In the Nova Scotia Highlands, Cape Breton National Park is a natural wonderland waiting to be explored. With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unique experiences, it's no wonder that this park is a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Established in 1936, the national park spans 950 square kilometers, safeguarding approximately 20% of northern Cape Breton. It stands as one of Nova Scotia's largest protected wilderness areas and is part of a network of national parks dedicated to preserving exceptional Canadian landscapes.
Dos:
Hike the Skyline Trail: One of the must-do activities in Cape Breton National Park is hiking the infamous Skyline Trail. This 4.8-mile loop offers spectacular views of the Cabot Trail and the ocean. With little elevation gain and some boardwalk stairs, it's accessible to hikers of various skill levels. Skyline Trail is one of about two dozen hikes in Cape Breton Highlands.
Drive the Cabot Trail: The Cabot Trail is a 185-mile scenic drive that takes you through a mesmerizing landscape where the ocean meets the mountains. Each turn reveals a more breathtaking view than the last, making it a must-do for anyone visiting Cape Breton.
Explore the Franey Trail: Located on the east side of the Cabot Trail, the Franey Trail offers a fantastic viewpoint overlooking Ingonish Harbour and Middle Head. This 4.8-mile hike is a great way to immerse yourself in the park's natural beauty.
Hike the Acadian Trail: This 5.9-mile loop takes you through the Acadian Forest and offers plenty of overlooks over the sea. The eastern half of the trail leads you through a valley with a stream and cascades, providing diverse scenery throughout your hike.
Visit Cheitcamp: Take a leisurely stroll around Cheitcamp and enjoy a cup of coffee at Margertes. It's a perfect way to relax and immerse yourself in the local culture. There is also a few art galleries along the way. The town is approximately 10 minutes from the park entrance.
Experience Live Music at Doryman Tavern: After a day of exploring, unwind at the Doryman Tavern, Cape Breton's local spot for live music every night. Don't forget to try a Blue Lobster Nova Scotian soda.
Camp at Dispersed Camping Spots: If you're on a camping trip, don't miss the opportunity to camp at one of the beautiful dispersed camping spots overlooking the ocean. These free campsites are a rare find, so be sure to respect the landowner's generosity. Find it here: 46.55906, -61.03693
Explore an Old Gypsum Mine: Hike the Gypsum Mine Trail, a 1.6-mile out-and-back trail leading to a lake where you can take a refreshing dip in the middle of your hike. Commencing its operations in the early 1900s, the mine was primarily focused on extracting gypsum, a soft sulfate mineral, until the late 1930s. Ownership of the site belonged to National Gypsum, which later generously donated it to the Cheticamp community. Subsequently, the mine became submerged, transforming into a favored swimming destination. To this day, the mine and its equipment remain submerged beneath the lake's surface.
Puffin Boat Tours: Don't miss the chance to see the adorable Atlantic puffins on Donelda's Puffin Boat Tours the only Bird Island boat tour on the Cabot Trail. Witness these parrots of the sea in their nesting grounds.
Whale Watching Tours: The waters off the Cabot Trail are teeming with marine life, making it a prime location for whale watching. Captain Zodiac Whale Tours guarantees a whale sighting, offering an unforgettable marine adventure.
Inverness Beach Boardwalk: Take a break from hiking and relax at Inverness Beach Boardwalk. Enjoy the stunning beach and its serene surroundings.
Pay the Park Entrance Fee: The park has an entrance fee of $8.50 CAD per person. Your fee directly contributes to the up-keep of the park!
Don'ts:
Forget to Fill Up on Gas: Before entering Cape Breton National Park, make sure your vehicle is fueled up. The park is truly remote, with limited services, so it's best to be prepared.
Wear Loose Items: The cliffs in Cape Breton National Park can be incredibly windy. Avoid wearing anything that could blow off into the sea, as it's highly unlikely you'll be able to retrieve it. It is a sad day when you lose your favorite baseball cap.
Forget to buy Nova Scotian Goodies: If you are traveling from the states there are a few goodies you can not get anywhere else so make sure to stock up on them. Our favorite was the Blue Lobster Spiked Sodas. These sodas are made from blueberries found in the area!
By following these dos and don'ts, you'll be well-prepared for an incredible adventure in Cape Breton National Park. From epic hikes to scenic drives and unforgettable wildlife encounters, this park offers a wide range of experiences for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. So, pack your bags and get ready to explore the beauty of this Canadian gem.
Onto the next sky!
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