Gaff Point, Nova Scotia

Most places under NCC's care welcome visitors. Please check site-specific pages on this website for access information and any special restrictions.

Gaff Point is ecologically significant as an unspoiled, and undeveloped, spectacularly beautiful headland along a shore that is rapidly being developed. It provides a link between the dune systems of Mosher's and Hirtle's Beach. Hirtle's Beach was designated a Protected Beach under the Beaches Protection Act in 1975. Gaff Point represents a unique, coastal habitat consisting of mixed woods, heathers and grasslands, which is used by local residents for hiking and the enjoyment of nature.

Trail length: 6.5-km loop from the parking lot
Hike difficulty: Moderate. Requires crossing a cobble beach (high tide) or sand (low tide) to reach the trails on Gaff Point.
Amenities on-site: Parking lot on Hirtles Beach (provincial beach), which leads to Gaff Point

Points of interest

Cross Hirtle’s Beach, a popular swimming spot, to reach the trailhead.
Trail winds through coastal forest, open heaths and out to cliffs with views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Species you can look out for

common eider
common loon
fin whales
grey seals
harbour porpoises

Directions

From Lunenburg, travel west on Route 3.
Turn left (south) on Hwy 332 to Rosebay.
Turn onto Kingsburg Rd.
Turn right onto Upper Kingsburg Rd to the Hirtle’s Beach parking lot.
Walk to opposite end of beach to trailhead.

Contact information

902-405-4334 or 1-877-231-3552

Learn more about Gaff Point here >

All visitors to NCC properties do so at their own risk.

Visitor information

When visiting the property, please:

Respect the wildlife and other visitors.
Travel on designated paths only.
Ensure that all dogs are accompanied by their owner and controlled on a leash at all times.
Refrain from lighting fires or smoking.
Remove your own garbage, and please pick up after your pets.
Respect that the property does not permit the removal of any plants or animals.