We’ve always had a wild side.
Let’s make sure it stays that way.
Lots of cities have parks. Halifax has something much more special. The wild.
More than ever, we all need nature in our lives and communities. Fortunately, Halifax still has a wild side – and wild areas worth protecting. One of these is 153-hectares (379-acres) of natural, rugged wilderness at Williams Lake, ready for everyone to enjoy, only a short bus ride or drive from the heart of our city.
Today, the Shaw Wilderness Park is a reality, ready for you to experience. An ecological treasure, the park is a haven for more than 40 species of breeding birds, other wildlife and a sanctuary in the city for hiking, swimming and connecting to nature.
The Nature Conservancy of Canada, the Halifax Regional Municipality and The Shaw Group came together to make sure this natural landscape keeps connecting us, grounding us, and making our world a better place to live. Especially as Halifax grows and evolves.
With the land of the Shaw Wilderness Park protected, the work of stewardship continues. You can donate or volunteer to support Halifax wilderness for generations to come.
*Donations are eligible for a tax receipt and may be pledged over time. Gifts may be made by cash, credit card, cheque, gift of stock, or other planned giving options.
The park is owned and managed by Halifax Regional Municipality with NCC collaboration.
The trails shown on the map are an estimation of location and should not be used for navigational purposes.
Thank you for your Support
Explore the list of the generous donors and volunteers who made the Shaw Wilderness Park a reality.
“Our conservation mission has never been timelier. Nature is a lifeline to for so many people as we cope with the fallout of a global pandemic. The Landmark Campaign has delivered conservation results, just when Canadians need it the most! I want to thank our donors and our volunteers. Your unprecedented response has made a difference in the lives of so many. Together we are committed to do more to make sure the nature that means so much to us today will be there for generations to come.’
Catherine Grenier, president and chief executive officer, Nature Conservancy of Canada
THE WILD DIFFERENCE
While the Shaw Wilderness Park includes some new elements to make sure lots of people can enjoy the park (like a parking lot at 2379 Purcell’s Cove Road), much of the land will remain in its beautiful, natural state.
That means things like natural trails, diverse ecosystems, and native species to explore. This isn't a park filled with groomed trails, cultivated plants, or tame wildlife. It's home to over 40 species of breeding birds, and protects the rare habitat known as jack pine and broom-crowberry barrens, as well as two lakes, several wetlands, and mature forest.
This is the wild, right in our backyard.
Thanks to your help, the Shaw Wilderness Park is open to behold.
Follow our wild journey
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