Cape Breton Highlands National Park contains 26 hiking trails that provide enjoyment for people of all fitness levels. You will have the opportunity to hike one or several trails during the third day of the trip. Some of the trails that are of particular interest include:
Coastal Trail
This scenic trail hugs the ocean, briefly joining the Jack Pine Trail then continuing along granite headlands, coastal meadows and cobblestone beaches. Steve and Chris will hike this trail.
Freshwater Lake
Starting next to the ocean, this short, level trail follows the shoreline of a small lake that was once an ocean bay. A side trail (1.6 km return) follows the cobble barrier beach which separates the lake from the Atlantic Ocean. Hear the unique song of the loon, or catch a glimpse of one from the viewing deck. Complete your stroll with a dip in the ocean or in the Freshwater Lake.
Benjie's Lake
On the plateau at the top of the mountain, this trail crosses wet barrens and evergreen forests typical of the highlands, ending at a small lake. Boardwalks in some sections keep you dry and protect the habitat from trampling. Moose are frequently seen as well as a variety of northern birds. Steve and Chris will hike this trail.
Le vieux chemin du Cap-Rouge
Follow the route of the old Cabot Trail from Trout Brook as it gently climbs to a ridge midway up Jerome Mountain, offering views of the Atlantic along the entire length of this trail. Traces of Acadian history abound, with the remains of an old school, foundations of the former residents' houses, and the old wharf at La Bloc visible at various points on the journey. Your efforts will be rewarded at the final look-off featuring spectacular views of Presqu'ile and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. An exhibit at the look-off provides further information on the families who used to live here.
The trails listed here are just a random sampling of the sights you can see, and are not a suggest that you should choose these over any other. Information on the other 22 trails, all of which are worth visiting, is available in the links.
Original links
These are the links included in 2013. External websites may have changed.
- Parks Canada — Details on all 26 available trails
