Quarry Lake Fall
Nova Scotia • Terence Bay Wilderness Area • 8 m
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
7.1 km
Trail Type
Loop
Elevation Gain
109 m
About Quarry Lake Fall
Quarry Lake Fall is a small waterfall located on/near the shore of a quarry lake roughly 13 miles from Halifax, Nova Scotia (coordinates: 44.4861, -63.7181). The fall appears in a quarry/lake setting with rocky shorelines and steep exposed rock; water flow and appearance are likely seasonal and can vary with recent rainfall or snowmelt. Public information about formal trail infrastructure is limited, so visitors should plan for a short, possibly informal approach along uneven, rocky ground.
The Setting
Quarry Lake Fall sits at 20 metres within Terence Bay Wilderness Area, in the coastal lowlands of Nova Scotia. The falls drop 8 metres.
Height: 25 feet
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 7.1-km loop trail gains 109 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
Approach is likely a short walk from a nearby road or small parking area to the water's edge. Expect an informal track or desire line over mixed rock, gravel, and woodland. The final approach may require negotiating uneven, steep or exposed rock near the shoreline or cliff edges. Trails may be muddy and slippery after rain. There may be no marked or maintained boardwalks or railings.
What to Expect
The falls drop a gentle 8 metres.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Quarry Lake Fall?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Quarry Lake Fall?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Spring for usually stronger flows and greener surroundings; early fall for foliage. Summer provides warmer weather but flow may be reduced. Winter can offer dramatic frozen scenery but brings icy, hazardous conditions, only for well-prepared visitors.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Terence Bay Wilderness Area for current conditions.
Safety Information
Primary hazards: slippery rock, unstable edges and loose rock, seasonal high flows, sudden drop-offs into deep or cold water, and potential lack of cell coverage. There may be no lifeguards or emergency infrastructure. Do not attempt cliff jumping. Check weather and water conditions before visiting and tell someone your plans. If visiting in winter, expect ice and bring traction aids.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 27.7 km away
1.9 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 57 years of record
0.72 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Halifax hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The feature is at approximately 44.4861, -63.7181, about 13.0 miles from downtown Halifax, 41.2 miles from Windsor, and 64.2 miles from Liverpool. Access typically involves driving on local roads to a nearby parking/staging area and walking a short distance to the shoreline/cliff area. Exact access points, trailheads, and parking locations are not consistently documented online; consult a current local map, municipal resources, or recent visitor reports before you go. Be aware some quarry lakes and surrounding land can be privately owned or have restricted access.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking may be limited or informal (roadside or a small unmarked pullout). There may not be a formal parking lot or signage. Confirm local parking rules and avoid blocking driveways or gates.
Elevation
20 metres above sea level
Coordinates
44.486069° N, -63.718143° W
Land Management
Managed by Nova Scotia Environment and Climate Change
Visitor Tips & Gear
• Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear with good traction. • Watch for slippery rock and unstable edges; stay back from cliff edges. • There may be no facilities (toilets, trash cans); pack out what you bring in. • Check land ownership and local signage, some quarry lakes have restricted access. • Avoid swimming unless there are clear signs indicating it’s safe; submerged hazards and cold temperatures are common. • In winter expect ice and slick surfaces; use traction devices and exercise extra caution.
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With 7.1 km and 109 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Bayside Camp and Retreat Centre
10.8 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Closest major center is Halifax (~13 miles). Other regional towns include Windsor (~41.2 miles) and Liverpool (~64.2 miles). Check local park and trail resources around Halifax for additional lakes, coastal parks, and viewpoints.
Wildlife
Expect typical Nova Scotia wildlife near freshwater and forest edges: songbirds, waterfowl, small mammals (squirrels, rabbits), deer, and possibly fox or beaver. Take care with food and garbage to avoid attracting wildlife.
Cities near Quarry Lake Fall
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