To recap, the "MNBS" is a community gathering with no affiliation or figurehead organizers. Essentially it's just a group of people who want to get together to go climbing at places they have or have not been to before, and anyone is welcome to come along. Because this is not a 'guided tour' or an official event, all risks are assumed by the individuals themselves, as independent participants. That said, do no hesitate to come along. All skill levels are invited, newbies and first timers should look into this as a great opportunity to climb real rocks with advice from more experienced climbers, and peer support. Pads are usually plentiful, and spotters as well.
So we meet BEFORE 6PM at the Armdale Rotary, in the (what is the name of the church there?) parking lot, shown at the center of this image:
http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=d&hl=en&ge ... 7&t=h&z=18
At 6:00 sharp we leave for the proscribed destination. Duncan's cove is actually located at the same site as Chebucto Head, just off to the 'right' or... south east I guess. Directions to Chebucto Head from Zig's book follow:
To get there, take the Herring Cove exit from the Armdale (Roundabout). Follow Herring Cove Road through Spryfield, passing a number of traffic lights. Follow the road for nineteen kilometers, and you will see a small sign on your right instructing you to turn left for Chebucto Head. Follow Chebucto Head Road which is very narrow and bumpy for about 4km. At the end of the road is a lighthouse and a small parking area for the public.
A couple of things. First off, the road is actually in much better condition now than it was when this was written. Most of the GIGANTIC potholes have been patched, at least until the gate. Post gate shouldn't be an issue however, because we actually can't park in the parking area due to time constraints. Turns out the gate locks at 8:30 PM, so unless you want to leave early, stay out of the gated area. Not to mention the fact that there are shortcut paths to Duncan's Cove further down towards the secondary parking area (at the gate) anyway.
Here's a google maps guide to get to that spot:
http://maps.google.ca/maps?f=d&hl=en&ge ... 5&t=h&z=18
One last thing - this area is well known for being quite buggy. If you can't handle the bugs, don't come. If you can - bring some bug juice. They don't like bug juice and it's a real help for your concentration and overall quality of life. Aside from the being toxic and horrific for your health and the environment thing. But who really cares about the environment anyway? Damned hippies and their 'trees'.
- Steve
