Beechville Lakeside Timberlea Rails to Trails

Nice trail. Was a little crowded and some parts narrow so thouse guys driving the big ATV’s watch out for them. Other then that expect some dog poop. Nice bench spots to rest by lakes and to take a break.

Another beautiful section on Rails to Trails, the first 5 km from Lakeside Park Dr toward Timberlea had a lot of traffic and one major road crossing. But after that it’s a great ride and you could go all the way to the Bike and Bean in Timberlea or further.

Actually we call it the BLT Trail, which is easier to say! We have been cycling here for about 6 years now. It is gorgeous. The trail is on the site of an abandoned railway line leading west out of Halifax towards the South Shore.
This trail also leads into the city now, to the new Chain of Lakes Trail, so you can get to the BLT from a Halifax recreational trail. At the other end of the BLT you can connect to the St. Margaret’s Bay Rails to Trails and ride out to Tantallon and beyond to Boutliers Point and Ingramport. We have gone both ways. They are essentially one trail, but they go by different names in different parts. I guess they were built at different times, or run by different associations.
To get there from Clayton Park, we drive through Bayers Lake and go out the other side passing by Rona and the Canadiana restaurant. Here you turn right onto highway 3. Then you drive a little bit, then turn right on Lakeside Park drive. Look for the Coca Cola plant on your left. Park your car in the lot and you are at the trail head for the BLT. Here you can get on your bike or begin your walk. There is parking for about 20 cars.
There used to be ATVs on the trail, but I think they discontinued them. I see people walking and people riding their bikes. People walk their dogs there too.
I know of one beaver dam, one waterfall, and once I saw some deer at the far end of the trail. There is a big lake in the middle with benches to sit on, (called Cranberry Lake) and often people and/​or dogs go for a swim. The whole trail is about 13 kms long, from the Coke plant to the St. Margaret’s Bay Trail.
We bring bikes, helmets and a snack in the panier. It is fun to be outside in the fresh air. A really nice spot to spend a few hours.