Kejimkujik National Park is located in southwestern Nova Scotia, Canada. It is known for its lakes, rivers, forests, wetlands, and the rich cultural heritage of the Mi’kmaq people. The park includes two separate areas: an inland forested region and Kejimkujik Seaside on the Atlantic coast. Visitors can explore natural landscapes, paddle canoes, hike trails, and learn about Indigenous history.
The inland park covers approximately 381 km² and contains forests, lakes, rivers, and wetlands. The area is important for protecting Atlantic forest ecosystems and preserving Mi’kmaw cultural history. The national park was established in 1974, while the coastal section received protected status in 1985.
Forests, Lakes, and Rivers
Kejimkujik features a varied combination of woodland and aquatic habitats. Its trees include conifers such as eastern hemlock as well as deciduous species. Wet areas occur along river valleys and around lakes, providing habitats for waterbirds, amphibians, and other wildlife. The combination of forests and waterways supports rich biodiversity.
Kejimkujik Lake is one of the park’s central natural attractions. Its shores, small islands, and surrounding forests are ideal for peaceful walks and water-based excursions. The Mersey River and connected waterways allow visitors to experience the landscape from the water while looking for birds, aquatic plants, and signs of beaver activity.
Mi’kmaq Cultural Heritage
Kejimkujik holds special significance for the Mi’kmaq, an Indigenous people of Atlantic Canada. People have lived and travelled through this landscape for thousands of years. Lakes, rivers, and overland trails connected different areas, while local natural resources provided food and materials for everyday life. Evidence of settlements, fishing, hunting, and traditional canoe travel remains throughout the region.
The park’s cultural landscape includes archaeological sites, historic places, and sacred areas. Its importance lies not only in individual sites but also in the enduring relationship between the Mi’kmaq and their land. Parks Canada works with Mi’kmaw representatives to protect this heritage and interpret the region’s history respectfully.
Kejimkujik Petroglyphs
Among the park’s most important historic features are petroglyphs–images carved into smooth rock surfaces along lake shores. Created by Mi’kmaw ancestors, they depict people, clothing, canoes, animals, ships, and other aspects of life across different historical periods. These images help researchers understand Indigenous culture, beliefs, and everyday activities.
More than 500 individual images have been recorded within the park and national historic site. Many have been affected by weather and human activity, so the area receives special protection. Visitors may see the petroglyphs only through authorized guided experiences. Touching the carvings, marking the rocks, or entering restricted areas independently is not permitted.
Canoeing and Water Adventures
Kejimkujik is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking. Lakes, rivers, and connecting waterways allow visitors to explore forested shores, small islands, and quiet coves. Many routes follow traditions of Mi’kmaw travel, as canoes were used for generations to move between communities, fish, and maintain connections across the region.
Routes vary in length and difficulty. Beginners can choose calmer stretches of the Mersey River, while longer trips explore Kejimkujik Lake and more remote waterways. Designated backcountry campsites are available for visitors travelling deeper into the park. Before launching, check the weather, route conditions, and required safety equipment. Motorized watercraft are prohibited except in specifically authorized circumstances.
Kejimkujik Seaside
The coastal section lies beside the Atlantic Ocean, about an hour’s drive from the inland park. The landscape changes from forest lakes to coastal shrubs, rocky areas, open terrain, and pale sandy beaches. Turquoise water and rugged ocean scenery make this section particularly appealing for hiking and photography.
Marked trails pass through coastal vegetation and lead toward the ocean, where visitors can observe how waves and wind shape the shoreline. The area is suitable for a day trip, although coastal conditions can change quickly. Pay attention to tides, wind, and trail conditions, and take care near the water.
Wildlife and Plant Life
Kejimkujik’s forests and wetlands support beavers, deer, small mammals, and many bird species. Fish and other aquatic organisms live in its lakes and rivers. Moist forests and old trees provide shelter for wildlife, while the coastal area supports distinct plant and animal communities adapted to a maritime climate.
Protecting natural habitats is especially important for species sensitive to changes in water levels and forest disturbance. Visitors should remain on marked trails, avoid feeding wildlife, and take all rubbish away. Observe animals from a distance without disturbing them or damaging vegetation.
Dark Skies and Stargazing
Kejimkujik is known not only for its forests and lakes but also for its dark night skies. The park is recognized as a dark-sky preserve, making it an excellent place to observe stars away from urban light pollution. On clear nights, visitors can see numerous stars and constellations and, under suitable conditions, the band of the Milky Way.
Stargazing combines well with camping and a quiet stay in nature. For a night walk, bring a suitable flashlight, warm clothing, and check the weather forecast in advance. Follow camping rules and avoid unnecessary lighting to preserve the darkness and respect other visitors.
Hiking Trails and Camping
The park offers routes for short walks and longer hikes. Trails pass through forests, follow lake shores and rivers, and lead to natural viewpoints. Some are suitable for families, while others allow visitors to explore the inland wilderness more deeply. Cycling routes provide another way to discover the woodland landscape.
Camping is available at designated sites, and remote campsites and other accommodation options serve visitors travelling farther into the park. The main camping season generally runs from May to October, although services depend on the time of year. Before travelling, check current conditions, reserve a site if necessary, and prepare equipment for the expected weather.
Best Time to Visit
Summer is ideal for canoeing, camping, cycling, and longer walks. Spring and autumn offer a quieter atmosphere, birdwatching opportunities, and pleasant forest trails. In autumn, the foliage turns bright shades of red, yellow, and orange. The park remains open in winter, although available services and trail conditions vary with the weather.
How to Get There
The inland section of Kejimkujik is about a two-hour drive from Halifax, and travelling by car is the most convenient option. Kejimkujik Seaside is separate, roughly an hour from the inland park, so visitors planning to see both areas should arrange their route in advance. The inland section can fill a full day or several days, while the coastal area can be explored on a separate outing.
Kejimkujik National Park combines forests, lakes, water routes, and the unique cultural heritage of the Mi’kmaq people. It is an appealing destination for peaceful outdoor recreation, paddling, hiking, wildlife observation, and stargazing. Caring for the environment and respecting Indigenous traditions help preserve this special place for future generations.
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