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Best trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Best trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

4.4(16,272 reviews)

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Canada
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#4 of 49 national parks

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Cape Breton Highlands National Park is defined by Atlantic Ocean views and deep canyons carved by rivers flowing through the forests. A portion of the Cabot Trail, a world-famous scenic highway, exists in the park along with old-growth forests, Acadian, Boreal, and Taiga habitats, and a unique and rugged landscape.

Top trails

  1. #1 - Skyline Trail (Loop)
    4.6(2793)
    •Moderate
    •5.9 mi
    •Est. 2.5–3 hr
    This is the iconic Skyline Trail, which offers many opportunities to enjoy the gorgeous views. It is recommended to arrive early, or to expect long wait times on the trails later in the day. Since this is a very heavily trafficked trail, the lack of solitude is something that some folks may not enjoy, but this is ultimately worth the views that are on this trail. The loop may not be a great option for those not interested in hiking, so many people just stick to the out-and-back version of the...
  2. #2 - Middle Head Trail
    4.7(2536)
    •Moderate
    •3.2 mi
    •Est. 1.5–2 hr
    Note that one section of the Keltic Lodge trail is closed for work. This is an interpretive loop that follows along a narrow peninsula and offers great coastal scenery. There are a number of scenic lookouts and areas to explore. The trail is mostly level with some rocky sections. The trail is well-marked and receives lots of foot traffic. Some parts of the trail have loose rocks so watching your footing is recommended. There are many wildflowers along the way, including bunchberries,...
  3. #3 - Skyline Trail
    4.7(1500)
    •Moderate
    •4.1 mi
    •Est. 1.5–2 hr
    This out-and-back viewpoint trail is quite easy and very well maintained, offering some beautiful views along the way. Avoid peak hours as the trail closes to prevent overcrowding. The trail follows easy and level terrain along boardwalk, stairs, and proper trails, to take you to a beautiful view of the ocean at the end. There are even outhouses along way. Along this trail, you will likely have a few opportunities to view some of Canada's iconic wildlife - Moose. There are numerous...
  4. #4 - Acadian Trail
    4.7(1140)
    •Moderate
    •5.9 mi
    •Est. 3–3.5 hr
    Acadian Trail is one of the more popular trails on the western side of the Cabot Trail. The western half of the loop takes you up through Acadian Forest with plenty of overlooks over the sea, while the eastern half takes you down a valley with a stream and plenty of cascades. There are two trailheads by the National Park Information Centre. It has been recommended by many to complete this trail in the counterclockwise direction. The initial part of the counterclockwise trail is a steep...
  5. #5 - Jack Pine and Coastal Trail
    4.7(471)
    •Easy
    •1.1 mi
    •Est. 0.5–1 hr
    This is an awesome trail and is fairly easy, with some potential for wildlife viewing (if you get lucky). The loop has some of the best views of the ocean and landscape in Cape Breton. Be prepared for a rocky shoreline hike with good footwear. The trail is well-marked for the most part, but there are some sections reported to be hard to follow. Overall, this is a stunning, sparsely-visited trail along the coast. The route is well-maintained and clear. There are also plenty of options to...
  6. #6 - Blueberry Mountain
    4.7(548)
    •Hard
    •4.2 mi
    •Est. 3–3.5 hr
    This trail has a steady, gradual incline all the way to the top. The path up the old Cabot Trail is mostly secluded and ends with spectacular views of Cape Breton and has much less foot traffic compared to Skyline. Many wildflowers are along the way, including wild blueberries, raspberries, and bunchberries. Keep an eye out for eagles as they frequent this area. Bears are also known to frequent this area due to the abundance of blueberries, so be cautious and carry bear spray at all times....
  7. #7 - MacIntosh Brook Trail
    4.6(471)
    •Easy
    •1.1 mi
    •Est. 0.5–1 hr
    This is a nice and easy route to a waterfall along a babbling brook through a lush wooded forest. This is a great spot to have a picnic at the entrance as there is a covered patio area for a large group. The waterfall has the greatest flow in the spring, and the trees begin to bloom in late May and early June. There are lots of roots on the path so it isn't stroller-friendly.
  8. #8 - Jack Pine Loop
    4.7(393)
    •Easy
    •1.3 mi
    •Est. 0.5–1 hr
    This scenic trail overlooks the coastline and winds through a post-fire jack pine forest. There are interpretive panels that tell the history of this area, beginning with a fire in 1921, a budworm infestation and the vegetation that survives in this harsh coastal environment. The path has plenty of roots and rocks, so wearing hiking boots is recommended.
  9. #9 - Corney Brook Trail
    4.7(403)
    •Easy
    •4.1 mi
    •Est. 1.5–2 hr
    This trail runs parallel to Corney Brook through a forest to a small waterfall. There is an abundance of wildlife in the area including snowshoe hares and moose. The trail is wide enough for two people to walk beside each other and going along the valley between the mountains is gorgeous. There is some minor change in elevation but for the most part the path is gentle and easy.
  10. #10 - Broad Cove Mountain
    4.7(412)
    •Moderate
    •1.5 mi
    •Est. 1–1.5 hr
    This short trail has a steady incline but is equipped with stairs at the steep sections. It is great for a short hike or for those looking to hit a few spots in one day. It can be paired with Mary Ann Falls if you’re driving the Cabot Trail. Once you get to the top, you are rewarded with spectacular views of Middle Head, Cape Smokey, Ingonish, and Broad Cove. There is a lack of shade closer to the top of the trail, so it is essential to bring proper sun protection and lots of water. After...
Showing results 1–10 of 45
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Visitor info

Passes & fees
Fee required
Accessibility

Cape Breton Highlands National Park charges a fee to enter.

