Brookfield Wetlands And Nature Trail In Nova Scotia
The Brookfield Wetlands and Nature Trail is an awesome spot for a hike and a leg stretch, located just off exit 12 of the Nova Scotia 102 highway near Brookfield.
The Ducks Unlimited and Lafarge restoration project spans 20 acres and offers two trail loops (1 km and 0.75 km) connected by a bridge. This reservation is teeming with wildlife (largely dependent on the season). It’s a great spot to walk about, take pictures, and check out the wonderful wetlands.
Difficulty: Easy
Length: 1.75 km total
Suggested Duration:Â 15 minutes to 1 hour
Signage:Â maps and informative posts throughout
Facilities: Parking, garbage cans and benches
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Key Features Of The Brookfield Wetlands
- Passes through wetlands
- Opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife sightings
- Dog-Friendly (on-leash)
- Well-maintained and groomed crushed gravel trails
Facilities And Services
- Parking lot
- Garbage cans
Before You Start Hiking The Brookfield Wetlands
Before you head out for your own experience hiking through the Brookfield Wetlands, there are a few things we think you should know.
Let’s start with the basic rules.
This is a restored nature trail, so it’s important to keep the trail wild, as the entrance suggests. Of course, practicing leave no trace principles is important in any hike. There are a few extra points to be aware of when walking through a restoration to help keep things natural.
These rules include:
- No motorized vehicles.
- No littering.
- No hunting.
- No horseback riding (we don’t see this one too often!)
- Keep bicycles on the trails
- Do not feed the wildlife
It’s also asked that visitors keep their dogs on leash to avoid disruption to the wild animals and that visitors also clean up after their dogs.
This information is all presented on the large sign at the trail’s entrance in the parking lot.
The parking lot is easy to find. The trail is just off exit 12 of Highway 102. Head toward Brookfield, and the parking lot will be on the right hand side.
We suggest bringing binoculars if you have a pair to see wildlife from a distance. Bring a camera to take pictures, too!
It’s important to wear good footwear as well. This is not so much for the terrain (the hike is flat and easy). However, there is, unfortunately, a lot of animal droppings on the trail (whether from the wildlife or dog owners not cleaning up after their pets). Flipflops may be a bad choice!
Hopefully, that doesn’t turn you off. The trail may be short, but it’s full of life and is a great stop for anyone!
Our Experience Hiking The Brookfield Wetlands
We never set out to hike through the Brookfield Wetlands and came across it after travelling in Stewiacke.
We had heard of a few hikes in Stewiacke but were left unimpressed with their length (though the waterfalls were nice). On our way back to the highway, we drove past the wetlands, saw a trailhead, and decided to check it out.
We’re glad we did! Sure, it didn’t satiate our desire for a long, heart-pumping endurance hike, but it certainly offered plenty to see.
The first thing we noticed about the trail terrains was how wide and flat the trail was. This pretty well stayed the same throughout the reservation.
The second thing we noticed was how much animal droppings were on the ground. “Hiking” quickly became like walking through a minefield. We estimated this was largely due to the wildlife within the reserve and partially from dog owners not picking up after their pets.
This went on for a while, making things a bit unpleasant. Eventually, we got to a part of the trail to look at the scenery around us rather than where our next step would land.
Though the trail is relatively short, you could spend a great deal of time looking at and for wildlife. There are also plenty of signs throughout the path with plenty of information, including pictures and names of some of the wildlife you may see or hear.
There are actually two trails through the Brookfield Wetlands. A bridge connects the two trails. Each trail encircles its own body of water. Meadow Brook feeds the bodies of water within the wetlands.
So we spent a lot of time reading, listening and looking at the wildlife around us. As we came around the bend of the larger loop, we came across a family of ducks crossing the path into the water. It’s always nice to see non-predatory animal crossings whilst hiking.
In terms of hiking, the trail was easy and flat. We’d say this walking trail is suitable for all ages and fitness levels.
There are also nice benches to sit and relax to take in the beauty of the wetlands. The real draw of this walking trail is the chance to be surrounded by wildlife and so close to the highway.
So, if you’re ever in need of a leg stretch and you’re passing by exit 12 on the 102, be sure to check this spot out! Take your time, and we’re sure you’ll see something different than in your ordinary day-to-day routine!
Checklists And Recommended Gear
Even though the Brookfield Wetlands Trail is a short hike, we’d still recommend bringing some supplies with you.
- Water Bottle
- Hiking Shoes – Women’s // Men’s
- Camera/Phone to take photos
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Insect Repellent
- Cascade Hiking Poles
- Atlantick Tick Removal Tool Kit
