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Hiking in Burntcoat Head Park: trails, map and practical info

Glooscap Trail • Nova Scotia

4.8 Appreciated by 20 hikers
François Dumaine
By François DumaineContributor since 2022Updated 19/06/2026
Difficulty
Easy
Distance
1 km
Elevation
10 ft
Duration
30
Max altitude
14 ft

Experience the world's highest tides at this unique Nova Scotia destination where you can walk on the ocean floor during low tide. Located in Noel, Nova Scotia, the park features trails through stunning red sandstone cliffs overlooking the Bay of Fundy.

Recommended for :
Beginners

Ready to explore Burntcoat Head Park? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

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Trail description

What You'll Find at the Park

Burntcoat Head Park is a well-maintained day-use area along the Glooscap Trail, Nova Scotia's heritage driving route that follows the shores of the Minas Basin. The park is compact but thoughtfully set up, with a parking area, picnic facilities, and access points down to the shore. The historic Burntcoat Head Lighthouse is a striking landmark on the property, serving as a symbol of the region's maritime heritage and long history of guiding mariners through these waters.

The grounds above the cliffs offer good views over the Minas Basin, and the red sandstone cliffs themselves are a striking visual feature. The geology here is part of what makes the Bay of Fundy region so distinctive — these rust-coloured formations are ancient, and the tidal action has carved them into shapes you won't find anywhere else.

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
45 Faulkner Lane, Noel, NS B0N 2C0, Canada
GPS coordinates
45.3111989, -63.8072036
Phone
Not available

Starting Point

To access the hiking trails, head to the main parking lot located at 611 Burntcoat Head Road, Noel, Nova Scotia. This is the primary starting point for exploring the area.

When?

Opening hours
From sunrise to sunset
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
Loading

How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
45.3111989, -63.8072036
Center
Not available

Hikers' opinions

4.8
15 Reviews
M
Marcus
Nov 3, 2025
Burntcoat Head Park delivered an exceptional coastal experience with stunning cliff views overlooking the Bay of Fundy. The 1.5 km trail is manageable for most fitness levels, and the peaceful atmosphere made it ideal for a solo weekday visit. The dramatic landscape and crashing waves created an invigorating atmosphere that felt refreshing compared to typical inland hikes. I'd recommend visiting early morning to capture the best light and avoid crowds.
J
Jennifer
Sep 14, 2025
This park is a photographer's dream with mesmerizing cliff formations and dynamic skies over the Bay of Fundy. The late afternoon lighting was absolutely perfect for capturing stunning landscape shots. The natural beauty and dramatic coastal terrain provided endless photographic opportunities. Whether you're a serious photographer or casual nature enthusiast, the visual appeal of Burntcoat Head Park is truly exceptional and worth the visit.
D
David
Jul 22, 2025
The open spaces and vibrant flora at Burntcoat Head Park were genuinely appealing, and I observed several interesting bird species during my visit. However, rainy conditions made the trails muddy and less enjoyable. The surrounding natural environment is beautiful, but weather significantly impacts the experience. I'd recommend returning during sunnier conditions to fully appreciate what this coastal park has to offer.
S
Sarah
May 8, 2025
Burntcoat Head Park proved to be an excellent family destination with its serene coastal setting. The kids thoroughly enjoyed exploring the beach during low tide and discovering tide pools filled with marine life. The short 1.5 km trails are perfectly suited for younger hikers while still offering spectacular views of the Bay of Fundy. It's an ideal location for families seeking accessible nature experiences with educational opportunities.
R
Robert
Mar 19, 2025
The unique coastal terrain at Burntcoat Head Park provided a refreshing alternative to my usual mountain hiking experiences. The rocky cliffs and challenging terrain created interesting navigation opportunities, while the sound of waves crashing against the shore added to the invigorating atmosphere. The peaceful environment and natural beauty make it worth visiting, particularly during early morning hours when you can experience the sunrise over the water.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Easy
10.00
14.00
30
No
No
The main trail at Burntcoat Head Park takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. However, most visitors spend additional time observing the tidal changes and exploring the exposed ocean floor, so plan for at least 1-2 hours total for a full experience.
The hiking trail at Burntcoat Head Park is 1.5 km long, making it a short and accessible walk suitable for all fitness levels. The minimal distance combined with easy terrain makes it perfect for a quick visit to witness the world's highest tides.
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Update : June 2026