Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site
Explore Kejimkujik: Canoe Routes, Forest Trails & Mi’kmaw Heritage
Kejimkujik (colloquially known as Keji) is unique as both a National Park and a National Historic Site, encompassing 404 km² of protected Acadian forest, tranquil lakes, and ancient Mi’kmaw cultural sites. The park is renowned for its extensive network of waterways, and historic canoe routes.
As Nova Scotia’s only Dark-Sky Preserve, Kejimkujik provides exceptional stargazing opportunities, free from light pollution, making it a haven for astronomy enthusiasts.
These trips are proudly supported by Hike Nova Scotia as your trusted Parkbus Ambassadors. This experience is made possible thanks to generous support from TD and VIA Rail.
Tickets:
- Regular: $30
- Student: $30
- Child (12 and under): $30
- Senior (60+): $30
Pickup Location
VIA Rail Halifax Station, 1161 Hollis St Halifax, NS
We depart directly from the VIA Rail Canada station in Halifax (1161 Hollis Street), making it easy to catch the bus whether you’re arriving by train or starting your day downtown.
Departure
7:00 AM
estimated return
7:00 PM
Kejimkujik Visitor Centre
Activities:
- Hike to Mill Falls via the Mill Falls Trail (gentle 2 km return)
- Explore the Beech Grove Trail (moderate 2.2 km loop from Mill Falls)
- Enjoy a picnic at Mill Falls
- Try geocaching on the Ukme'k Trail
What to Bring: Lunch and water
Facilities: Washrooms at the Visitor Centre and Mill Falls picnic shelter
Note: The Ukme'k Trail extends from the Visitor Centre to Jakes Landing and Merrymakedge (approx. 12 km one way). Be mindful of your hiking ability to ensure a timely return for pickup.
Estimated arrival
10:45 AM
Departure
5:00 PM
Jake’s Landing
Activities:
- Hike or bike the Mersey River Trail via the Slapfoot Trail (approx. 8 km return)
- Explore Jeremy’s Bay via the Slapfoot Trail (7.4 km return)
- Head to the beach via the Merrymakedge Trail (5.4 km return)
- Rent canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or bicycles from Whynot Adventure
- Join guided activities (check daily schedule)
What to Bring: Lunch and water
Facilities: Washrooms and picnic tables available
Note: Reserve rentals (canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, bikes) in advance to ensure availability. Whynot Adventures loves it when folks reserve in advance: www.whynotadventure.ca
Estimated arrival
10:55 AM
Departure
4:55 PM
Merrymakedge
Activities:
- Relax with a book or swim at Merrymakedge Beach on Kejimkujik Lake
- Grab lunch or a treat at the Lakeview Café & Eatery
- Discover Mi’kmaw culture at the Mi'kmaw Encampment Site
- Watch Todd Labrador, Master Mi’kmaw craftsman, build a traditional birch bark canoe
- Visit the Mi’kmaw Cultural Landscape Monument
- Join guided activities (check daily schedule)
What to Bring: Swimming gear, water, and lunch (or dine at the café)
Facilities:
- Washrooms and picnic tables at the beach
- Playground, washrooms, and picnic shelter near P1 (northwestern end)
Note: Beaches are unsupervised. Swim responsibly and know your limits.
Estimated arrival
11:05 AM
Departure
4:45 PM
Hiking and Biking Trails
With over 15 hiking trails, Keji caters to all skill levels:
- Ukme’k Trail (6.3 km one-way): A scenic route along the Mersey River, ideal for both hikers and bikers.
- Mersey River Trail (3.5 km one-way): An easy path offering picturesque river views.
Paddling Adventures
Explore historic Mi’kmaw canoe routes on Kejimkujik Lake and the Mersey River. Rentals and guided tours are available at Jake’s Landing, offering opportunities to spot wildlife such as turtles, beavers, and loons.
Stargazing in a Dark-Sky Preserve
As Nova Scotia's only Dark-Sky Preserve, Keji offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities. Join guided night programs to learn about constellations and Mi’kmaw sky lore, or borrow a Dark Sky Kit for a self-guided experience.
Mi’kmaw Cultural Experiences
This park is home to over 500 petroglyphs etched into slate along the lake shores. The petroglyphs can only be accessed through Parks Canada tours. The area is restricted if you are not accompanied by staff, it is inaccessible.
Guided tours are available to book in advance with Parks Canada, they are not available on demand, if you do not book ahead you do not have a spot on the guided tour.
Folks can sign up for the programming with Parks Canada here, they fill up quickly so plan in advance! https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ns/kejimkujik/activ/decouverte-tours/activ-experience-guided
These tours provide insights into these ancient carvings and the stories they tell. Visitors can also experience traditional encampments and participate in cultural programs.
