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Canoe Annapolis County

Route 18 – Nictaux River

Record #: MCA0384
Last Modified: 11 Apr 2019
Last Full Update: 08 Feb 2018

Location

Located In Springfield (Anna. Co.)
Where To Find Us
Access: Portage 1 (Shannon Lake)
Route 10
Springfield (Anna. Co.)
Other Site Locations Access: Scotchman's Lip (Nictaux River)
Squirreltown Rd, (Off Route 10)
Albany Cross
View Google Map

Access: NS Power Canal
Route 10
Nictaux
View Google Map

*Road to Access is sometimes gated by NS Power
Access: Nictaux River Dam
Off Route 10
View Google Map
Areas Served Annapolis County

Description & Services

Information This route, except for a short paddle through Shannon Lake, follows the Nictaux River entirely, as it winds its way down the north face of the South Mountain, on its way to the Annapolis Valley floor.  
 
Winding through undeveloped woodland, it offers a genuine feeling of remoteness, and will test the paddler's moving water skills.  
 
There are three sets of rapids on the route, and all can be bypassed via portages.  
 
The river is part of the Nova Scotia Power Nictaux Development, and water levels will fluctuate with the demands of power generation. It is recommended that this route be taken only during moderate to high water levels. Low water levels do not allow enough water volumes for easy passage down the route.  
 
This route can be done in whole (2 days) or in parts depending on what access area you chose. 
 
Please note that the South Shore Annapolis Valley Trail is a multi-use trail. There is a waterfall located at the eastern area of the dam. Refer to Michael Haynes’ Hiking Trails of Mainland Nova Scotia for a more detailed description.  
 
Due to water fluctuations, many prefer to paddle the canal and carry into the head pond of the Nictaux Dam for a paddle exploration and return in one day. 
 
Click HERE for launch location(s), map and route details.
Trail or Water Route Map