Hiking to Cape Split, Nova Scotia

Exploring the Tip of Blomidon Peninsula

Mar 7, 2009 Melody Rhodes

Stunning Cape Split on Blomidon Peninsula, is recognized the world over as a hiking destination must-see.

Outdoor enthusiasts can experience nature in all its glory in this unique and pristine wilderness area. Cape Split offers hikers a glimpse of rare vegetation, colonies of seabirds and marine life, set against a backdrop of sparkling ocean waters.

Cape Split is an area of geological interest. The Cape is a fishhook-shaped peninsula that curls out into the Bay of Fundy, a finger of land lashed mercilessly by the powerful Fundy tides. Cape Split's most stunning feature, however, is a sizable cleft or fracture that defines it from other promontories nearby. The Cape Split V-shaped crevice is viewable for miles off.

The impressive split is found towards the end (tip) of the peninsula. Past the split, Basaltic sea stacks push through the water like jagged, broken teeth. From this area, visitors can view rip tides and the tidal bore.

Blomidon's Cape Split offers a vantage point that provides panoramic views of North Mountain on one side and the Parrsboro shore area on the other. Vistas stretch off in the distance towards Cape d'Or and Cape Chignecto Provincial Park.

Getting to Cape Split

From Wolfville, travelers follow highway 358 north to a look-off and parking area. The road continues, descending to Scott's Bay. A parking lot and trail-head await. Past a fence, two trails climb to the spectacular Cape Split rock formations.

Cape Split Hiking Trails

• Moderate Inland Trail: To the right is an easier and safer inland trail suitable for most hikers.

• Difficult Coast Trail: To the left is the cliff-side trail. Care should be taken when navigating this path because of ongoing erosion.

• Hikers should use caution when traveling either trial because of gnarled tree roots and sheer drops.

Cape Split is accessible by boat or the hiking trails, which start at sea level and ascend to approximately 200'. Hiking to the Split is a favorite excursion and takes a couple of hours both ways. The trail meanders through forests and by way of open meadows that lead to the world famous Split.

• The meadow overlooking the Split is a good place to rest and enjoy a picnic lunch, while enjoying the views.

• The return trail passes by Amethyst Cove, a spot where interesting minerals such as natrolite and amethystine quartz have been discovered. The cove can be explored by roping down to the beach when the tide is out.

In recent years, the Nova Scotia Government has acquired the wilderness area in Blomidon Provincial Park, acting to protect it for the enjoyment of Nova Scotians and visitors alike. The acquisition of Cape Split is considered one of the most significant in the province.

Cape Split bears testimony to the awesome power of nature. Visitors will be struck by the sheer majesty of this unique-looking landmark in the Bay of Fundy.

Cape Split Information

• Province Acquires the Cape Split Property

• Video of Cape Split, Nova Scotia

Nearby Hiking Areas

• Day-Hiking on Partridge Island, Nova Scotia