Hike NS Enews: February 2021
In this month’s enews, learn about a new membership perk, government consultations, upcoming webinars, lots of events and more!
New Perk for Members: Old Black Forest Restaurant
If you're a paid Hike NS member, then you get some pretty sweet perks, such as discounts on Hike NS events and courses and discounts at various businesses. The newest addition is the Old Black Forest Restaurant in the Town of Lunenburg, where Hike NS (paid) members receive a 10% discount when they show their printed or electronic membership card.
Have Your Say: Government Consultations
New Parks & Protected Areas by Apr. 13
The NS government is inviting Nova Scotians to provide their input on 12 new proposed provincial parks and wilderness areas. The deadline for input is April 13. Learn more and have your say.

Forestry Management by Feb. 19
The NS government is accepting public feedback on the province's new Forestry Management Guide, outlining forestry practices allowed on Crown land. The deadline for input is February 19. Learn more and have your say.
February Webinars
Hike NS webinars are free for paid Hike NS members ($20 for nonmembers and associate members). Our February lineup:
Happy Hiker Feet How-to: February 11
Offered offered in partnership with Arthritis & Injury Care Bracing & Orthotics, learn from retired Pedorthist Freeman Churchill.
Intro to Hiking: February 18
For novice hikers or experienced hikers looking for a refresher.
Come Walk With Us: February 24
Learn about the Come Walk With Us epic journey across Canada.

Winter Guided Hikes
Hike NS and 15 host groups offer the Winter Guided Hike Series across NS. There are over 35 hikes led by local folks and participants qualify to win trail prizes. These free or low-cost hike or snowshoe events require pre-registration and will follow public health protocols. Thanks to our partners for organizing the hikes and The Trail Shop, Goose Lane Editions and the NS Department of Communities, Culture and Heritage. Learn more.
Where to Find Snowshoes Guide
Wondering where to find snowshoes? Check out our Where to Borrow, Rent or Buy Snowshoes guide online.

It includes over 65 listings, including more than 40 venues where you can borrow them for free. 
Earth Walk Kit Orders by Feb. 15
An Earth Walk Kit is a backpack full of props and tools to help adults run fun nature activities for kids from 5 to 12 years old as well as younger children. One kit has enough props for up to 14 kids at a time. Kits are $300 each and interested groups and organizations have until Feb. 15 to submit an order to Hike NS.

Upcoming Events
  • Hike NS Winter Guided Hike Series, hikes across NS: Jan.-Mar.
  • Take the Roof Off Winter Photo Challenge: Jan. - Mar.
  • Winter Walk Day for schools: Any day in February
  • Happy Hiker Feet How-to Webinar: Feb. 11
  • Intro to Hiking Webinar: Feb. 18
  • Winter Active Day: Feb. 20
  • Come Walk With US Webinar: Feb. 24
  • The Big Chill snowshoe marathon fundraiser, Middleton: Feb. 27
  • Provincial Volunteer Awards, nomination deadline: Mar. 1
  • Field Leader - Winter module (Field Leader - Hiking prerequisite): Mar. 6

Quick Hiking/Trail News Hits
These are some news hits from Twitter and Facebook:
  • First look: The Blue Mountain Birch Cove Wilderness Connector view
  • Paul goes snowshoeing with Hike Nova Scotia view
  • British amputees ready to take on the Cabot Trail view
  • Meet your neighbour: ‘Never stop exploring’ is Janice Rand’s motto view
  • Hiking in a winter wonderland with Hike NS view
  • If you had to pick one healthy habit for 2021, here's your best choice view
  • Draft Forest Management Guide Open for Public Consultation view
  • Hike Nova Scotia promotes the value of winter events view
  • A walk in the woods relieves pandemic angst, nature conservancy poll finds view
  • Nova Scotia government poised to add 20 sites to its list of parks and protected areas view
  • It's Amherst vs. Amherst vs. Amherst in unique challenge view
  • Go the distance with the Melanated Aces view