Acadian Trail: A Coastal Hiking Gem
Hike the Acadian Trail for breathtaking views of Cape Breton's highlands and coastline; a moderately challenging loop in a stunning national park.
The Acadian Trail, located in Cape Breton Highlands National Park near Petit Étang, Nova Scotia, offers a moderately challenging 8.4 km loop with stunning panoramic views of the Acadian coastline, the Chéticamp River valley, and the park's highland interior. It's a rewarding hike through diverse landscapes, with opportunities to spot local wildlife.
A brief summary to Acadian Trailhead
- 16648 Cabot Trail, Petit Étang, Nova Scotia, B0E 2M0, CA
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check in at the Chéticamp Visitor Centre for park passes, safety information, and trail maps.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and appropriate clothing for rapid weather changes.
- Bring water, insect repellent, and snacks for a comfortable hike.
- Hike counterclockwise for a less strenuous climb and rewarding views.
- Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Getting There
-
Car
From Chéticamp, head north on the Cabot Trail (NS-30) for approximately 7.5 km. The Acadian Trailhead is located across from the Chéticamp Visitor Centre, just inside the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Free parking is available at the trailhead. Note that a park pass is required to use the trail. Daily passes are CAD $9.00 for adults, CAD $7.75 for seniors, and CAD $17.50 for a family/group.
-
Public Transport
Take the Maritime Bus from Sydney to Chéticamp. From Chéticamp, a taxi to the Acadian Trailhead will cost approximately CAD $13-16 and take about 4 minutes. Alternatively, L'Acabie Transport offers service in Northern Inverness County. A park pass is required to use the trail. Daily passes are CAD $9.00 for adults, CAD $7.75 for seniors, and CAD $17.50 for a family/group.
-
Walking
From Chéticamp, it is approximately a 5.7 km walk to Petit Étang, taking an hour and 8 minutes. From there, the Acadian Trailhead is a short walk further along the Cabot Trail. Note that a park pass is required to use the trail. Daily passes are CAD $9.00 for adults, CAD $7.75 for seniors, and CAD $17.50 for a family/group.
Discover more about Acadian Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Corney Brook Trail
8.9 km
An easy, family-friendly hike through Acadian forest to a charming waterfall in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
North Mountain look-off - The Aspy Fault
29.8 km
Breathtaking views of the Aspy Fault from North Mountain, a must-see stop along Cape Breton's Cabot Trail. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
White Point Trailhead
52.2 km
Explore scenic coastal trails with historic charm at White Point Trailhead near Dingwall, Cape Breton. Breathtaking views and natural beauty await!
Kidston Island
63.4 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kidston Island, a hidden gem in Nova Scotia, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
East Point Lighthouse
81.1 km
Explore the historic East Point Lighthouse, a scenic gem on Prince Edward Island renowned for its maritime history and breathtaking coastal views.
Cape Breton Tourist Scavenger Hunt
81.5 km
Explore Cape Breton like never before with the Tourist Scavenger Hunt – an interactive journey through stunning landscapes and local culture.
Goat Island
82.1 km
Discover Mi'kmaq culture and natural beauty on Goat Island, a serene escape in Nova Scotia's Bras d'Or Lake UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
Marconi National Historic Site
90.5 km
Discover the birthplace of transatlantic wireless communication at the Marconi National Historic Site in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.
Cape Breton Miners Museum
92.3 km
Descend into history at the Cape Breton Miners Museum, where the stories of coal miners come to life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Salmon Pools Trailhead
0.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of Salmon Pools Trailhead in Nova Scotia, a stunning hiking area along the scenic Cabot Trail, perfect for outdoor adventures.
Chéticamp Campground - National Park
0.6 km
Explore the natural beauty of Chéticamp Campground in Cape Breton National Park, a perfect retreat for outdoor adventures and peaceful relaxation.
Petit Étang beach
2.7 km
Explore the pristine sands and tranquil waters of Petit Étang Beach, a serene nature preserve in Inverness County, Nova Scotia, perfect for nature lovers and sun-seekers.
Gypsum Mine Lake, Accolade Hostel Retreat Campground
3.2 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Gypsum Mine Lake at Accolade Hostel Retreat Campground, where adventure meets tranquility in Nova Scotia.
