12 Best Hikes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Cape Breton Highlands National Park Overview

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a picturesque park located on the Atlantic Ocean on northern Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada. The park is home to breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and stunning hiking trails. With its gorgeous coastal vistas, majestic mountains, and vibrant green forests, Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers an outdoor enthusiast the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature. The park was the first national park in the Atlantic provinces of Canada. The Cabot Trail, one of North America’s most scenic travelways, loops around northern Cape Breton and runs for nearly 300 km. Approximately one-third (106 km) of the Cabot Trail is located within the park’s boundaries. In this article, we will explore more of the best hikes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Trailhead Traveler’s Recommended Best Hikes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Skyline Trail 

A dramatic headland cliff overlooks the rugged coast from the end of this level trail. You can enjoy an eagle’s view of the Cabot Trail as it winds its way down the mountain – vehicles look like toys. Watch for whales in the Gulf of St. Lawrence from the viewing decks. Moose, bald eagles, bears and numerous other wild animals live in this habitat. Be cautious with children around the cliffs and give the moose a wide berth. The headland plants are very fragile and easily damaged by trampling, so stay on the boardwalk. It is best to hike the trail during the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is perfect for capturing beautiful photographs.

• 5.1 mile (8.2km) loop
• 950′ (290m) elevation gain
• Moderate

Franey Trail

You climb up and up and your reward is at the top! Large flat rocks give you a nice place to sit and enjoy the 360º views of the entire Clyburn Brook canyon and the Atlantic coastline from Cape Smokey to Ingonish Beach. Franey is one of the more breathtaking trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park; partly because of the climb and partly because of the spectacular views. Gaze back at the mountains, the sheer rocky face of Franey Mountain, or the river winding through the valley, 425 m below. Keep an eye out for wildlife – moose like this habitat too.

• 4.6 mile (7.4km) loop
• 1,100′ (335m) elevation gain
• Moderate

Middle Head Trail

The Middle Head Trail is a moderate hike that takes visitors along the coastline and through a forested area. The short trail offers amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean, cliffs, and wildlife. This is one of the best hiking trails for those who are looking for a short hikes and want to experience the beauty of the park’s coastline.

• 2.4 miles (3.8km) out and back
• 150′ (45m) elevation gain
• Easy

Blueberry Mountain Trail

The Blueberry Mountain Trail is unmarked but still one of the best hikes in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. This trail is a true gem for hikers and nature enthusiasts alike, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and a challenging yet rewarding trek through the rugged wilderness.

• 4.5 miles (7.3km) out and back
• 1,450’ (442m) elevation gain
• Strenuous

Acadian Trail

Climb 365 meters above the Chéticamp River for panoramic views of the Acadian coastline, the Chéticamp river valley and the park’s highland interior. Benches along the way let you rest periodically and enjoy the scenery. Watch how the forest changes as you climb steadily to the top and be on the look-out for black bear and moose.

• 5.2 mile (8.4km) loop
• 1,130′ (345m) elevation gain
• Moderate

Fishing Cove Trail

You are 355 meters (1,165 feet) above sea level! Hike from the top of the mountain about six kilometers down to a small ocean cove and grassy clearing – the only designated wilderness camp site in the park. This was once the site of a Scottish fishing community and these settlers traded with the French for supplies. Explore the beach, roam the hills or swim in fresh or saltwater. You must register at a park visitor center prior to camping.

• 7.5 miles (12km) out and back
• 1,165′ (355m) elevation gain
• Moderate

Aspy Trail

This trail meanders along the Aspy fault, through an Acadian and mixed forest. As nature reclaims land once used for farming and logging, a regenerated forest begins to blend in with the old growth. The magnificent red oak and the hoots of the barred owl or great horned owl will appeal to the true nature enthusiast. Recent work on this trail has made several stream crossings easier, but waterproof hiking boots are recommended.

• 6.0 miles (9.6km) out and back
• 1,280′ (390m) elevation gain
• Moderate

Jack Pine Trail 

This scenic trail overlooks the Atlantic ocean and winds through a post-fire jack pine stand – keep your eye out for pilot whales along the coastline. This pocket of jack pine is significant because it is separated from the rest of its range by 200 km. Interpretive panels tell the story of this area, beginning with a fire in 1921, a budworm infestation and the hardy vegetation that survives today in this harsh coastal environment. The is one of the more easy strolls in the park so if you want a longer hike, connect up with the Coastal Trail.

• 1.4 (2.3km) mile loop
• 180′ (55m) elevation gain
• Easy

Coastal Trail

Breathe in the salty sea air and enjoy an escape to the coast. This scenic trail hugs the ocean shoreline and takes you along granite headlands, coastal meadows and cobblestone beaches. This trail has some closed sections. It is currently open from the Neil’s Harbour end as far as Neil’s Harbour Beach and on the Black Brook end as far as the Jack Pine Trail connection. 

• 1.0 (1.6km) mile out and back
• 150′ (45m) elevation gain
• Easy

Meat Cove Mountain Trail 

Meat Cove Mountain Trail is one of the steepest hikes on the Island and offers breathtaking views of Meat Cove, St. Margaret’s Bay and surrounding mountain area from the summit. The parking lot near the trailhead isn’t the largest so try to come early to find a spot. 

• 2.3 miles (3.7km) out and back
• 875′ (270m) elevation gain
• Strenuous

Le Chemin du Buttereau Trail

Retrace the steps of the Acadian pioneers who travelled this cart path from Le Buttereau, a small settlement of seven families, to Chéticamp.  The open fields and bits of foundations are visible reminders of those hardy settlers.  This trail offers glimpses of the Chéticamp River, old pastures, small mammals and several species of birds. 

• 3.9 miles (6.2km) out and back
• 400′ (120m) elevation gain
• Moderate 

Theodore Fricker Mountain

Theodore Fricker Mountain, also known as Tenerife Peak or Tenerife Mountain, sits north of Cape Breton Highlands National Park along Aspy Bay. The trail starts off rather gradual but then ascends quickly from the base of the mountain to the summit. There are phenomenal views from the summit and you can continue along the ridge line for even more beautiful 360 degree views. 

• 2.3 miles (3.7km) out and back
• 950′ (290m) elevation gain 
• Strenuous

Featured Image: Cape Breton Highlands National Park- Cabot Trail- Green Cove, Photo by Mhsheikholeslami

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