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The 10 Prettiest Waterfalls on Cape Breton Island

There are over two dozen well-documented waterfalls on Cape Breton Island, each one with its own distinctive allure. Some Cabot Trail waterfalls are more about the rugged, undeniably serene trip than the destination. Others have the ability to stop you in your tracks upon first sight. Cabot Shores, one of the premier Nova Scotia resorts, happens to be located near Indian Brook Falls, a challenging, yet undeniably reward hike. When you’re not relaxing in a chalet, paddling atop Church Pond, or dining on gourmet cuisine, please accept nature’s invitation into the backcountry en route to a towering, picturesque waterfall.

10 Jaw-Dropping Waterfalls on Cape Breton Island

Indian Brook Falls
Indian Brook (Widow’s Veil Falls)

“Waterfalling” has grown into one of the most desirable recreational activities amongst couples who have a penchant for adventure, spontaneity, and isolation. Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and the isle itself, is home to a bevy of rivers, brooks, and creeks that weave and subtly descend toward the Atlantic Ocean. Slow erosion, over an innumerable amount of time, gave way to these natural wonders. Waterfalling is best combined with hiking, forest bathing, Geocaching, or birding. The journey to many of these waterfalls on Cape Breton Island is exceedingly lengthy; thus, an element of backpacking is often tossed into the fold. Without further ado, here are 10 of the prettiest waterfalls in Nova Scotia:

  1. Indian Brook Falls — A challenging, three-hour hike to the Great Falls from the Cabot Shores. The Brook has three falls, including the prominent Great Falls and Widow’s Veils Falls (as shown on the above). It’s about one hour and a half round trip to Widow’s Veils Falls.
  2. North River Falls — Backpacking at its finest. Mostly flat. It’s just you and nature. What a payoff! There’s also a shorter hike to the falls for those who only want a quick photo or two, and salmon fishing with a license.
  3. Uisge Bàn Falls — A leisurely stroll to a subtly beautiful fall. Uisge peacefully slips down the hill.
  4. Humes River Falls — Not easy to find. At 11.5 kilometres, years of hiking experience is required. Luckily, very few people know about this hidden gem.
  5. Mary Ann Falls — Please drive slowly as several potholes lie on the road to the fall. Mary Ann Falls is an idyllic swimming hole (as pictured above).
  6. Gillis Lake Falls — An easy walk down into a creek. Typically, only locals visit it.
  7. Myles Doyle Falls — This lengthy slide is particularly beautiful during autumn’s peak. Follow the ribbons that mark the path. Boy, it really gushes during spring!
  8. Egypt Falls — The property owners ask that you please be respectful of the land. It is currently not open to the public.
  9. Beulach Ban Falls — A quick roadside stop. The hiking trail that runs past Beulach Ban isn’t overly alluring at its beginning, but the 65-foot-tall falls are exceedingly gorgeous. Later, after visiting the Falls, go to the trail which has good views of the Asby Fault
  10. Still Brook Falls — A quiet place. Remember to pack a picnic. Still Brook flows into Black Brook Cove. Remains a bit of a mystery.

In-depth directions to and from Indian Brook, North River, and Mary Ann can be found on Dr. Paul’s article from January of 2015. For more information about guided and self-guided hikes, please fill out a booking inquiry form.

Mid-summer Cape Breton Getaways: Discover Cabot Shores

Photo of a Yurt near the Best Waterfalls on Cape Breton.

After locating a handful of waterfalls on Cape Breton Island, return to Cabot Shores for a night to remember. This award-winning coastal haven is the digital detox or glamping experience that you’ve been searching for since spring’s thaw. Choose between a chalet, campground, dome camping, yurt, tiny house, classic lodge, or farmhouse. The culinary voyage at Cabot Shores Bistro is also a memorable (and delicious) endeavour. Adventure, exploration, and relaxation is always a stone’s throw away, as is the deep blue sea. Please give us a call today at 866-929-2584 to book a well-deserved Canadian escape to Nova Scotia’s awe-inspiring Cabot Trail. And don’t forget to read the latest news on our website.



