Nelson's Dockyard and walks/hikes...

Hoping to go to Nelson's Dockyard possibly on bus (after recommendation from a previous post on this forum), have been looking at things to do around Nelson's Dockyard and have found some hikes (also mentioned on the forum) that we might be interested in - wondered if anyone else had done these and how long they take? - Although I have managed to find a bit of information on them cannot find any information on how long they would take!

We are interested doing the 'Lookout Trail' up to Shirley heights, or 'Middle Ground Trail', or 'Carpenter's Rock Trail' or 'Jones Valley Trail' - all start (or can start - I think some are circular walks) around the Nelson dockyard area - we are a fairly fit couple in our early 30s. - We are going in a few weeks time so hoping that we will be able we will be able to catch bus to ND, mooch round, do a walk/hike and then bus back to St. Johns. - Is this do-able or will in be too hot in early March to do much walking/hiking?

If end up getting Taxi there and back - how much should I expect to pay? Or if we get the bus there and then want to get a taxi back - will it be easy to get a cab from Nelson's Dockyard?

Many thanks

CaribbeanVirgin

See my report from today about hiking the Middle Ground Trail. You must be very fit, well-shod, and carrying water. Beautiful, but challenging.

For Nelson's Dockyard, take #17 bus. It runs every few minutes, no need for a taxi, either way. From the ship, walk to Market street (marked), then turn right. Always bear right, past the strange-looking president's head, and soon you will see the bus terminal - unmistakable. Get #17 for the return trip at Dockyards entrance area, $3 USD per couple, each way. It comes very often. Be aware it's not an air conditioned comfy bus. It can be crowded. But it's safe - nobody is going to hit you on the head and steal your purse.

To: CaribbeanVirgin

Would you mind sharing how this worked out for you?

Did you get to hike up to Shirley Heights? Does the trail head actually begin @ Nelson's Dockyard Nat'l Park or is the access to it close to this location?

Any and all tips/suggestions/insight you could provide would be deeply appreciated for we are looking at doing the same thing on our own while in this port, instead of an excursion, when we cruise early September.

Thanks a bunch in advance!!

To: CaribbeanVirgin

Would you mind sharing how this worked out for you?

Did you get to hike up to Shirley Heights? Does the trail head actually begin @ Nelson's Dockyard Nat'l Park or is the access to it close to this location?

Any and all tips/suggestions/insight you could provide would be deeply appreciated for we are looking at doing the same thing on our own while in this port, instead of an excursion, when we cruise early September.

Thanks a bunch in advance!!