Hiking in Polly Cove Hiking Trail: trails, map and practical info

Polly's Cove is a coastal area on Route 333 between Peggy's Cove and West Dover, Nova Scotia. Its trails are unmarked and unmanaged.

Finding the trailhead

The Nova Scotia Wild Flora Society places the trailhead on Route 333, about 1.5 km past Peggy's Cove, with one parking area on each side of the road. HalifaxTrails.ca puts it about 2 km from the entrance to Peggy's Cove and notes that it is easy to miss because there are no signs and the gravel parking areas hold only a few cars. If both are full, that guide suggests the Long Lake trails at West Dover Provincial Park, a short distance down the road, which have a much larger parking area.

The trails

• There are no signs, garbage cans, washrooms or trail crews, according to HalifaxTrails.ca.
• HalifaxTrails.ca rates the terrain and navigation as moderate to rugged and not ideal for beginners; the Nova Scotia Wild Flora Society describes the trail as moderately difficult, depending on the route taken.
• The trail network can easily turn into a maze. Because the area is unmanaged wilderness, HalifaxTrails.ca asks hikers to stay on existing paths, since trail-braiding can cause irreparable ecosystem damage.

Landscape and wildlife

The Nova Scotia Wild Flora Society describes the area as filled with granite whale backs, barrens, bogs and small ponds. HalifaxTrails.ca adds that the landscape is dotted with huge glacial erratics, boulders deposited thousands of years ago by retreating glaciers. Depending on the season, the same guide lists wild cranberries, black crowberries and sheep laurel, and mentions birdlife that includes cormorants drying their wings.

Weather and footwear

Expect high winds and sudden fog that can drop the temperature by several degrees Celsius within minutes (HalifaxTrails.ca). Solid, waterproof hiking boots with reliable grip are described as a must for the slippery rocks and mud, and the Wild Flora Society notes that some areas may be flooded. HalifaxTrails.ca also recommends hiking gaiters and durable pants or knee-high socks.