The 298-kilometer-long scenic cabot trail drive is a combination of roads, paths, and stairs. You can find some of the most breathtaking scenery along the way. In fact, it is considered one of the world’s most scenic drives. But before you head out on your journey, check for road closures or detours. If they occur, reduce your speed and prepare to stop at a later time.
1. Ingonish Beach
For those interested in experiencing the world-renowned Cabot Trail, Ingonish is a great destination. The town offers a range of accommodations, including lodges, chalets, and inns. Guests can walk to the beach from their accommodations or take the 3 minute stroll through a wooded path to access the beach.
The town of Ingonish is a charming seaside resort, with spectacular coastal and mountain views. There is also a variety of activities to enjoy while visiting Ingonish. Visitors can enjoy saltwater and freshwater swimming at Ingonish Beach, and take part in kayaking tours or other activities in the sand.
Ingonish is also home to a café called the Salty Rose. The cafe serves fair trade coffee and serves locally sourced food. There is a full service area in the town, including a grocery store, bank, and liquor store. The town also has two gas stations, a taxi service, and a variety of artisan shops.
Visitors can enjoy views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence from the scenic headland. The headland is home to a number of animals, including moose, bald eagles, and bears. The area is also home to numerous boreal birds. However, it’s important to remember that the area is extremely fragile, so dogs should not be allowed.
2. Lone Shieling
The Lone Shieling is a historic Scottish-style sheep crofters hut located in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. It was constructed in 1942 and is one of the oldest structures in the park. It is a federally recognized heritage building. Its significance to history makes it an important stop for visitors to the Cape Breton Highlands.
The Lone Shieling is a historical site on the Cabot Trail that pays tribute to the region’s Scottish heritage. In the past, farmers would build stone shepards huts for their flocks. Today, visitors can tour the hut and wander the pathways surrounding it.
The Lone Shieling is located in a section of 4,000 acres of protected hardwood forest. This area is home to many species of trees, including sugar maples, as well as red and white spruce. It is also home to millions of seedlings of sugar maple.
The Lone Shieling Cabot trail is open all year. However, full visitor services are available from mid-May to mid-October. Parks Canada Visitors Centres in Cheticamp and Ingonish offer information on trail safety. Visitors can also purchase maps and other hiking supplies at these sites.
Hiking along the Cabot Trail is a popular activity in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. There are four short trails and one long hike, and all of them are relatively easy. Locals recommend the “Off Cabot” hike near Neil’s Harbor, which follows the shoreline. Hiking along the Cabot Trail is a great way to get to know a new part of the area.
3. Uisge Ban Falls
The Uisge Ban Falls is located in Nova Scotia, near the town of New Glen. The waterfall is a popular hiking destination for those who enjoy nature. The trail leads to a picnic area and offers breathtaking views of the waterfall.
Hiking in the park is very easy. The falls are surrounded by beautiful hardwood forests. The trail is a 1.5-kilometer round-trip hike that includes a spectacular waterfall. This park is well maintained and includes restrooms, picnic tables, and interpretive signage. You should plan to spend about 1.5 hours hiking the trail to the falls, which is not difficult.
To enjoy the falls, you should plan your visit during the spring when the waterfall is at its most beautiful. You can get a great photo opportunity when you are close to the waterfall, which gives off a fresh waterfall smell. If you want to take photos of the waterfall, it is best to visit early in the spring, when the water levels are lower. While the waterfall is stunning in all seasons, it can be challenging to capture in a single photo.
The trailhead at the Uisge Ban Falls is easy to find. There are picnic tables and outhouses, and the trailhead is only 5-10 minutes from Highway 105. If you need a quick snack, you can stop by the Irving/Tim Hortons located just before the Baddeck exit. The park is situated inside the Uisge Ban Provincial Park.
Cabot Trail In Nova scotia also has beautiful campground and some of them are located in Ingonish and Indian Brook at Cabot Shores.