Good
Based on 289 reviews
Seahorselife Shannon (Seahorselife_Canada)
Seahorselife Shannon (Seahorselife_Canada)
October 17, 2023.
My boyfriend and I came here on a whim for lunch while in the area. What a pleasant surprise! Loved the unique atmosphere and amazing, friendly people. Could have very well have been the best salmon I have ever eaten. Everything was cooked to perfection. Fresh and tasty. Hats off to the chef. We also had the mussels... huge portion and delicious. We took a walk about the property, one of a kind cabins/domes to stay in.. most of which, if not all had their own hot tub. Even a sauna by the water. We would definitely highly recommend eating here at the bistro even if you are not staying over night. Everyone is lovely.. they even offered to email us the salmon recipe because we loved it so much. My only suggestion to owners would be to get better signage on the roadway, so visitors can find you easier. We passed the place twice before actually finding it. I think if there were two more signs a little up the rd on either side, more people may be able to come visit this hidden little gem. Thanks so much for a great lunch and top-notch service.
Jasmine Rahmel
Jasmine Rahmel
October 17, 2023.
Loved the location and the amenities. What a unique resort. The upgrade to the chalet was wonderful. Above and beyond.
Malcolm
Malcolm
October 16, 2023.
Stayed at Cabot shores from October 7th-13th was an unforgettable experience. Stayed in a yurt and very spacious and comfortable. The location along the sea was gorgeous and could hop over to the beach whenever. Kayaked two of those days and could see beaver domes while doing so. Would highly try the food as well very accommodating to all dietary requirements. Recommend the chickpea massala very nice meal! Friendly staff and good accommodation. 5/5
Vishnu Vardhana
Vishnu Vardhana
October 15, 2023.
Amazing experience in the yurt and dome. Friendly staff and beautiful views!
Trevor B
Trevor B
September 13, 2023.
Stopped for lunch and ordered the spaghetti bolognese. Very hearty and lots of meat. A nice satisfying meal. One surprise was to see a mandatory 10% gratuity when paying the bill. Who does this for a party of less than 5?
kate mcauley
kate mcauley
September 12, 2023.
We had our wedding here over the September long weekend and we honestly couldn't have asked for a better experience! Our wedding was just over 40 adults with some children. The owner and all the staff were very friendly, accommodating and went above and beyond with everything to help us have the best time. Over the weekend staff were knowledgeable with things to do on and off of the resort when asked by our guests. The food was exceptional!! All of our guests could not stop raving about the food that was served- for all meals. Accommodations are rustic and cute, exactly what we were looking for! Many hot tubs arounds the resort as well that can be moved to your accommodation if you request it. The resort is quite large as well with lots of beautiful scenery. Location on the Cabot trail was great as well. We have nothing but positive things to say about our experience here!

Excellent
Based on 50 reviews
Lukas
Lukas
September 21, 2022.
Verified
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.
Nicole
Nicole
August 22, 2022.
Verified
Amazing adventure! Lots of fun sleeping underneath the stars!
Ryan
Ryan
August 14, 2022.
Verified
Relaxing
Nigel
Nigel
July 25, 2022.
Verified
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.
Anooj
Anooj
October 25, 2021.
Verified
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!
Redwan
Redwan
October 17, 2021.
Verified
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.
Brooke
Brooke
October 1, 2021.
Verified
Beautiful, quaint place to stay! So unique and off grid. We loved staying at the dome!
Madison
Madison
September 9, 2021.
Verified
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.
Micayla
Micayla
August 16, 2021.
Verified
This place is absolutely beautiful! We loved our stay here. I highly recommend it. All the staff are very friendly. The dome was such a unique experience looking at the stars and watching the sun rise. The beach is beautiful and there’s a little swimming spot 2 minutes down the road that we really enjoyed 🙂

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