The Purcells Cove backlands are a beautiful urban wilderness that overlook Halifax’s Northwest Arm.  This area is especially important for conservation due to its proximity and accessibility to the urban core of Halifax. The area has been enjoyed for generations by local residents and visitors. It is an oasis of calm in the heart of the city. But it is that accessibility and proximity to the city that makes properties in this area at risk from development and encroachment.

The Nature Trust protects five neighbouring properties at the heart of the Backlands, together encompassing 111 acres (45 hectares). This land features uniquely diverse geographic features and habitats including scattered rugged granite coastal headlands (normally found in more remote areas along Nova Scotia’s Atlantic coast), undeveloped freshwater shorelines contained within an undisturbed watershed, developing hardwood forests, bogs and granite barrens.  In addition, these lands are home to a significant area of uncommon Jack Pine forest, rare plant life, and two wetland complexes almost entirely contained within the protected area’s boundaries.

The Purcells Cove backlands are well-known by local residents as a popular spot for hiking and biking (although we ask that you visit Nature Trust lands only on foot). With their close proximity to Halifax’s urban centre, they can be reached by public transit, biking and walking.