Cape Split hiking in Blomiden, Nova Scotia

Cape Split is commonly touted as a must-do hike if you’re visiting the Maritimes. While the trail is no more technical than a walk at your local park, the total length of 12-15km can be a bit of a slog for some.

A scenic drive 1.5hrs out of Halifax gets you to the trailhead, where a large lot with ample parking awaits. Some pit toilets are available at the entrance. There are two routes that can be linked up to form a loop, the older North trail and a newer South trail. An unmarked turn-off near the beginning of the trail will have you heading steeply down the hillside towards Amethyst Cove, a more rigorous hike for a different day when the tides align.

The trails are muddy at times, though the South is drier than the North. It’s nothing to worry about if you’re sporting proper hiking footwear, but there wasn’t much difficulty to walk around the muddy areas. Several look-offs are available along the journey, though as of Fall 2021 the lack of benches make it a bit difficult to pause for a snack.

The pay-off is well worth it! The forest gives way to a grassy field that’s perfect for a picnic as you enjoy being up on the dizzying cliffs. There’s some spots for the brave of heart to get a glimpse of the crashing ocean and sandy beaches down below. Rock formations jut out of the sea metamorphise with the changing tides. You feel both the power and the precariousness of the earth – the same land that withstands the water occasionally succumbs to it, and you’re reminded to beware the erosion of the cliffs.

Our roundtrip include ample time for lunch and exploring the many viewpoints at the cliffs took 4.5hrs. Going in mid-October added on to the treat as we got to enjoy the bright foliage along the route.