From the Nova Scotia Hiking Trail Guide
- Guide category: Summit Trails
- Length: 11.3 km (return)
- Difficulty: 4D
- Duration: 5 hours
- Book trailhead: N44 47.462 W63 08.981
Litter Receptacle
Restrooms / Pit Toilet
Parking
Pets on leash / Dog friendly
Stay on trail
TrailheadA popular wilderness hiking loop on a clear day. Good training for more serious hiking.
Admiral Lake Loop is on the high end of a moderately challenging wilderness hike, with many hilly and rocky sections. The hiking trail is well-marked, and not long, but it is only accessible by the Musquodoboit Trailway , which adds a few kilometres to the overall distance. There are a number of great lookout and picnic spots on the hilltop. The view is far-reaching from the eastern shore out into the Atlantic ocean. Watch this trail on YouTube.
Trip Summary
Trip Stats
Elevation Profile
Terrain & Pace Summary
A demanding climb with 784 m of elevation gain over 11.3 km (69 m/km). Expect sustained ascent and a real workout.
Easy 3.0 km/h pace — plenty of time to take in the surroundings.
Stops Along the Way
Stops detected where GPS movement paused for 5 minutes or more — likely a viewpoint, snack break, or photo opportunity.
Trails Near This Route
Nearby Trails
Trail Access & Pass Information
- Check your provincial / state OHV registration requirements before riding.
- Verify gate and seasonal-closure status with a local ATV club or land manager.
- Some trail networks require a separate trail pass — confirm with the local OHV association.
Decided to take advantage of a cool morning and do the 10km loop along the Musquodoboit Traillway Association trail: Admiral Lake Loop trail.
This is a wilderness type trail and some sections along a cliff which overlooks the nearby harbour and into the Atlantic Ocean.
We started out along the rails to trail terminus and hike for almost 4km before we took the trailhead for the actual loop. We decided to the “long” way, which is to finish at the lookout, then downhill to about 1.7km from the car. Most people would just head up the steep incline to the lookout for a much shorter hike.
Trail is well maintained for wilderness hiking, there is some primitive facilities along the trailway section, but one you are on the loop there is nothing.
Along the way there are a number of sights such as Skull Rock, Rolling Stone, the Cave and of course a fantastic view of Admiral Lake which is essentially on the other side of the cliff.
Good footwear, water and usual hiking essentials for this hike. You can bring your dog, but be mindful of the steep section at the various lookoffs where the steep drop is substantial.
http://www.mta-ns.ca/Index.asp?inc=AdmiralLoop&s=Spring