The Long Shore: Soley Cove to Old Wife Hike
This is an 11 km coastal hike for those with a moderate to high fitness level.
We travel across red sand beaches and beneath tall sandstone cliffs to reach the Old Wife Formation.
The route passes waterfalls and sea caves, ending at a significant geological site that displays the breakup of Pangea.
Hikers must be attentive to the pace and the tides.
Embark on a tide-timed coastal journey along the striking red sand and pebble beaches of Soley Cove, culminating at the Old Wife Formation, one of Nova Scotia’s most breathtaking coastal vistas. This 11 km-long adventure traverses towering aeolian sandstone cliffs, where wind, rain, and waves have sculpted breathtaking patterns over millennia. Along the way, discover hidden coastal waterfalls, flowerpots, and sea caves — each a testament to the raw power and artistry of nature.
The hike concludes at the Old Wife Formation, a landmark of profound geological significance within the Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Global Geopark. Here, you’ll witness one of the best exposures of a monumental event in Earth’s history: the breakup of the supercontinent Pangea, some 200 million years ago, marking the birth of the modern continents and the Atlantic Ocean.
Due to the length, tide-dependent timing, and varied terrain, this long-distance hike (11 km) requires a moderate to high fitness level, careful pacing, and attentiveness to tidal changes. Experience the thrill of observing the tide as it recedes, turns, and surges along the shore, adding both rhythm and drama to this immersive coastal adventure.
This tour is tidal-dependent. Final confirmation regarding start-time will be forwarded no later than 3 weeks prior to your tour.
Complimentary pick up is optional if clients are staying in Parrsboro.
Meeting point for clients travelling from Halifax or Truro: Cliffs of Fundy Geopark Welcome Centre, 3246 Highway 2, Economy, Nova Scotia
Drop off after conclusion of tour is either the original pick up or meeting point.
Please carry water (2 litres per person), a small snack and sunscreen in your daypack. Wearing a hat is recommended. Ensure your footwear is suitable for navigating beaches. Closed-toe and lace-up shoes are a must. We cover a variety of terrain ranging from fist-sized rocks, pebbles and sand with potentially muddy sections. Your guide will have trekking poles available if you choose to use them for added balance and easier navigation of the varied terrain.
Our tours are conducted in all weather. In case of rain, ponchos will be part of the guide’s kit. Tours are subject to cancellation only when thunderstorms are imminent.
Your guide always packs some high-energy snacks - please inform us about food sensitivities, dislikes or allergies.
Private professional guide;
Professional tide-dependent tour planning;
Low tide exploration of caves and cliffs;
Hiking poles for added balance;
High-energy snack;
The tour operator will touch base within 96 hours prior to your booking date to communicate weather conditions and confirm the start time.
Please tell us a little about yourself:
What is your walking experience, fitness level or mobility limitation? To ensure the best outcome for your bespoke tour, please also share any special objectives. (Interested in photography, rocks, geological history, folklore, flora and fauna?)
Email or text Anna with additional questions or special requests . This is your best option!
Our email <parrsboroshoretours@gmail.com>
Phone calls are always welcome. While we are conducting tours, you will reach our message system. We will return your call once we are back in the office. Our number 1-306-631-8539
Our cancellation policy is 72 hrs prior to tour start for day tours and 30 days for overnight tours.
Full payment is due upon booking. In the event of a cancellation more than 72 hrs (day tours) or 30 days (overnight tours) prior to tour start, Tide Rollers & Mudlarkers will refund the tour price less a 20% handling fee. For cancellations of less than 72 hrs or 30 days respectively, please note that no refund can be issued.
Should a tour have to be postponed by Tide Rollers & Mudlarkers due to unsafe weather conditions (thunderstorms, hurricanes), we will try and move your booking to an alternative date. Please plan your trip so that you can switch to a different date just in case. In the event that you are unable to switch dates, you will receive a refund of the tour price less a 20 % handling fee, or you can turn your booking into a non-refundable gift certificate for the full value of the tour (no expiration date).
