The best walks and hikes around Colchester, Subd. A

A small parking area at the end of Little Ville Drive gives direct access to the Horse Pasture Brook Falls route. Spaces are limited, so it’s worth arriving early on busier days. If the lot is full, there’s additional parking by the Wentworth Falls trailhead across Highway 4. From Little Ville Drive, the route continues into the forest towards Horse Pasture Brook and its series of waterfalls.

Horse Pasture Brook Falls is part of a series of cascades tucked into the forest along the brook, with water dropping over exposed rock between steep wooded banks. Several falls are scattered along this stretch, so it’s worth exploring the paths beside the water rather than expecting one single drop. Some viewpoints involve steep, muddy ground and exposed roots, so take care when leaving the main route to get closer.

Wentworth Falls is a small, three-tiered waterfall hidden in the scenic Wentworth Valley. The three tiers add up to about 15 metres of water dropping over rocks into a pool surrounded by lush Acadian hardwood forests. In the 1870s, railroad workers had blasted a tunnel directly through the mountain rock to divert Higgins Brook. This man-made cave still stands today at the top of the falls. If you are attempting to climb up to the tunnel, be aware it's a steep slippery walk, but it ends with a nice view and a look at what's left of the historic Intercolonial Railway.

The Wentworth Falls trail is a short trail that is mostly flat, easy-to-navigate and scenic. Since the hike is so short, it's pretty kid-friendly. The forest the trail passes through is a mix of evergreen trees and pine trees, and is shady in summer. In winter, with snow shoes, this is a great hike as well!

The Wentworth Falls trailhead is a no-thrills trailhead, just a couple of gravel pull offs on highway 4 just a 6-minute drive south of the town of Wentworth. There are no washrooms here, trash cans or water fountains, so come prepared. The hike is short, but still in a wilderness area.

Along Galloping Brook, the Mi’kmawey Debert Interpretive Trail pairs peaceful forest walking with a much deeper story. More than 11,000 years ago, this landscape was tundra, while communities later lived at the foot of the Cobequid Mountains for over a millennium. Today, wildflowers, tall trees and running water shape a gentle, reflective stretch of trail.

The Moose River is beautiful, winding through forested valleys and rocky terrain, flowing steadily toward the Minas Basin. Its clear waters pass over small rapids and gorges, including the East Branch Moose River Falls. Quiet and tucked away, the Moose River feels like a hidden slice of Nova Scotia, with the surrounding woods and rocky banks making it a perfect spot to explore and soak in the natural beauty.

East Branch Moose River Falls is a tall, graceful cascade dropping into a deep pool framed by forested cliffs. The water tumbles over rocky ledges, creating both spray and a steady roar that fills the gorge. Surrounded by mossy rocks and trees, the falls feel wild and secluded, and is a hidden gem just a short walk from the trailhead.