Into the Tobeatic
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October. Late spring often brings several heavy rainstorms, with the potential for thunderstorms in the summer months. Its low relief Wilderness Recreation Safety and Preparedness Keep It Wild Into the Tobeatic and barren vegetation make the Tobeatic region prone to strong Tobeatic Wilderness Area offers a place to journey into undevel- Tobeatic Wilderness Area is truly a wilderness destination. Users must You can help protect Tobeatic Wilderness Area by adopting a Leave No A Guide for Planning Wilderness winds, which generally develop from the southwest. Winter temper- oped wild lands, to experience natural sites and sounds of quiet atures vary from -20ºC to +5ºC from November through April. accept responsibility for their own health and safety, and arrive pre- Trace ethic and using low-impact techniques when travelling and camp- streams, ancient forests, and open barrens, and to enjoy the soli- Sydney pared for wilderness conditions. In this remote and relatively isolated ing. Wilderness is fragile and can be easily spoiled by the use and activ- in Travel in Tobeatic Wilderness Area Snow cover is common in winter, and the inland location of the tude of being away from it all. The wilderness area is managed to region rescue of a lost or injured person may be difficult and dangerous. ities of those who love it most. To retain the high quality of our wilder- wilderness area makes it more likely to have heavier snowfalls than maintain this wildness and, therefore, has little recreation infra- Proper trip planning is essential. Take account of seasonal conditions ness, we must all accept responsibility for minimizing our impact. The coastal areas. Through the winter months many lakes and river still- structure. Wilderness recreation such as tenting, hiking, canoeing, when considering modes of travel, drinking water sources, and supplies. following Leave No Trace principles outline a responsible approach to This guide gives basic information for planning a wilderness trip in waters freeze, with “ice out” generally occurring in early April. and wildlife viewing are some of the many activities enjoyed by adopt when visiting a wilderness area. Tobeatic Wilderness Area. It describes a range of activities and fea- travelers to the Tobeatic. Sportfishing, hunting, and trapping activi- When travelling into the Tobeatic tures helpful advice on wilderness trip planning, safety, and ethics. While everyone has a favourite time to explore the Tobeatic Plan ahead and prepare—Proper planning is the best way to minimize ties are also carried out in some parts of the wilderness area. Plan your route carefully—leave a written trip plan with someone at Please remember, it is up to you to fully prepare before you venture region, early spring and autumn are popular seasons. At this time your impact, while ensuring you have a safe and enjoyable wilderness trip. home outlining your destination, your travel route, and when you into Tobeatic Wilderness Area. Before you go, be sure to consult river water levels are higher for wilderness canoeing, there are ODD KEITH Sportfishing, Hunting, and Trapping T expect to return. appropriate maps and guidebooks, or local guides and outfitters. fewer biting insects, and daytime temperatures are more moder- Minimize campfire impacts—Campfires can cause lasting effects. The region’s geologic history, particularly glaciation events, has ate. At any time of year you must be prepared for seasonal Nova Scotia and parts of Tobeatic Wilderness Area have a long Honestly assess your skills and equipment—know your limits and Use a stove for cooking. Exercise care if you decide to build a fire also helped create many varied and diverse ecosystems. These extremes. Start by understanding what to expect, and be sure to Cultural Sites heritage of hunting, trapping, and sportfishing. These activities are Hiking those of your group. and collect firewood. check the most recent local weather forecast before departure. ecosystems include barrens, semi-barrens, coniferous and mixed Two old ranger cabins, located at Buckshot Lake and Sand Beach still enjoyed today. Relatively undisturbed wildlife habitat and low Pictou Tobeatic Wilderness Area Hiking in Tobeatic Wilderness Area is best suited for experienced Carry and know how to use wilderness first aid, rescue, and safety Travel and camp on durable surfaces—Be mindful, for even small forests, bogs, and fens. Many ecosystems remain undisturbed, with For extended tripping, consider carrying a weather radio or know Lake on the Shelburne River, are evidence of the area’s long histo- hunting and angling pressures in Tobeatic Wilderness Area pro- off-trail hikers with strong navigation skills, seeking strenuous, equipment. Protected under the Wilderness Areas Protection Act, Tobeatic physical impacts may leave a lasting impression on our wild places. most native species and natural processes intact. Remnant pockets the signs to recognize approaching weather. ry of wilderness management. While these