Le Buttereau Trailhead
3.3 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and natural beauty of Le Buttereau Trailhead in Nova Scotia, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Le Vieux Chemin du Cap-Rouge Trailhead
7.6 km
Discover breathtaking views and enchanting landscapes on the Le Vieux Chemin du Cap-Rouge Trailhead along Nova Scotia's iconic Cabot Trail.
Cheticamp Island Beach
8.2 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Cheticamp Island Beach, a coastal paradise in Nova Scotia with soft sands and stunning ocean views.
French Mountain
10.8 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of French Mountain in Nova Scotia, where panoramic views and adventure await outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Skyline Trail
11.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
Skyline Trail Cape Breton Highland National Park
11.9 km
Explore the stunning Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park for breathtaking ocean views and unforgettable hiking experiences.
Skyline Trailhead
12.0 km
Discover breathtaking vistas and diverse ecosystems at Skyline Trailhead, the ultimate hiking destination in Nova Scotia's Cape Breton National Park.
Grand Étang
13.5 km
Discover the serene beauty of Grand Étang, a tranquil water escape in Canada perfect for relaxation, adventure, and nature exploration.
Bog Trailhead
14.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of the Bog Trailhead along the Cabot Trail, a must-visit hiking area in Nova Scotia, where nature and tranquility await.
Fishing Cove trailhead
16.3 km
Explore the scenic beauty of Fishing Cove Trailhead, a premier hiking destination along Nova Scotia's iconic Cabot Trail, perfect for all outdoor enthusiasts.
Margaree River Wilderness Area
17.1 km
Explore the Margaree River Wilderness Area, a nature preserve in Nova Scotia offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife for the adventurous traveler.
Essential places to dine
L'abri café, restaurant et bar
4.1 km
Discover L'abri Café in Chéticamp: where local flavors meet stunning views along Nova Scotia's famous Cabot Trail.
Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge
4.6 km
Discover authentic Nova Scotian flavors at Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge in Chéticamp - where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality.
Harbour Restaurant and Bar
5.0 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining at Harbour Restaurant and Bar along Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - where freshness meets flavor.
The Newland's Island cuisine
5.2 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Newland's Island, where fresh local ingredients meet warm hospitality amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Rusty Anchor Restaurant
22.1 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Rusty Anchor Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - perfect for family dining.
The Mountain View Restaurant
22.6 km
Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at The Mountain View Restaurant in Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia.
Highland Breeze Bistro
22.6 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Highland Breeze Bistro in Inverness County—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Belle View Restaurant Ltd
25.1 km
Experience coastal dining at its finest with breathtaking views and locally sourced cuisine at Belle View Restaurant in Nova Scotia.
Woodroad Restaurant: A Cape Breton Dining Experience
31.0 km
Experience authentic Cape Breton dining at Woodroad Restaurant with locally sourced ingredients and breathtaking views.
Fish Out Of Water
35.9 km
Discover local flavors at Fish Out Of Water in Nova Scotia – where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking views along the Cabot Trail.
Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery
35.9 km
Discover culinary bliss at Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery in Margaree Valley—where fresh ingredients meet delightful pastries in a cozy setting.
Main Street Restaurant
41.6 km
Experience local flavors at Main Street Restaurant on the scenic Cabot Trail in Ingonish Beach – where great food meets stunning views.
Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub
41.7 km
Experience authentic Cape Breton flavors at Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Coastal Restaurant & Pub
42.8 km
Discover Coastal Restaurant & Pub in Ingonish - where fresh seafood meets scenic views along the Cabot Trail.
Morrison's Restaurant
42.8 km
Discover delicious seafood and local cuisine at Morrison's Restaurant on the scenic Cabot Trail in Cape North, Nova Scotia.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Bargain! Shop
4.5 km
Explore The Bargain! Shop in Petit Étang for unique local products, great deals, and a welcoming shopping experience in Nova Scotia.
Lola's Hooked Rugs
4.8 km
Explore the beautiful craftsmanship of hand-hooked rugs and unique local gifts at Lola's Hooked Rugs in Chéticamp, Nova Scotia.
Marguerite boutique et provisions
4.8 km
Explore Marguerite Boutique et Provisions for a unique blend of local groceries, vintage finds, and a cozy café experience in Chéticamp.
Flora's Cabot Trail
8.6 km
Experience the best of Nova Scotia at Flora's Cabot Trail, where delicious ice cream meets unique local shopping in a stunning coastal setting.