Ingonish campground
During the summer months, thousands of cyclists tackle the Cabot Trail under pedal power. Although it is not a long ride, there are some sections that are more challenging than others. Also, the lack of wide shoulders means that there can be some hairy moments. This is why it is important to pack essential camping gear.
The Ingonish Beach Campground is located in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park and is only a ten-minute walk from the Ingonish Visitor Center. The campground is near Ingonish Beach, which is one of the best beaches in the area. Additionally, it is possible to swim in the freshwater lake in the campground, which is much warmer than the ocean.
The campground is a mix of waterfront and forested sites. The level of privacy varies, but some sites are spectacular. There are also sites with direct access to the ocean, which makes them a great choice for those who enjoy water views. However, it is important to remember that these sites do not have electric or sewer hookups.
For those looking for a more rustic camping experience, consider Corney Brook campground. This site is close to the beach, and offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Cape Breton Highlands National Park is located on the top of Cape Breton Island and can be reached via the Cheticamp or Ingonish entrances.
People generally have a questions in mind before they make plans, how long to drive the Cabot trail? is the Cabot trail scary to drive? To answer it, here are the ways to travel on Cabot trail.
Traveling the Cabot Trail in One day
A day trip along the Cabot Trail is a great way to see this scenic route. The 186-mile route winds its way around Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, and passes through the breathtaking Cape Breton Highlands. Whether you’re driving or hiking, you’ll find a lot to see and do along the way. It’s best to give yourself at least three to five days to complete the entire trip, so that you can enjoy the beauty of the area.
While the Cabot Trail looks manageable on a map, it’s actually quite long, and it’s a great idea to start early in the morning so you don’t get caught in traffic. Getting out early will also let you take advantage of more scenic lookouts. Though the Cabot Trail is easily doable on a day trip, some travelers prefer to spend two or three days driving it.
One of the towns on the Cabot Trail is Cheticamp, which is home to almost four thousand people. There’s a strong French influence in the area, and the town has a substantial Acadian community. In addition, the town is the second entrance/exit for Highlands National Park, and there’s a campground and park information here.
A day trip down the Cabot Trail can be an enjoyable adventure, but it’s also important to find a place to eat on the Cabot Trail. Most towns have a number of dining options, but smaller towns might only have one or two. It’s best to check out their hours and menu options before making the trip. You can also travel Cabot trail itinerary 2 days.
Driving the Cabot Trail on a motorcycle
Driving the Cabot Trail on a motorcycle is one of the best ways to explore the untouched beauty of Cape Breton. It is a breathtaking experience that is sure to impress. This route is about 200 miles long and clings to the cliffs of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The ride is also known for its spectacular views.
After World War II, the Cabot Trail was developed as a motorized route, and is now a popular destination for Americans and Canadians alike. There are many options for riding the Cabot Trail on a motorcycle, including organized tours. However, it is important to consider the weather conditions of each destination. The summer months are generally mild, with plenty of sun, but temperatures can drop by the end of September.
Once you’ve reached Cape Breton, the Cabot Trail road continues through Neil’s Harbour. The road continues on to Lakies Head, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Atlantic. Further on, you can visit the famous Ingonish Beach, where the salt and fresh water meet. After leaving the town of Cape Breton, you’ll be surprised to see the spectacular scenery along the way.
The Cabot Trail is best ridden in a clockwise direction. It is a beautiful ride through classic Canadian scenery, with some steep cliffs and twisty roads. If you’re not into riding on the road with other vehicles, you can choose a slower pace. The slower pace allows you to take your time and enjoy the sights along the way.
