Restrooms
Not AvailableNo
Food & Drinks
Not AvailableNo
Parking
AvailableYes (small gravel lot behind Kent)
Nudity Policy
OPTIONALNudity is optional (remote wilderness lake)
The Good
- True wilderness escape: Susie’s Lake sits deep inside the Blue Mountain–Birch Cove Wilderness Area and genuinely feels untouched, quiet, and remote despite being close to Halifax.
- Rewarding lake views: The first full view of the lake after the climb is striking; dark water surrounded by forest, rock, and silence.
- Excellent for swimming: On warm days, the water is clean, refreshing, and surprisingly inviting after the hike in.
- Canoe-friendly lake: The calm surface makes it ideal for paddling if you’re willing to carry a canoe in.
- Quick access once you know the route: Although the terrain is rough, the lake itself isn’t far from the trailhead.
- Minimal human impact: No buildings, docks, or facilities; just forest, rock, and water.
- Peaceful atmosphere: Many visitors describe it as one of the quietest natural spaces near Halifax.
- Beautiful in all seasons: Especially popular in winter when foliage disappears and navigation becomes easier.
The Bad
- Unmarked trail: There are no official trail signs, blazes, or markers. Numerous side paths make navigation confusing.
- Not beginner-friendly: Constant elevation changes, rock scrambling, and uneven footing require hiking experience.
- Easy to get lost: Many hikers report confusion on the return route without GPS tracking.
- Rough terrain: Expect climbing over rocks, roots, mud, and steep sections.
- Limited parking: The small gravel lot fills quickly and must not interfere with store operations.
- No facilities whatsoever: No toilets, no bins, no benches; pack everything in and out.
The Naked Truth
Susie’s Lake is not officially clothing-optional area in Nova Scotia, but due to its remoteness and lack of foot traffic, most visitors do choose to swim nude, especially on quiet weekdays. The isolation of the lake makes this possible without drawing attention, though it is not openly practiced or advertised. You’re unlikely to encounter large groups, and most visitors are focused on hiking, swimming, or paddling rather than social interaction.
That said, this is still shared wilderness land. Discretion matters, and comfort levels vary depending on who else has made the hike that day. If solitude is your goal, arriving early or visiting on weekdays provides the calm, private atmosphere that makes this lake feel like a hidden backcountry retreat rather than a public recreation spot.
Insider Tip
Keep your GPS tracking on from the moment you leave the parking lot. Many hikers say reaching the lake is easier than finding the way back. Winter or early spring hikes are often clearer because vegetation is lower.
Who's Here
Experienced hikers, swimmers, paddlers, solo explorers, and locals who know the area well. Casual walkers and tourists are rare.
Beach Surface
Natural rock ledges, forest floor, and uneven shoreline. No sand. Entry into the water is rocky but manageable.
Access Difficulty
Difficult: Suitable only for hikers comfortable with bushwhacking, elevation change, and route-finding.
Photos
Our Visit
Discover the beauty and freedom of Susies Lake, a stunning nude beach destination.
Discover the beauty and freedom of Susies Lake, a stunning nude beach destination.
Map
Getting There
Susie’s Lake is located within the Blue Mountain–Birch Cove Wilderness Area, just outside Halifax, Nova Scotia.
By Car: Drive to Chain Lake Drive and locate the Kent Building Supplies store. At the far right side of the property is a small gravel parking lot. Park only in this designated area and keep clear of customer access zones.
From the parking lot, walk along the edge of the Kent back lot toward the woods. Follow the lumber garden fence line until you reach a distinct Irving fuel cylinder, which marks the informal trail entrance. From here, continue straight into the forest.
The trail winds through rocky terrain with multiple splits and offshoots. There are no signs. Keep GPS active at all junctions and track your route carefully. The hike involves steady ups and downs over rock and root systems before opening onto the lake viewpoint and shoreline.
By Public Transport: There is no public transportation access. A private vehicle is required to reach the trailhead.
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