages, and is the perfect place for lighthouse enthusiasts to get their fix. Numerous tour operators offer bike, boat and walking tours aimed at exploring Nova Scotia's lighthouses. Those who just can't get enough should visit the Nova Scotia Lighthouse Interpretive Centre, located in Port Bickerton, near Sherbrooke.
OUTDOOR FACILITIES
What separates Nova Scotia from much of the rest of Canada is its abundant beaches. Being a uniquely shaped peninsula, this province is surrounded on almost all sides by ocean, so every Nova Scotian destination has some sort of beach nearby. The province's prime beach spot seems to be the shoreline of the Northumberland Strait, where warm water and white sand is the norm. In addition, there are plenty of beaches on either side of Halifax. Nova Scotia also has a number of freshwater, inland lakes which have beaches and park facilities.
This lush and fertile land is covered in parks, meadows and woodlands. Nova Scotia has two national parks, Kejimkujik and Cape Breton Highlands. Kejimkujik National Park is well-known for having several lakes and rivers, which combine to form a series of scenic canoe routes. Cape Breton Highlands National Park has spectacular scenery and human history that dates back to the last ice age. Nova Scotia also boasts over 120 provincial parks, most of which have camping facilities, beaches and picnic areas.
ON THE WATER
Most boat tours in Nova Scotia satisfy a specific purpose, whether it be whale watching, birdwatching, diving, fishing, or just touring around.
Whale Watching
Whale-watching tours are extremely popular; tourists jump at the chance to see humpback, minke, pilot and finback whales in their natural habitat. Right whales—a rare species that is currently classified as endangered—are also frequently seen around the Bay of Fundy area. Over 30 companies currently offer whale-watching tours in Nova Scotia, but the demand is so high that tourists are still encouraged to make reservations before their trip.
Sailing
Sailing is a popular way to explore the hidden coves and scenic shorelines of Nova Scotia, and the province is regarded as one of the top sailing destinations in North America. Excursions range from single-day journeys aboard small crafts to multi-day adventures aboard mighty schooners. The historic Bluenose II is famous around the world as the younger sibling to the Bluenose, which is depicted on the Canadian dime. Cruises on the government-owned Bluenose II are available to the public, and the ship makes frequent public appearances at events throughout the province.
Fishing
Anglers are always excited at the prospect of doing some deep-sea fishing. Nova Scotia's waters are full of numerous marine species, including Atlantic cod, mackerel, rainbow trout, haddock, flounder and salmon. Shark fishing is an especially popular challenge, although it is often allowed on a catch-and-release basis only. Nova Scotia is renowned for its abundance of the world-famous crustacean delicacy, lobster. Lobster fishing tours are extremely popular, perhaps because guests are allowed to keep their catches.
Kayaking & Canoeing
Visitors who want to get to know the Nova Scotian marine habitat on a more intimate basis should venture out on a canoe or kayak. Kejimkujik National Park is renowned for its extensive network of scenic canoe routes, as is the Dartmouth Lakes region near Halifax. Sea kayaking is available throughout the region, with Cape Breton being an especially popular place to explore. Nova Scotia's shoreline is dotted with hidden sea caverns that are fascinating to explore, though they are best investigated with an experienced guide.
Rafting
Go against the tide by taking a rafting trip. The famous Bay of Fundy creates a powerful tidal bore that reverses the flow of rivers in the seaside province, making it possible to raft up the river rather than down it. Nova Scotia's longest river, the Shubenacadie, is a great place for up-water whitewater rafting excursions, and numerous companies offer half, full or multi-day river trips.
Scuba Diving
Nova Scotia boasts some of the best cold-water diving in Canada and the world. Situated close to many prominent ship routes, the province has been the site of many shipwrecks throughout time. In fact, the coast surrounding the province has seen over 3,000 shipwrecks, many of which can be explored today. One of the most well-known shipwrecks is the Atlantic, a passenger steamer that crashed near Liverpool in 1873, killing 562 of its passengers and crew (371 survived). Though the remains have broken up over the years, the site is still a popular diving spot. Those interested in exploring Nova Scotia underwater should head to the nearest dive shop, where they will find a comprehensive map of the best dive spots.
Surfing
Surfing is quickly gaining popularity in Nova Scotia. In fact, the south shore and the Bay of Fundy regions both boast some of the highest waves in the world. The surf season runs from August to November, when the southeast portion of the USA gets hit with hurricanes, causing a ripple effect in Canada. At present, surfing in Nova Scotia is especially exciting because of the lack of crowds, but that is sure to change as more people discover the region's potential as a surf haven. Local surf shops offer surfing instruction and rentals to visitors who are interested in experiencing this thrilling sport.
THROUGH THE SNOW
The province's winter climate is usually moderate, with temperatures normally dipping only a degree or two below freezing. From December to March, the province is covered in a blanket of fresh, white snow, providing visitors with the perfect winter wonderland backdrop for their seasonal visit.