structures are of his- vide many unique opportunities. The Tobeatic region is home to multiple-day wilderness trips. While there are no developed Wilderness Area is an important natural area in Nova Scotia and is Dress appropriately, and be prepared for all possible weather of the Acadian forest are present in old-growth hemlock stands at torical interest to many travelers, they have deteriorated well many wildlife species that are fished, hunted, or trapped. These hiking trails in Tobeatic Wilderness Area, hiking opportunities Leave what you find—Allow others who follow you to enjoy the largest wild region in the Maritimes. It spans more that 104 000 conditions. ro Sporting Lake and North Bingay Lake, old-growth mixed forest at Unique Areas below safety standards and are not suitable for occupancy. include brook trout, white-tailed deer, bobcat, and beaver, among may be found in the wilderness area by exploring old forestry wilderness in a natural state by leaving rocks, plants, and other natural hectares (257,000 acres) in southwestern Nova Scotia, including parts Ensure that you are self-sufficient and prepared to spend the night Tru Dish Lake, and old-growth white pine forest at Big Pine Lake. others. Moose was once a highly sought game species. It is now roads, cart tracks, and footpaths. Most of the routes are long objects as you find them. of Annapolis, Digby, Yarmouth, Shelburne, and Queens counties. Within Tobeatic Wilderness Area lie many unique and outstanding Located on the east side of Pebbleloggitch Lake is Mason’s cabin, in case of an emergency. protected as an endangered species. It is an offence to hunt and unmarked. None were designed with hikers in mind, so there sites. Some of these have been recognized as nationally or provin- one of Kejimkujik’s 46 backcountry sites. This well-maintained Tobeatic Wilderness Area reflects an important part of Nova moose anywhere in mainland Nova Scotia. If you are lost or injured, you are on your own—use your skills to Respect wildlife—Be aware that your presence affects wildlife. Amherst Due to its size and variety, Tobeatic Wilderness Area protects cially significant. are few scenic look-offs and few tenting areas. Be prepared for a Scotia’s rich cultural heritage. In the Tobeatic, this heritage includes cabin has a wood stove and several bunks. Reservations are determine if you can treat the injury or attempt to return safely. If Please exercise caution. Halifax/Dartmouth rugged hiking experience. dsor numerous habitats, species, and natural processes. It also helps S ancient Mi’kmaw sites, land use by British and Acadian settlers, required by calling the Park at 682-2772. H you cannot return safely, stay put. This will make it easier for res- N Sporting Lake Nature Reserve protects outstanding old-growth Win maintain an important part of our wilderness heritage and pro- P Be considerate of other visitors—Most travellers to wilderness areas and traditions of recreational use. Cultural resources are evident cuers to find you based on your written trip plan. eastern hemlock and white pine forest on one large and two K N vides outstanding wilderness recreation opportunities. The wilder- Kentville I Wildlife Viewing are hoping to spend time in a wilderness setting, for solitude and today in aboriginal travel routes, remains of early European settle- Access and Vehicle Use J ness area contains rugged wild lands and unique glacial land smaller islands. Due to its sensitivity to human disturbance, camp- KU natural experience. ment, and landmarks from a prosperous guiding era. M Wilderness First Aid ing, campfires, woodcutting, littering, and hunting are not permit- I As a remote and undeveloped region, Tobeatic Wilderness Area forms. Its headwater lakes and streams and large wetlands are Tobeatic Wilderness Area is remote, and even vehicle travel to reach In the case of injury, you may be many hours or even days from med- ted on these islands. offers good opportunities to see wildlife in a natural setting. Dispose of waste properly—Garbage and human waste left in wild largely undisturbed. Pockets of rich old-growth forests and expans- Travel in the wilderness area immediately connects present-day the wilderness area may be difficult. Boundary signs are posted at E, KEJ Your sense of discovery may lead you to explore the moss- ical assistance. In a wilderness setting, minor injuries or ailments can Lunenburg es of fire barrens provide unique and significant wildlife habitat. users to a rich part of Nova Scotia’s outdoor heritage. Traditions of main access points, with the boundary otherwise unmarked on the areas is unsightly, and may pose a risk to human health or wildlife. To The Shelburne Canadian covered floor of a hemlock forest or the fragile plants dotting a quickly become serious or life threatening. This may jeopardize the safe- ground. Many access points require travel on loose surface roads. avoid attracting animals to your site and to minimize the risk to your wilderness travel, canoeing, tenting, hiking, hunting, trapping, and TER HOP E ty of the group.