MacKenzie CutcliffeFebruary 17, 2024.We had an excellent stay! We stayed in the tiny house and got the hot tub as an addition - the house was an adorable little cabin, very clean and had everything we needed (mini fridge, microwave and more!). The hot tub was worth the addition! Paul and the staff were so considerate, he even called me before we arrived and let me know how the roads were and to make sure I knew how to get to the tiny house since we were probably arriving after dark. I can’t say enough good things! We will definitely be back!Alexis HelenaFebruary 16, 2024.It was a great space, the manager was very helpful and answered all our questions. Will definitely be coming backKatie CrossleyJanuary 25, 2024.My husband and I got married at Cabot Shores last October, after staying there multiple times in the past and falling in love with the scenery and food!! Paul was amazing to deal with leading up to the wedding! I was definitely a needy bride lol and he was always so patient and helpful with everything. The whole thing went off without any issues at all and my guests had a great time and raved on and on about the food! We are huge out door people and loved the whole vibe ! We can’t wait to go back again soon and make more wonderful memories at this slice of heaven in our favourite place in the world, Cape Breton !!하준수(교원-영상디자인학과)January 10, 2024.An unforgettable experience for a family trip. A yurt experience is more than just lodging, especially if you have young children. What is most impressive of all is the owner and his wife, who are so kind and affectionate.Karleigh JohnstoneJanuary 8, 2024.Stayed in the Phoenix Dome for 2 nights and had the most wonderful experience. The dome was lovely and stayed warm through the night. The highlight of our stay was the food. My husband has been a chef for 20+ years and was blown away by the quality of the food. We had dinner one evening and the salmon was absolute perfection. We were lucky enough to be the only guests for breakfast so they cooked us a few items instead of the buffet and we enjoyed every bite. Hands down the best scrambled eggs I have ever eaten! The staff were so wonderful, kind and accommodating. We would love to return and spend more time here exploring the trails and relaxing on the beach. Thank you to everyone at Cabot Trail for such a wonderful experience!Bobbi ZahraJanuary 1, 2024.Hot tubs were great, overlooking the gorgeous water view. Yurt was super comfortable, very spacious, and even when the fire died while we were sleeping, we stayed cozy and warm - the bedding was superb. Recommendation for Red River Trail was great, and we enjoyed the hike very much.Sandy MackleyNovember 27, 2023.The staff at Cabot Shores actively took opportunities to make our stay relaxing and enjoyable. Our Mongolian Yurt was comfortable with the wood stove and outside hot tub. Would strongly recommend calling these fine folks and discussing your stay with them.
VerifiedLukasSeptember 21, 2022.Very nice people and a place full of joy ! Stayed 2 nights in the „Eagle dome“ which was really comfy and clean!Had really delicous dinner at the main lodge where paul played some music just for us and had nice conversations whith him and the other staffmembers.Also booked the hot tub at our dome for our last night from where we had a great view on the campfire.Lovely place where you see how much effort they put in every detail.VerifiedNicoleAugust 22, 2022.Amazing adventure! Lots of fun sleeping underneath the stars!VerifiedRyanAugust 14, 2022.RelaxingVerifiedNigelJuly 25, 2022.Beautiful place and very friendly staff. Perfect location if you’re travelling along the Cabot Trail, I highly recommend checking this place out! Would definitely stay here again. Thanks for a fantastic experience.VerifiedAnoojOctober 25, 2021.This was our first time staying in the Eagle Dome and we absolutely fell in love with this beautiful place. Super clean place to stay!VerifiedRedwanOctober 17, 2021.Very nice place to spend a couple of nights in the nature! My wife and I enjoyed our stay.It might be a good idea to install a heater in the dome as it can get chilly at night.VerifiedBrookeOctober 1, 2021.Beautiful, quaint place to stay! So unique and off grid. We loved staying at the dome!VerifiedMadisonSeptember 9, 2021.We had a great stay in the Eagle Dome! We loved watching the sunset and sunrise, and being able to hear the waves from the ocean. Next time we would stay a few more days and prepare a bit better - we weren’t packed for off grid but we made it work. Outhouse was a few steps away, shower and toilet a short walk. We didn’t get the hot tub or use the sauna/other amenities but would certainly consider it next time.
