Keppoch Society honoured for excellence

Hike Nova Scotia recently awarded an Antigonish non-profit organization its highest award.

At its annual Hiking Summit held recently in Antigonish, Hike Nova Scotia presented the Positive Action for the Keppoch Society with the Summit Award.

“The Summit Award is presented to an organization or individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and commitment to the growth and development of hiking in Nova Scotia,” explains Janet Barlow, Hike Nova Scotia's executive director. “Keppoch definitely deserves this recognition due to its impressive facilities and programming.”

The Positive Action for the Keppoch Society was formed in 2010 and oversees the Keppoch Mountain recreation facility, the site of a former ski hill. It features over 30 hiking trails and is an outdoor recreation hub for Northeastern Nova Scotia. It is a place for hiking, snowshoeing, mountain biking and a host of other outdoor activities.

Keppoch faced many challenges in bouncing back after extensive damage from Hurricane Fiona but bounce back it did. With the help of government funding, volunteers and a supportive community, it managed to clear the trails and repair damage.

The award was part of the annual Hiking Summit, a celebration of Nova Scotia's hiking culture. At this year's summit, 125 people gathered in Antigonish, including avid hikers, hiking clubs, trail groups, government representatives and others. They took in guided hikes, information sessions and socials. Many volunteers made the event a success.

Hike Nova Scotia co-hosted the Hiking Summit with Keppoch Mountain, the Town of Antigonish and the County of Antigonish.

The location of the 2025 Hiking Summit was revealed at the event. It will take place in Bridgewater next spring.