Salt Marsh Trail to Lawrencetown Beach

The Salt Marsh Trail is absolutely one of our favourites in the Cole Harbour/Lawrencetown region of Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore. The trail is a former railway line, now converted to a level, fine gravel trail which is part of the rails to trails system. We biked the trail in the Fall and the leaves were bursting with color!

It’s a wonderful trail that starts off in the forest and then opens up onto beautiful vistas of Cow Bay on either side. It's equally enjoyed by cycling and walking enthusiasts.

If you are looking for an enjoyable bike ride or scenic walk with vistas of islands, marsh, rock-strewn waters and tree-lined coastline – this is one to try! Just make sure to bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, on a sunny day. It also would be a good idea to wear layers, because it can get pretty breezy out there, when you’re riding along the water.

9.25 km from parking lot at Bissett Rd. to Lawrencetown beach (19.5 km round trip). The Trail is very easy bike on. Crusher dust most of the way, and packed class gravel for a very short distance. Lots of benches to take a break at along the way, so bring a picnic and some snack to enjoy on your ride. Pit toilets approx 2 km from Bissett road parking lot, as well as at the Lawrencetown beach end of the trail.

The Salt Marsh Trail is a convenient family friend trail almost in the heart of Halifax. It's a great option for a day outdoors, especially if you follow it to Lawrencetown. The trail is dog, hiker, walker, maybe horse, and bike friendly. You can get some fantastic views of the ocean and surrounding countryside.