The Cabot Trail and all of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia is perfect for travelers of all ages. Whichever direction you choose to drive the Cabot Trail (clockwise or counter-clockwise) it will truly prove to be a drive you'll never forget and create memories you'll cherish forever! Cape Breton Highlands National Park is defined by Atlantic Ocean views and deep canyons carved by rivers flowing through the forests. 2020's top hiking trails in Cape Breton Island include Skyline Trail, Middle Head Trail + Louisbourg Lighthouse Coastal Trail. Choose the best weather days available to make this trip. Take your time, especially on blind curves. Nova Scotia's roads are, for the most part, well-maintained. The park ranger will give you a map of the park, marked with trails, picnic areas, and sites of interest. The weather on Cape Breton Island can vary from moment to moment. Everything You Need to Know About Hiking Steep Mountain Trail (Cape Mabou Highlands) 5 Reasons I Love Cape Breton Island; Point Michaud Beach: Cape Breton’s Best Surfing; The 5 BEST Port Hood Beaches (Photos + Expert Tips) 5 Best Hiking Trails in the Cape Breton Highlands; Archives. The Cabot Trail, a scenic roadway that takes you around the greater part of Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island, is one of the most famous drives in Canada. Allow enough time to stop for pictures because you will want to stop many, many times. The Cabot Trail, oh WOW! Dispose of all trash in covered, designated containers, particularly in the national park. … If you crash into one, the best you can expect is an extended hospital stay. Tips for making the most of your coastal island road trip. Cape Breton Highlands Snowmobile Trail Map near Cape Breton Highlands. Because the road goes up and down steep grades and curves, the clockwise direction is better for drivers (and passengers) who dislike driving next to steep drops. If you are looking for a great trail this is the one for you. Explore the best of Canada’s seacoast as you journey along the trail where awe-inspiring natural beauty is matched by … While this direction is less popular (it's billed as the direction for the brave driver), it may be easier to handle if you dislike slow traffic, as fewer people travel counter-clockwise. The trails provide a chance to intimately explore the complex habitat of northern Cape Breton Island. The Cape Breton Highlands (French: Plateau du Cap-Breton, Scottish Gaelic: Àrd-thalamh Cheap Bhreatainn), commonly called the Highlands, refer to a highland or mountainous plateau across the northern part of Cape Breton Island in the Canadian province of Nova Scotia.. 106 trails on an interactive map of the trail network. What better way to learn about Cape Breton than through the lives and work of its artisans. Ingonish. Visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park. If you plan to drive to Meat Cove, one of the northernmost points on the island, be aware that the road is a combination of gravel, dirt, and mud. Where to Go in 2021: 10 Future Trips You Can Start Planning Now, The Best Countries in the World for Adventurous Travelers. Many surrounding areas boast equally breathtaking trails. Cape Breton Highlands National Park: the most enchanted place in Canada. Most visitors want to stop here and there along the Cabot Trail, not only to stretch their legs or take photos but also to more fully enjoy the Cabot Trail experience. The Cabot Trail, a scenic roadway that takes you around the greater part of Nova Scotia's Cape Breton Island, is one of the most famous drives in Canada. You will not regret it! The 10 Best Day Trips to Take From Taipei, How to See the Tallest Trees on Earth: California's Redwoods, Driving in Newfoundland, Canada: What You Need to Know, Everything You Need to Know About Driving in Ireland, Canada's 10 Most Famous and Unforgettable Hiking Trails, Driving the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. Whichever direction you choose, you need to be aware of a few essential facts: According to the Cabot Trail tourism map, available at Nova Scotia welcome centers and various museums and merchants on Cape Breton Island, the entire Cabot Trail drive takes approximately five hours. You cannot cut across the center of Cape Breton Island. Nature doesn't end at the park's boundaries. click for Fullsize. Cape Breton Highlands Snowmobile Trail Map near Cape Breton Highlands. Cape Breton Trailer Sales Ltd. also offers manufacturing and extended warranty on our products and services. Nancy Parode is a freelance travel writer who has lived abroad three times. Stunning views, trails for all levels, secure and scenic picnic and camping areas, and most importantly conveniences are located all around the trail at Parks Canada run areas. While it has plenty of wonderful day hikes, Cape Breton lacks a true long-distance hiking trail. Our trip to explore the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Nova Scotia was hands-down one of the best trips we have ever taken. Because there is only one road around the island, a serious accident can create traffic problems very quickly. If you travel in a clockwise direction, you'll be on the "inside" lane as you drive along both coasts. There are a lot of hills and very remote but had stunning views. You won't be sorry; in fact, you'll wish you'd planned more time for the Cabot Trail. Driving counter-clockwise may give you a better view of some of the more spectacular ocean vistas along the way. Doing the trail is an incredible experience. Head backcountry for a peaceful walk in the woods. View Location View Map. 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