Backlands 360 walks
on May 3, 2014

Walk 1: Piggy's Mountain



Piggys Mt		Google Map
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Description

We will follow an informally maintained trail up "Piggy's Mountain which lies in the Backlands not far from York Redoubt. Piggy's Mountain is not really a mountain, but a large granitic rock outcrop and the highest ground in the area. We will spend about 30 minutes walking up, 30 or so minutes on top and 30 minutes coming back, with discussion along the way.


At the Top (Geoffrey Grantham)
Walk leaders include a biologist (David Patriquin), a geologist (Marcos Zentilli) and a landscape artist (Geoffrey Grantham). This area was burned in the Spryfield Fire of 2009, but it is coming back quickly. From the top of Piggy's Mountain, we will have a panoramic view of the Backlands, which gives a good sense of the area as a wilderness.

Piggy's Mountain is an ecologically special and sensitive area, with Jack Pine, Broom Crowberry and some rare species such as Golden Heather. So we'll ask the group to stick together, and try to leave no trace of having been there!

Directions

I consider Piggy Mountain to be the focal point of the Backlands, a 'power spot' of sorts with a special or spiritual feeling. These qualities combined with the amazing views of the surrounding area leaves one with the impression of having been revitalized. Piggy Mountain is a place of positive transformation - a place to recharge one's batteries. - Geoffrey Grantham
Meet at York Redoubt parking lot, 300 Ferguson Cove Rd, Halifax
at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday May 3rd.
Google Map at: https://goo.gl/maps/1gNJr

Metro Transit Route 15: Schedule

Walk departs at 1:30 p.m. Walk wraps up at 3:00 p.m.

Accessibility:

An informally maintained walking trail with some ups and downs over bouldery terrain, and through some wettish ground; mostly moderate slopes, a few points may require a helping hand, and on top, there are ledges to stay away from. Not recommended for children under 6 unless they can be carried, and all children under 16 should be accompanied by a parent. Participants will be required to sign a standard waiver.

Granite is exposed at Piggy Mountain. The granite magma formed at great depth ca. 380 million years ago... read more

After the walk

We are inviting all participants to meet at the Purcells Cove Social Club, 505 Purcell's Cove Road for a wrap-up discussion and social event. Refreshments will be available. Google Map at https://goo.gl/maps/JrGfu