Thomas’ Cove Coastal Reserve is located on Economy Point, a large spit of coastal land jutting out into the waters from which the Mik’Maq word Kenomee (now Economy), is derived. An excellent vantage point for experiencing the ebb and flow of the mighty Fundy Tides. Thomas Cove is part of the Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Global Geopark.
Trail Head: A 2.3km drive past a magnificent beaver dam to a point where the road forks three ways, and taking a right turn leads you 1km along a wooded road to the parking lot in the middle of the Reserve.
Significant Features: Panoramic views of the Minas Basin; beach access; wildlife; wooded trails overlooking the bay; sandy beach; sandstone ledges; excellent place to experience how quickly the tide fills up the creek and cove.
Trail Length: 8km (2 loop trails)
Hiking Time: 1.5 hours each
The Reserve consists of 2 trails, Headlands Trail (4km) providing expansive views of the Minas Basin from Bruncoat Head to Walton and on to the cliffs of Cape Blomidon to Five Islands and Economy Mountain. The Economy Trail looking out onto sandstone ledges in the bay, Blomidon, Five Islands and the Economy coastline and Cobequid Hills as well as the Economy Riverbed.
Both trails lead you along sandstone cliffs to great lookoffs and beach access where sea caves and stacks have been formed by the Fundy Tides.
Shorebirds, bald eagles, screech owls, deer, foxes and occasionally a moose or bear can be seen. Many varieties of mushrooms and other fungi abound. Beach plants and woodland plants are also in abundance. Beautiful sunsets.
Recommended season is from June 1 to October (Thanksgiving weekend). Please be aware that caution is required when hiking during hunting season. Remember to wear clothing in appropriate colours (hunter orange).
The incoming tide can be treacherous, sweeping across the inter-tidal area very quickly in many places with tidal currents over 15km per hour, making the incoming and outgoing tides very dangerous.
For maps and more information visit Cliffs of Fundy Geopark Welcome Centre and WWII Tower, 3246 Hwy. 2, Central Economy.