Cardinal Points Gift Shop
22.4 km
Explore the heart of Nova Scotia through unique local crafts and souvenirs at Cardinal Points Gift Shop, a gem along the Cabot Trail.
Margaree Harbour Craft & Gift Shop
27.5 km
Explore the charm of Margaree Harbour Craft & Gift Shop, where local artisans showcase their unique crafts and gifts along the stunning Cabot Trail.
Two Macs Gallery
35.9 km
Explore Two Macs Gallery: A treasure trove of Cape Breton crafts and art in North East Margaree, perfect for unique gifts and local souvenirs.
Myles From Nowhere
36.9 km
Explore Myles From Nowhere, where history meets charm in Inverness County's finest antique store, filled with timeless treasures.
T & R Crafts & Gifts
39.5 km
Uncover the beauty of local craftsmanship at T & R Crafts & Gifts in Cape North, Nova Scotia, where every item tells a story.
Sew Inclined
42.5 km
Discover unique handmade hats and local craftsmanship at Sew Inclined, the must-visit hat shop in Englishtown, Nova Scotia.
Wreck Cove General Store
42.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of convenience and local charm at Wreck Cove General Store on the stunning Cabot Trail.
Cabot Trail Food Market Ltd
43.3 km
Explore the essence of Nova Scotia at Cabot Trail Food Market Ltd, your go-to stop for local groceries and unique regional flavors.
Wildfire Pottery
44.1 km
Explore the beauty of handcrafted ceramics at Wildfire Pottery, a unique store along the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
Courtney's Country Crafts
44.1 km
Discover unique handcrafted treasures at Courtney's Country Crafts, a charming craft store on the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
Tartans and Treasures
44.2 km
Explore Tartans and Treasures in Dingwall, Nova Scotia - a unique store offering authentic Scottish goods and local crafts along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Doryman Pub and Grill
4.3 km
Experience the warmth and local flavors at The Doryman Pub and Grill, a must-visit destination on the Cabot Trail in Chéticamp, Nova Scotia.
Normaway Inn Music Barn
34.8 km
Discover the heart of Nova Scotia's music scene at Normaway Inn Music Barn, a cozy venue in Margaree Valley with unforgettable live performances.
Thirsty Hiker Pub
41.7 km
Discover the warmth of Cape Breton at Thirsty Hiker Pub, where local brews and hearty meals await after your adventure on the Cabot Trail.
Castle Rock Country Inn
43.7 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and culinary delight at Castle Rock Country Inn on the iconic Cabot Trail.
Purple Thistle
43.9 km
Experience the essence of Nova Scotia at Purple Thistle, where local flavors and breathtaking views create an unforgettable dining experience.
Route 19 Brewing
52.7 km
Experience the vibrant craft beer culture at Route 19 Brewing in Inverness, Nova Scotia, where local flavors meet a unique dining atmosphere.
Cabot bar
53.0 km
Discover Cabot Bar in Mabou, Nova Scotia – a picturesque spot for craft drinks and breathtaking views along the Cabot Trail.
The Narrows Cafe and Bar
63.0 km
Discover the flavors of Nova Scotia at The Narrows Cafe and Bar, where stunning views meet exquisite cuisine in Baddeck.
Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge
66.9 km
Discover the warmth of Nova Scotia at Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge, where local flavors meet a charming pub atmosphere.
The Underground
71.3 km
Discover the lively nightlife at The Underground in Sydney Mines, where locals and tourists mingle over cocktails and live music.
The Cellar Bar
72.5 km
Discover The Cellar Bar in North Sydney, Nova Scotia, where local brews and unique appetizers create a cozy dining experience.
Island Folk Cider House
80.6 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Nova Scotia at Island Folk Cider House, where local ciders and a welcoming atmosphere await.
The French Club
80.6 km
Discover The French Club, a cozy bar in Sydney, where exquisite drinks meet a warm ambiance for the perfect evening.
Capri Cabaret
80.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Capri Cabaret, Sydney's premier destination for live music, dancing, and unforgettable entertainment.
The Crown Cafe & Bar
80.8 km
Experience the heart of Sydney at The Crown Cafe & Bar, where great food, drinks, and local culture come together in a vibrant pub setting.
