East Bay Hills (Nova Scotia) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids East Bay Hills |
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Highest point | |
Peak | Sgurra Bhreac |
Elevation | 222 m (728 ft) |
Prominence | 212 m (696 ft) |
Isolation | 14.92 km (9.27 mi) |
Parent peak | Blueberry Barren |
Dimensions | |
Length | 48 km (30 mi) NE -SW |
Width | 7.5 km (4.7 mi) NW - SE |
Naming | |
Etymology | from the East Bay of the Bras d'Or Lake they border along their northern edge |
Geography | |
Location | Cape Breton County, Nova Scotia, Canada |
Range coordinates | 45°49′50″N 60°36′35″W / 45.83056°N 60.60972°W |
Parent range | Cape Breton Highlands, Appalachian Mountains |
Topo map | NTS O11/F16 |
Geology | |
Age of rock | Precambrian |
Mountain type | Fault-block mountains |
Climbing | |
Access | road/hike |
The East Bay Hills are a range of ancient hills in Nova Scotia, Canada. They are found on Cape Breton Island, right next to the East Bay of the Bras d'Or Lake. These hills are part of the larger Appalachian Mountains chain.
The East Bay Hills are not very tall, reaching about 180 meters (590 feet) high. They form low ridges in an area that is mostly flat. Not many people live in these hills. The highest point is Sgurra Bhreac, which offers amazing views of the Mira area and the Atlantic Ocean.
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Water in the Hills
The tops of the East Bay Hills are quite flat, like a plateau. Water does not drain away easily from these flat areas. Most streams are found along the edges of the hills. They flow towards the northeast, which shows the direction that glaciers once moved. The hills also have several lakes and some scattered bogs, which are wet, spongy areas.
Plants and Trees
The East Bay Hills are a bit lower than other nearby hills. Because of this, you won't see as many tall, shade-loving trees. Instead, these hills are home to a mix of different trees. You can find Red Maple, White Birch, Yellow Birch, American Beech, Balsam Fir, and White Spruce growing here.
Animals Living Here
There are not many moose in the East Bay Hills. However, you can find deer on the side slopes, especially in winter. The hills are also a great place for eagles. Many eagle nests are built in the deep ravines along the streams.
Visiting the Hills
The East Bay Hills offer beautiful views, especially looking north over the Bras d'Or Lake. For example, if you drive on Highway 4 near Irish Cove and Middle Cape, the road climbs higher. From there, you can see the stunning scenery of the lake below.
Life and History
In some parts of the East Bay Hills, people still do a bit of small-scale farming. In the past, fishing in the Bras d'Or Lake and cutting down trees were important ways for people to make a living. Today, much of this area has become a popular spot for cottages. Tourism now plays a big role in the local economy.
Long ago, in the early 1900s, there were special mineral springs at Glengarry in Irish Cove. People believed these springs had healing powers. This brought many visitors, both from nearby and far away, to the area.