Kenomee Canyon Trail is a spectacular 18-km wilderness hike into the Economy River Wilderness Area along the edge of the Economy River gorge. It is a challenging, overnight hiking experience. There are three designated wilderness campgrounds: Chain Lake Falls, Murphy Brook and Newton Lake. Register at Cobequid Interpretation Centre, Economy.
Trailhead: Economy Falls Parking area, approximately 7km from Rte 2 on River Philip Road at Central Economy.
Directions: To access the trail, follow Route 2 to Economy. Turn North onto River Phillip Road. This road is not paved or managed. It is very rough and not suitable for vehicles with a low carriage. Exercise extreme caution and use at own risk. Continue following main road and signs for 7 km to upper parking area near Economy Falls. (At about 1 km, at the top of the hill take time to enjoy a panoramic view of the Minas Basin and its tide.) At 7 km, turn right at the sign and continue a short distance to the parking lot.
Significant Features: A continuous climb into the Cobequid Mountain range, weaving in and out through old growth trees and those deformed (possibly by lightening strikes, wind or fires); babbling brooks, high cliffs in the area known as “the gorge”, where the locals like a challenging fishing experience, or a quiet lake where a loon will sing to you.
Length: 18km
Hiking Time: The trail can be hiked in 8-9 hours.
This is a special ecological area where development and resource extraction are not permitted and a mosaic of hardwood stands on the hilltops and spruce in the ravines.
The forests in this region will be allowed to mature and undergo natural forest processes. Visitors are asked to be vigilant in their care for the plants and animals within this area.
You will experience great fishing holes along the river and in the lake: 2 small waterfalls at camping spots; rock formations, fossils in 450 million year old rocks; numerous lichens; wildflowers; wildlife; challenging rock climbs; fording small brooks after heavy rains and the peace and quiet of nature at her best.
You may be fortunate enough to spot a mainland moose. Always give wild animals lots of space.
Campfires are not permitted in the protected area.
