MEC Pride Logo

Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail checklist

Get ready for one of the most impressive multi-day hiking trails in Nova Scotia. The Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail is a 53km loop you can do clockwise or counter-clockwise with beaches and wild views along the way. Make sure to do your research, check the forecast, and be prepared for emergencies. The Cape Chignecto trail packing checklist below is a good place to start.

See Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail packing list pdf

Sleeping and shelter

Shared items for your hiking group:

  • Tent with full-coverage rain fly
  • Tent poles and [stakes](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/tents-and-shelters/tent-pegs-and-stakes/c/1443?filters[custom_fields.ideal for][0]=backpacking) (may want to bring snow/sand stakes for beach campsites)
  • Footprint

Camp kitchen

Shared items for your hiking group:

Hiking gear

Shared items for your hiking group:

  • Hiking permit in a sealed plastic bag
  • Tide chart in a sealed plastic bag
  • Cape Chignecto route guide
  • Topographic Cape Chignecto map
  • Compass
  • GPS (optional)
  • Large sealed plastic bag to store guide, map, compass and GPS

Safety gear

Shared items for your hiking group:

Clothing

When it comes to materials, leave the cotton behind. Make sure your hiking shorts, long johns, pants, t-shirts, underwear and sports bra are made of quick-drying materials that wick moisture.

Personal items

  • Toilet paper – bagged and lots of it
  • Hand sanitizer
  • [Quick-drying towel or face cloth](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/bath-and-sanitation-products/towels/c/811?filters[custom_fields.ideal for][0]=camping and hiking)
  • [Toothbrush](/en/products/gear/camping-and-hiking-gear/bath-and-sanitation-products/body,-dental-hygiene-and-shower-kits/c/806?filters[brand][0]=aurelle carry clean)
  • Toothpaste (small amount)
  • Power bank or spare batteries for electronic devices
  • Phone or emergency communication device
  • Earplugs
  • Feminine hygiene supplies
  • Notebook and pencil

Optional items: