Canada’s 2025 wildfire season is officially the second-worst on record, with over 7.3 million hectares burned – more than 75% above the five-year average. Experts say this is part of a “new reality” for our climate, as hotter, drier summers fuel more frequent and intense fires across the country.
In Atlantic Canada, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and New Brunswick are all under high wildfire risk, with multiple active blazes and strict outdoor restrictions in place.
Nova Scotia’s “Stay Out of the Woods” Forest Ban
On August 5, 2025, Nova Scotia implemented a province-wide ban on most outdoor activities in forested areas to reduce the risk of wildfires. The restrictions are expected to remain in place until at least October 15 or until conditions improve.
What’s Banned:
- Hiking, biking, camping, and fishing in forested areas
- Travel on Crown land and private forested land
- Use of trail systems, including popular hiking routes
What’s Still Allowed:
- Visiting established campgrounds
- Being on non-forested, open land areas
Violators can face fines up to $25,000. The province says the move is necessary given the extreme fire danger, but it has sparked frustration among residents and tourism operators, who say the rules need more clarity.
Current Wildfire Hotspots in Atlantic Canada
- Newfoundland and Labrador: Multiple active wildfires, including one near Paddy’s Pond in the St. John’s area that has closed parts of the Trans-Canada Highway. Evacuations have been ordered in communities such as Small Point-Adam’s Cove and Kingston.
- New Brunswick: Extreme wildfire risk in several regions, with evacuation alerts issued north of Moncton.
- Nova Scotia: While major fires have been contained, the province remains under extreme fire risk, leading to the ongoing forest travel ban.
Why This Matters
- Travel & Tourism Impact: Popular outdoor destinations like Cape Breton Highlands trails, Kejimkujik National Park forest trails, and provincial park hiking routes are closed.
- Community Safety: Evacuation alerts remain active in parts of NL and NB.
- Climate Change Wake-Up Call: Scientists say longer, drier summers will make restrictions like this more common in the future.
What You Can Do
- Check the Nova Scotia Fire Restrictions Map before planning any outdoor activities.
- Follow local emergency alerts for evacuation notices in NL and NB.
- Support affected communities by booking local accommodations, restaurants, and attractions that remain open.
Where You Can Still Explore in Nova Scotia (Despite the Forest Ban)
Even though forested trails are closed, there are still plenty of amazing places to visit:
✅ Coastal Beaches – Inverness Beach, Lawrencetown Beach, Melmerby Beach
✅ Historic Sites – Fortress of Louisbourg, Halifax Citadel, Grand-Pré National Historic Site
✅ Lighthouses – Peggy’s Cove, Cape Forchu, Point Prim
✅ Boardwalks & Waterfronts – Halifax Waterfront, Sydney Boardwalk, Digby Marina
✅ Open Parks & Fields – Dartmouth Common, Victoria Park (Truro’s open areas)
✅ Museums & Art Galleries – Art Gallery of Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Miners Museum, Maritime Museum of the Atlantic
✅ Scenic Drives – Cabot Trail (from the road only), Lighthouse Route, Evangeline Trail
✅ Local Dining & Breweries – Still fully open across the province
References
Nova Scotia Wildfire Map: Track Live Fires, Smoke, & Lightning | Map of Fire
East Coast provinces crack down on wildfire prevention | Watch
Largest wildfire continues to gain ground in eastern Newfoundland
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