This trail branches from the Harbour Rocks Trail, and crosses an extensive bog to a viewing platform overlooking Boyds Cove. The trail skirts clumps of coastal forest, which provide shelter for white-tailed deer and forest birds, and then follows the coast to Port Joli Head. Here is the full force of the ocean. Crashing surf announces the energy of the waves, the wind whips salty spray into the air, cobbles clatter as the waves recede, cries of gulls and eiders drift ashore, and the smell of seaweed is heavy in the air. Large boulders left behind by the glaciers sit perched on the rocky headlands, now encrusted with orange coastal lichens. When you explore these headlands be careful to keep your distance from the water’s edge, since rogue waves can wash across them.
From Port Joli Head, the trail loops along the shoreline to Harbour Rocks Beach.
Trailhead: Departs from Kejimkujik Seaside parking lot
Significant Feature: Hike the headlands of Kejimkujik Seaside. Watch the swells roll in from the North Atlantic Ocean and waves crash against the cobble beach. Experience forests which are stunted by the rugged weather of the Atlantic seacoast.
Length: 8 kilometres (5 miles) return to the parking lot
Hiking Time: 2.5 hours
Trail Rating: Moderate
The trails at Kejimkujik (Maitland Bridge, NS) and at Kejimkujik Seaside (Port Joli, NS) showcase an incredible variety of habitats, scenery and places of cultural and historical significance. Please visit our website for maps and information on visitor safety and visitor services.
Be responsible for your safety:
Ensure that dogs are kept leashed and do not approach, disturb or feed wild animals
Take along appropriate clothing – rapid weather changes often occur at Kejimkujik Seaside
Have adequate sun protection (hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses) and carry water with you, especially for longer trails, climbs or open barrens
Wear proper hiking footwear. Trail surface is variable and includes both graveled and natural surfaces, uneven terrain, loose beach cobble, and wet surfaces
Bring insect repellent as black flies and mosquitoes are common all summer
Stay on designated paths and boardwalks to protect fragile vegetation and to reduce your chances of encountering ticks
Mountain bikes are permitted only where indicated, for visitor safety and protection of the environment
Tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back
Date Details/Hours of Operation
Visit the website for hours and seasonal information. No maintenance in off-season.