Get details from the park
Overview

Parks Canada offers free admission and access to programs for support persons traveling with a visitor who has a disability and depends on the support person to travel and experience a Parks Canada destination.

All of the park's visitor centres are fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible washrooms. An audio tour is available on CD for purchase at the Le Nique, the bookstore in the Chéticamp Visitor Centre.

All viewpoints on the Cabot Trail are wide, paved, and wheelchair accessible. A ramp at the Lakie's Head viewpoint provides access to the viewing platform and exhibit panels. At each of the three viewpoints on MacKenzie Mountain, wheelchair accessible viewing decks are available.

Additional information about accessibility at Cape Breton Highlands National Park can be found on their website: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ns/cbreton/visit/acces.

Facilities

All of the park's visitor centres are fully wheelchair accessible, with accessible parking and washrooms. An audio tour is available on CD for purchase at the Le Nique, the bookstore in the Chéticamp Visitor Centre.

Accessible features are available at all picnic areas, but the Ingonish Beach and Chéticamp day-use areas have the most accessible washrooms. Ingonish Beach also is equipped with a beach mat path to the sandy shore and a beach wheelchair available for reservation.

Camping

Broad Cove Campground has 2 accessible tent sites (both with 15 amp hook-ups), 2 accessible RV sites (both with 3-way hook-ups), and 1 accessible oTENTik (#128). The campground also has an accessible washroom and shower.

Chéticamp Campground has 2 accessible tent sites (both with electrical hook-ups) and 1 accessible 3-way hook-up, both near an accessible washroom and shower building, and 1 accessible oTENTik (#O76). Chéticamp also has a wheelchair accessible kitchen shelter.

Ingonish Beach Campground has an accessible washroom and shower, but no designated accessible campsites.

The park recommends reserving accessible campsites ahead of time on their website: https://reservation.pc.gc.ca/.

Service animals

All service dogs must have an Alberta Service Dog Identification Card to ensure access to public places.

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Guides

in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Top Picks in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

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Frequently asked questions

Where is the best place to hike in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Cape Breton Highlands National Park is Skyline Trail (Loop), which has a 4.6 star rating from 2,793 reviews. This trail is 5.9 mi long with an elevation gain of 820 ft.

What is the longest trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park is Cape Breton Highlands: Cheticamp to Ingonish. This trail is estimated to be 26.2 mi long.

How many trails are in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

There are 45 trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. These trails have an average 4.4-star rating from 16,272 AllTrails community reviews.

Which trail has the most elevation gain in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

If you're looking for elevation gain, Cape Breton Highlands National Park has you covered. Cabot Trail boasts the most elevation gain with 17,769 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Cape Breton Highlands: Cheticamp to Ingonish, which will get you 3,067 ft of elevation gain.

Are there camping trails available in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 12 camping trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the most popular is Acadian Trail with an average 4.7 star rating from 1,140 community reviews.

Are there running trails available in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 36 running trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the most popular is Skyline Trail (Loop) with an average 4.6 star rating from 2,793 community reviews.

Are there biking trails available in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

According to AllTrails.com, there are 4 biking trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park and the most popular is Salmon Pools Trail with an average 4.4 star rating from 273 community reviews.

What are the best summer hikes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

Some popular summer hiking trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park are Skyline Trail (Loop), Middle Head Trail, Franey Trail, Skyline Trail, and Acadian Trail.

What are the best fall hikes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

Some popular fall hiking trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park are Skyline Trail (Loop), Franey Trail, Middle Head Trail, Skyline Trail, and Acadian Trail.

What are the best winter hikes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

Some popular winter hiking trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park are Middle Head Trail, Skyline Trail, Clyburn Valley Trail, Blueberry Mountain, and Freshwater Lake Loop.

What are the best spring hikes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

Some popular spring hiking trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park are Middle Head Trail, Skyline Trail, Skyline Trail (Loop), Franey Trail, and Acadian Trail.

Are there any trails with scenic mountain peak views in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

Yes, there are 2 trails with scenic mountain peak views in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, including Mica Hill and Cape Breton Highlands: Cheticamp to Ingonish.

Are there any trails with waterfalls in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

Yes, there are 3 trails with waterfalls in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, including MacIntosh Brook Trail, Aspy Trail, and Mary Ann Falls.

Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

Yes, there are 5 trails with scenic viewpoints in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, including Franey Trail Lookout, Mica Hill, Clyburn Valley Trail, Cap-Rouge's Old Road, and Cape Breton Highlands: Cheticamp to Ingonish.

Are there any trails with beaches in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

Yes, there are 10 trails with beaches in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, including Corney Brook Trail, Le Buttereau, Le Chemin du Buttereau, Freshwater Lake Loop, and Freshwater Lake and Ingonish Beach.

Are there any trails with lakes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

Yes, there are 11 trails with lakes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, including Franey Trail Lookout, Mica Hill, Warren Lake Trail, Benjie's Lake, and Freshwater Lake Loop.

Are there any trails with rivers in Cape Breton Highlands National Park?

Yes, there are 6 trails with rivers in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, including Le Buttereau, Salmon Pools Trail, Lone Shieling Loop, Le Chemin du Buttereau, and Aspy Trail.