Derek is a long time resident of Guysborough County. He will be sharing his experiences and photographs as he cycles, hikes and paddles throughout this large and lesser known part of the province.
On one occasion I went over my boots late in the day while crossing a bog only to have my pants freeze solid on the ride home.
The tracks ended after half a kilometer or so, but an easily discernible footpath continued on and eventually brought me to the edge of the ocean.
Once on the opposite side of the island I reluctantly returned to the little causeway. Most of it had vanished in that short time.
The smooth surface yields a sensation much like gliding. Without any bumps or interference from the road surface it just seems as if there is less friction involved making the whole affair more pleasurable - I seemed to be going faster with less effort.
It's possible to hike a variety of distances without backtracking. Interconnecting trails allow hikers to make loops to suit their time and/or energy levels.
There are undulating hills on all sections but they are not steep or more than a few hundred meters long in most cases. The route is littered with views of Chedabucto Bay and the Atlantic Ocean.
I was lucky. My visit occurred at low tide, walking on the hard-packed sand was better than any manicured trail. I enjoyed being at sea level with waves creeping right up to my feet.