Don’t let cool temperatures and snow keep you indoors; embrace winter in Halifax!
Head out on a snowshoe adventure for a whole new way to experience some of your favourite warm-weather outdoor spaces in the Halifax Region!
Want to rent snowshoes for your winter adventure? Rent a pair for free with a piece of government-issued photo ID at the Emera Oval or head over to The Trail Shop to rent a pair for $15 a day.
Check out Hike Nova Scotia’s list of places to Borrow, Rent or Buy Snowshoes in the Halifax Region.
1. Halifax Common
If you are a beginner and are looking to try snowshoeing close to home, try the flat terrain of the Halifax Common.
For those without their own pair of snowshoes, the Halifax Regional Municipality offers free equipment rentals at the Emera Oval during public skate times throughout the winter, including helmets, hockey skates, figure skates, speed skates, and snowshoes.
Note: Be sure to bring your government-issued photo ID to borrow equipment!
2. Shubie Park
Located on the north side of Lake Micmac in Dartmouth, Shubie Park is a 16-hectare urban park that’s perfect for snowshoeing.
Three main routes are found in the park: Trans Canada Trail, park walking trails and off-leash dog walking trails. Pick your route accordingly and expect to see plenty of people.
Local Tip: If a quiet experience is what you are looking for, time your visit with fresh snowfall before the public hits the trails!
3. Sir Sandford Fleming Park
Ideal for multiple skill levels and abilities, Sir Sandford Fleming Park is a well-maintained park for winter activity.
Located along Purcells Cove Road, Fleming Park has route options that will bring you to the Northwest Arm, Dingle Tower, through the forest, and along the well-known Frog Pond Trail.
4. The Buff Wilderness Hiking Trail
Found south of Highway 103 near Timberlea, The Bluff Wilderness Hiking Trail is a popular hiking trail located on Crown Land.
There are plenty of visual rewards along this route with views of protected forest, waterways and rock faces.
Although multiple trail options and distances are available, proceed with caution as this trail is not for the inexperienced.
5. MacDonald Sports Park
Found in Waverley alongside Lake Thomas, MacDonald Sports Park is a multipurpose park with lake frontage, open fields, and natural forests.
Nearly 5km of trails are available to explore with plenty of opportunities to stop and rest at picnic areas.
This is a popular park for cross-country skiers, so expect to share the trails!
As always, when heading out on a trail be prepared for changing weather. Make sure you have a charged cell phone, a first aid kit, a snack, and plenty of warm clothing.
Halifax Trails has some sage advice to review before hitting the trails, and Hike Nova Scotia provides a handy snowshoeing how-to & info guide.
Rediscover Halifax
Whether you’re a local looking for staycation ideas, visiting from further away, or planning a future adventure, get inspired to discover the Halifax region with the latest local and traveller photos from Halifax.
