Open year round the Coxheath Hills Wilderness Trail offers fun and fitness and everyone is welcome. Whether hiking, snowshoeing or cross country skiing, the user begins making a steady ascent up the face of the mountain. Winding up and to the right one will encounter large eastern hemlock, striped maple and stands of beech, to name a few of the tree species found here. Upon coming to the first rest stop the user can catch their breath while being treated to a cascading waterfall just off the beaten path.

Upon reaching the apex, the trail begins to level off. Here the user has a panoramic view of the surrounding communities, including Cape Smokey and the Mira Hills, many miles away.

Striped maple leads the user down the path to Pittman’s Lodge, a cozy cabin with deck for relaxation and viewing the variety of wildlife frequenting the area. Overnight stays are popular and permission for stays may be obtained from the Association (Andy ph: 562-1725).

From Pittman’s Lodge there are options - returning on the same track or continuing along the northern loop. Heading west, the user will encounter several more bridges and rest stops, a shelter and section of old growth forest where large eastern hemlocks stand guard and yellow birch and sugar maples stretch for the sun’s attention.

Suitable for families, visitors and community groups, this trail provides fun and fitness. Don’t forget the annual Celtic Colours “Hike the Hills” event featuring traditional Cape Breton fiddle music and, of course, bagpipes.