McNabs and Lawlor Islands Provincial Park is comprised of McNabs and Lawlor Islands located at the entrance of Halifax Harbour in Nova Scoita. Accessible only by boat, McNabs is a popular spot for hikers, boaters, history buffs, nature lovers and folks wanting some quiet natural beauty close to the city center. Lawlor Island is a nature reserve and not open to the public.

McNabs Island

McNabs Island is the approximately 400 ha in size and boasts 18 km of hiking trails, historic sites, such as Fort McNab National Historic Site, an abandoned Victorian Garden, and stunning views of Halifax Harbour and downtown Halifax. It is an oasis for wildlife and is home to over 200 species of birds. The Park was established in 2002. Most of McNabs Island is owned by the province under the responsibility of the Nova Scotia Department of Natural Resources. Park Canada manages Fort McNab National Historic Site. About one hectare located in the north end of the island is privately owned.

Lawlor Island

Lawlor Island is 55 ha in size and located opposite MacCormicks Beach in Eastern Passage. The island is mainly forested and supports a colony of Great Blue Heron and many Osprey. Deer are often seen grazing in the fields on the island.
Lawlor Island was farmed for nearly 100 years until 1870 when it was acquired for use as a quarantine station and hospital.

For more information, download our brochure http://mcnabsisland.ca/images/McNabs-brochure-2017.pdf or purchase our guidebook Discover McNabs Island http://mcnabsisland.ca/gifts Further information about McNabs and Lawlor Islands Provincial Park can be found