3 Great Hikes to Explore this Waterfall Season

Chasing waterfalls is one of those activities that everyone loves and if you’re looking for some great, challenging hikes then here’s what you need to know! These three challenging waterfalls provide a variety of experiences from a full-day 18-kilometre hike to a shorter hike for advanced hikers.

1. Humes River Falls

Humes River Falls is a breathtaking fall that drops 60 feet straight down. You can feel the water spray before making it all the way down. It’s an 11-kilometre return hike through various types of forest such as old-growth trees. There are lots of markers in the trees on the left of the road and the narrow woodland trail really begins here. The trail passes by an old rock wall and rock foundations, then it ascends a small hill. As of September 2020, the trail was completed all the way to the fall with signage provided by the Wagmatcook First Nation. The route goes down one small valley, goes back uphill, and finally makes it to the falls on the Second Branch Humes River.

2. Gairloch Mountain Falls

This beautiful waterfall is nestled in the heart of the Cape Breton Highlands. Tucked away between rolling hills and jagged cliffs, this waterfall plunges 15 metres into a deep, invigorating pool. The trail may not be long but it does become quite challenging when you start to descend to the river. Be sure of your hiking ability before you make the descent. The ropes will help you on your journey to the falls where you will find a little slice of paradise.

3. Egypt Falls

Last on our list is arguably Nova Scotia’s most beautiful waterfall. Egypt Falls is a multi level cascading waterfall that is the perfect place to get your waterfall fix! A new trail through MacFarlane’s Brook Trail has been established and features stairs in some tricky spots. The trail is still challenging and the return hike back to your car is all uphill. Take you’re time when trekking to this beautiful waterfall.

Happy waterfall chasing!