Polly's Cove

Halifax Trails

HRM Trail Guide

Polly’s Cove

Difficulty: Easy to difficult (terrain).

Setting: Coastline, barrens, rock and boulders, scrub brush

Facilities: minimal parking, no facilities

Interpretation/Signage: None

Trail Summary

· One main entry trail, many natural paths through brush and across rocks.

· Spectacular views of the Atlantic coastline and Peggy’s Cove area.

· Space for 2 cars to park.

Polly’s Cove is situated 2km away from the entrance to world famous Peggy’s Cove, or just after West Dover on the left side of the road if coming from Halifax. It is easy to miss, since there are no signs, and there is only a dirt parking area big enough for a couple of cars. The only indication of the trail head may be the other cars already parked or pulled over there.

Most people when they head out to this area only visit Peggy’s Cove, but I would highly recommend also visiting the nearby Swissair disaster memorial, as well as the Polly’s Cove area to get a much better overall feel for the landscape in its entirety. From Polly’s Cove you have plenty of room to explore, while also getting great views of Peggy’s Cove from a distance.

“Bouldering” and “rock scampering” are perfect activities for this area, but take care not to disrupt the fragile eco-system found around the rocks.

While the trails are not difficult, they may not be for the inexperienced hiker as they are unmarked, include a number of obstacles, and at times involve climbing, and getting your feet wet.