Note: McNabs Island Fall Foliage Tours are being offered by the Friends of McNabs Island Society, not Ambassatours Gray Line
Join the Friends of McNabs Island Society for their annual Fall Foliage Tours of McNabs Island Provincial Park. Explore the island's vibrant autumn scenery and choose from a variety of guided tours, including the Heritage, Nature, Adventure, Coastal Shoreline, or Family Tour. You can also opt for the Hangman’s Beach Tour, inspired by the characters and setting from Thomas Raddall’s book, Hangman’s Beach.
Take part in a special welcome to Mniku’j (McNabs Island) by representatives from the Mi’kmaw Native Friendship Centre and learn about the island's significance to the Mi’kmaw First Nations. Discover McNabs Island’s critical role during the world wars in protecting the Port of Halifax from Fort McNab National Historic Site, with military reenactments provided by Parks Canada and the Halifax Military Heritage Preservation Society. You'll also hear stories of Bill Lynch, the "midway king," the SS England’s 1866 quarantine, and the ongoing restoration of the island's Victorian Gardens.
Tours offered include two Heritage Tours, a Nature Tour, an Adventure Tour for hikers aged 16 and older, a new Coastal Shoreline Tour, the Hangman’s Beach/McNab Family Homestead Tour, and a Family Beach Discovery Tour for children 12 and under. Select your top three tour preferences on the order form, but please note that only one tour can be completed in a day.
Wear comfortable footwear and dress appropriately for the weather. For the Adventure Tour, waterproof boots are required. Be sure to bring lunch, drinking water, sunscreen, and bug spray. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash. Smoking, alcohol, and cannabis consumption are prohibited in the park.
Please note that some trails may be challenging due to storm damage. All participants should be able to walk 5-7 km, with the Adventure Tour covering 10-15 km.
When: October 20, 2024
Departure: Meet at Ambassatours, Cable Wharf (1751 Lower Water Street, Halifax) by 9:15 AM. The boat departs McNabs Island at 4:30 PM, returning to Halifax by 5:30 PM.
Cost: $40 (Non-members), $30 (Members), $20 (Children 16 and under), free for children 4 and under (with ticket). Tickets are available by clicking or tapping here. There are no refunds unless the event is cancelled due to park closure or severe weather.
For more information, contact: info@mcnabsisland.ca or visit mcnabsisland.ca/contact.
More about McNabs Island
Just off the coast of Halifax lies McNabs Island, an enchanting blend of history and natural beauty, ideal for a day trip. This island isn’t just a patch of green in Halifax Harbour; it’s a historical sanctuary where echoes of the past meet the tranquility of nature. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or looking for a peaceful getaway, McNabs Island is worth exploring.
Discovering the Past: McNabs Island’s Military History
Historical Significance
McNabs Island has served as a sentinel at the mouth of Halifax Harbour since the 19th century. Its strategic position led to its development as a fortification site, with Fort McNab emerging in 1889 as a principal defence facility. Today, Fort McNab is recognized as a National Historic Site, inviting visitors to wander through historic ruins that played pivotal roles during the World Wars and the Cold War. The island also hosts the Maugher Beach Lighthouse, established in 1828, standing as a testament to the region’s rich maritime heritage.
Embracing Nature: The Natural Landscape of McNabs Island
A Natural Haven
The island isn’t all about history. With over 22 kilometers of hiking trails, McNabs offers a vibrant tapestry of ecosystems, from coastal headlands and sandy shores to dense woodlands. These trails provide perfect routes for casual strolls or more vigorous hikes, and they’re great for wildlife spotting. From deer roaming the woods to seabirds overhead, and even seals along the coastline, the island is a biodiversity hotspot. It’s an ideal spot for anyone looking to switch off from city life and immerse themselves in nature.
Planning Your Visit: Accessing McNabs Island
How to Get There
Visiting McNabs Island requires a bit of planning as it's accessible only by boat. You can catch a ferry from either Cable Wharf on the Halifax waterfront or from Fisherman’s Cove in Eastern Passage. Several private operators provide reliable and scenic ferry services to and from the island. These services generally offer round trips, catering to individuals, families, or groups, and booking in advance is recommended, especially during the summer when the island is a popular escape.
McNabs Island offers a unique escape with its compelling mix of historical sites and natural beauty. It’s a place where you can delve into Nova Scotia’s wartime history one moment and relax on a secluded beach the next. Whether you're exploring its historic fortifications, enjoying a picnic with a view, or simply taking a leisurely hike through its varied landscapes, McNabs Island promises a refreshing and enriching experience. Don’t miss this charming piece of Halifax’s heritage on your next outing.