Skiing is a popular winter sport in Nova Scotia, though true mountain dwellers will insist that Nova Scotia's mountains aren't so much mountains as they are big hills. Nevertheless, the province has four well-known ski hills that each have around 20 intermediate to easy runs. Cape Breton's Cape Smokey Ski Resort has the highest elevation at 320 m (1,050 ft) and is known around Nova Scotia as offering the province's best skiing opportunities. Ski hills in Nova Scotia are typically open from early December to early April.
Those with a sense of adventure should sign up for a snowmobile tour or rent a snowmobile and embark on a self-guided tour. The Snowmobilers Association of Nova Scotia has made this province into a complex network of well-maintained snowmobile trails. In fact, there are over 3,000 km (1864 mi) of trails waiting to be explored, but adventurers must pay a small maintenance fee to gain access. The pass can be purchased through local tour operators and outdoor equipment stores.
People looking for a more secluded snow-based activity can try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Kejimkujik National Park and Beaver Mountain Provincial Park are just two of the wilderness paradises where facility usage is encouraged in winter. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing allow visitors to fully explore Nova Scotia's wilderness without the hassles of loud motors and menacing crowds. Wildlife sightings are common in the off-season, so don't forget to bring a camera.
IN THE AIR
For those wishing to experience Nova Scotia on a grander scale, sightseeing by airplane is a great way to see the province from a bird's-eye perspective. Charter flights, custom sightseeing tours, aircraft rentals and aerial photography excursions are just some of the services offered at the many flight centres throughout the region. Airplane tours are not only exciting, but they are often affordable too.
For those who feel that seeing the region from the sky is just not exciting enough, jumping out of an airplane and plummeting towards the earth is always an option. Several tour companies offer skydiving and paragliding excursions throughout the region.
OVERLAND
On Two Wheels
The old-fashioned fishing villages and rural townscapes that make up Nova Scotia are sometimes best enjoyed from the seat of a bicycle. Bike tours of the region can range from a few hours in length to a few days, and can cover any of the province's attractions, from the lighthouses and fishing villages of the eastern shore to the grand Acadian architecture of the Evangeline trail, and from the warm, sandy beaches of the sunrise shore to the wild backcountry of the highlands. Biking in Nova Scotia is a great way to experience true maritime hospitality at a slower pace.
On the Green
Nova Scotia is the offspring of Scotland, which is the birthplace of golf. Accordingly, the golfing opportunities in this lush province are not to be missed. Nova Scotia has over 75 golf courses, each offering a uniquely challenging experience. A large number of Nova Scotia's courses were designed by renowned golf architect Sir Stanley Thompson, who is considered the founding father of the modern golf course. Cape Breton is especially well-known for its golf courses, most of which offer ocean views and quiet, rural settings.
On Four Legs
Some people prefer to explore Nova Scotia the way the early settlers did—on horseback. Horseback riding and hayrides offer the perfect way to see the pastoral communities of this maritime region. Riding tours can range anywhere from a few hours to a few days. The Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island draws many eager equestrians, who are seduced by the chance to see some of the most picturesque vistas Canada has to offer. The Evangeline trail is also a popular route to saddle up on, as it offers the chance to delve into rural Acadian culture and learn about the province's rich heritage. In the winter, sleigh rides are an idyllic means of seeing the province. Just grab a hot chocolate, snuggle up under a warm blanket, and watch this winter wonderland pass by.
On Two Feet
Exploring this rich province on foot allows for in-depth discovery of Nova Scotia's many attractions, including its diverse wildlife, charming fishing villages, hidden shoreline coves, pastoral scenery and abounding culture. Walking tours vary from guided urban sightseeing walks to adventurous nature hikes through secluded backwoods. Many of Nova Scotia's provincial parks offer easy 2- or 3-km (1.2 or 1.8 mi) looped trails that offer a chance to explore the wilderness without making a day of it, and backcountry enthusiasts can easily find a multi-day trail that is sure to excite and challenge them.
Nova Scotia has a remarkable topological history, and geologically-based walking tours are especially prevalent in the region. The cliffs surrounding the Bay of Fundy have significant fossil and mineral formations, which are visible after years of erosion. One especially significant mineral, gold, has been found at various spots around the province, and tour companies nowadays offer visitors the chance to sift through sediments in the hopes of finding an ever-precious nugget.
Traditional walking tours have recently spawned a new type of themed excursion—ghost tours. Halifax has an especially dark and fascinating history, filled with tales of pirates and buried treasure, murders and explosions. Besides being spooky and fun, ghost tours offer a glimpse into the rich and complex history of Nova Scotia. During the tourist season, these tours depart nightly, but they aren't for the faint of heart.
DISTINCTLY NOVA SCOTIA
Few images are as intimately linked with the Maritimes as lighthouses. Once a beacon of safety for seafarers, these mighty objects now act as museums, interpretive centres, park centrepieces and occasionally even as lighthouses. Nova Scotia's southeastern shore is known as the Lighthouse Trail because of its rugged shoreline and quaint fishing villages, and is the perfect place for lighthouse enthusiasts to get their fix. Numerous tour operators offer bike, boat and walking tours aimed at exploring Nova Scotia's lighthouses. Those who just can't get enough should visit the Nova Scotia Lighthouse Interpretive Centre, located in Port Bickerton, near Sherbrooke.
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