Hike #1 - Admiral Lake Loop (Part 1)

Located just 30 minutes outside of Halifax, Admiral Lake Loop is a stunning trail with options for both leisurely walks/bike rides as well as some intense hiking!

This was the first time Jake and I did this hike and it truly did not disappoint. We parked in the parking lot (as seen on the map as the “Admiral Lake Trail Head”) and began walking on a well-kept, wide, gravel trail that is accessible for bikes, strollers, wheelchairs, etc. After walking on this for about 5-10 minutes we came to a sign giving us the option to veer right toward the more difficult wilderness hike we were hoping for (NOTE: you can simply continue on the well-groomed gravel path for a more casual easy walk).

Jake and I walked the wilderness hike from the beginning to “The Cave” and came back the same way. This took us approximately 3 hours (1.5 hours there, 1.5 hours back).

Note: If you complete the entire hike (from "Trail Head" to "Trail Head") when you get to the end of the “loop” you will be pretty tired by then and unfortunately have to walk another 2km back to your car where you parked at the beginning (can see in the map above the loop does not lead you back to the beginning).

We were happy with our decision to hike halfway to The Cave and come back as by the end we were pretty tired, feeling a little bit weak and didn't want to roll our ankles on the many rocks and tree roots (see photo below for walking terrain). We plan to start at the other end next visit and walk to The Cave and back to complete the entire loop.

The wilderness hike is marked with yellow metal markers to ensure you don’t stray off the path.

Along the hike, there were a few beautiful places to stop:

Skull Rock:

This is the stunning view seen below. To get to Skull Rock follow the Admiral Trail until you get to the sign giving you the option to go left toward Skull Rock (see photo below). From here it's a short climb to get to the stunning view Skull Rock offers. After enjoying the view and taking a break, climb back down and continue on the Admiral Lake Loop (turn left).

Rolling Stone:

This is the next stop on your hike along the trail where we enjoyed our lunch. Walk across the rock way and continue on the loop.

Harbour Lookoff:

Harbour Lookoff is a short 2-minute veer off the Admiral Lake Loop (there will be a sign pointing right to go see the view). This lookoff is less elevated than Skull Rock, but also incredibly beautiful. Be careful though, this lookoff doesn't have railings as Skull Rock does!

The Cave:

The Cave was our final destination for this time around the Loop. It was the perfect place to climb up on the rock and have a rest before heading back.

Admiral Lake Loop Fast Facts:

• Time: 3-4 hours (give yourself 5 for pictures and breaks)

• Maximum Elevation = 100m

• Location: 30 minutes from Halifax (Musquodoboit)

• Would recommend going to Skull Rock for a fantastic view (there is a sign that indicates where Skull Rock is while you’re on the hike)

• Follow yellow markers on the trees to stay on track

• Directions: Drive down number 7 Hwy until the yellow flashing sign. Turn right and drive for a few minutes until you pass the Tim Hortons on your right. Turn left at your next road. Drive down for a few short minutes (passing a school/field on your right). Turn Right on Park Road. Immediately on your left is the parking lot!