Skyline Trail: Cape Breton's Coastal Gem
Hike the iconic Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park for breathtaking coastal views and unforgettable wilderness experience.
The Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a renowned hiking destination offering breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Cabot Trail. This easy-to-moderate trail leads to a dramatic headland cliff, providing an unforgettable wilderness experience suitable for families and seasoned hikers alike.
A brief summary to Skyline Trailhead
- 19713 Cabot Trail, Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia, B0E 2P0, CA
- +1902-224-2306
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early or during off-peak hours to avoid crowds, especially in the summer and on weekends.
- Purchase a Parks Canada pass online or at the park entrance, as it's required to access the trail.
- Stay on the boardwalk to protect the fragile headland plants and for your safety due to steep cliffs and high winds.
- Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent, and wear appropriate footwear for the easy-to-moderate terrain.
Getting There
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Driving
The Skyline Trailhead is located off the Cabot Trail, approximately 15 km (9.3 miles) north of Chéticamp. From Chéticamp, drive north on the Cabot Trail. The parking lot for the Skyline Trail will be on your left, with clear signs indicating the trailhead. Be aware that parking is limited, especially during peak season, so arrive early. To access the Skyline Trail, a valid Parks Canada pass is required. A day pass costs $9.00 for adults. Alternatively, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which provides access to numerous national parks, can be purchased for $75.25.
Discover more about Skyline Trailhead
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Corney Brook Trail
3.9 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
19.6 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
42.8 km
Explore scenic coastal trails with historic charm at White Point Trailhead near Dingwall, Cape Breton. Breathtaking views and natural beauty await!
Kidston Island
72.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kidston Island, a hidden gem in Nova Scotia, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
Cape Breton Tourist Scavenger Hunt
85.8 km
Explore Cape Breton like never before with the Tourist Scavenger Hunt – an interactive journey through stunning landscapes and local culture.
East Point Lighthouse
89.5 km
Explore the historic East Point Lighthouse, a scenic gem on Prince Edward Island renowned for its maritime history and breathtaking coastal views.
Goat Island
90.8 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
92.5 km
Discover the birthplace of transatlantic wireless communication at the Marconi National Historic Site in Glace Bay, Nova Scotia.
Cape Breton Miners Museum
94.4 km
Descend into history at the Cape Breton Miners Museum, where the stories of coal miners come to life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Skyline Trail
0.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
French Mountain
1.2 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 Cape Breton Highland National Park
2.1 km
Explore the stunning Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park for breathtaking ocean views and unforgettable hiking experiences.
Bog Trailhead
4.0 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
4.5 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.
Le Vieux Chemin du Cap-Rouge Trailhead
5.2 km
Discover breathtaking views and enchanting landscapes on the Le Vieux Chemin du Cap-Rouge Trailhead along Nova Scotia's iconic Cabot Trail.
MacKenzie Mountain look-off - The Highland Plateau
8.7 km
Experience breathtaking views and serene landscapes at the MacKenzie Mountain Look-Off in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
MacKenzie Mountain Look-off - Whales
9.2 km
Discover breathtaking views of the Atlantic coastline and lush landscapes at the MacKenzie Mountain Look-off in Nova Scotia, a must-visit for nature lovers.
Le Buttereau Trailhead
9.5 km
Explore the breathtaking trails and natural beauty of Le Buttereau Trailhead in Nova Scotia, a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.
Petit Étang beach
10.4 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.
Whale Interpretive Centre
11.3 km
Explore the Whale Interpretive Centre in Pleasant Bay for an unforgettable journey into the world of whales and marine conservation.
MacIntosh Brook Trailhead
11.5 km
Discover the natural beauty of MacIntosh Brook Trailhead, a premier hiking destination in Cape Breton National Park, Nova Scotia.
Chéticamp Campground - National Park
11.7 km
Explore the natural beauty of Chéticamp Campground in Cape Breton National Park, a perfect retreat for outdoor adventures and peaceful relaxation.
Acadian Trailhead
12.0 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Acadian Trailhead in Cape Breton Highlands, a must-visit hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Salmon Pools Trailhead
12.3 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.
Essential places to dine
Rusty Anchor Restaurant
10.1 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Rusty Anchor Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - perfect for family dining.
The Mountain View Restaurant
10.7 km
Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at The Mountain View Restaurant in Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia.
Highland Breeze Bistro
10.7 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Highland Breeze Bistro in Inverness County—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
L'abri café, restaurant et bar
14.7 km
Discover L'abri Café in Chéticamp: where local flavors meet stunning views along Nova Scotia's famous Cabot Trail.
Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge
15.4 km
Discover authentic Nova Scotian flavors at Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge in Chéticamp - where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality.
Harbour Restaurant and Bar
15.9 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
16.2 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Newland's Island, where fresh local ingredients meet warm hospitality amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Morrison's Restaurant
32.4 km
Discover delicious seafood and local cuisine at Morrison's Restaurant on the scenic Cabot Trail in Cape North, Nova Scotia.
Angies Family Restaurant & Pizza
32.9 km
Discover Angies Family Restaurant & Pizza in Cape North - where delicious comfort food meets breathtaking views along the Cabot Trail.
South Harbour Pines woodfired pizza
34.3 km
Experience authentic wood-fired pizza amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Breton Island at South Harbour Pines.
Danena's Bakery & Bistro
34.3 km
Experience the best of Cape Breton at Danena's Bakery & Bistro—where every bite tells a story amidst stunning coastal views.
Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub
36.8 km
Experience authentic Cape Breton flavors at Crofter's Table Restaurant & Thirsty Hiker Pub along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Belle View Restaurant Ltd
37.0 km
Experience coastal dining at its finest with breathtaking views and locally sourced cuisine at Belle View Restaurant in Nova Scotia.
Coastal Restaurant & Pub
37.7 km
Discover Coastal Restaurant & Pub in Ingonish - where fresh seafood meets scenic views along the Cabot Trail.
Main Street Restaurant
38.1 km
Experience local flavors at Main Street Restaurant on the scenic Cabot Trail in Ingonish Beach – where great food meets stunning views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Cardinal Points Gift Shop
10.5 km
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The Bargain! Shop
15.4 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
15.7 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
15.7 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
20.4 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.
T & R Crafts & Gifts
29.1 km
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Cabot Trail Food Market Ltd
32.9 km
Explore the essence of Nova Scotia at Cabot Trail Food Market Ltd, your go-to stop for local groceries and unique regional flavors.
Courtney's Country Crafts
34.2 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
34.3 km
Explore Tartans and Treasures in Dingwall, Nova Scotia - a unique store offering authentic Scottish goods and local crafts along the scenic Cabot Trail.
Margaree Harbour Craft & Gift Shop
39.5 km
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Sew Inclined
41.9 km
Discover unique handmade hats and local craftsmanship at Sew Inclined, the must-visit hat shop in Englishtown, Nova Scotia.
Wreck Cove General Store
42.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of convenience and local charm at Wreck Cove General Store on the stunning Cabot Trail.
Wildfire Pottery
47.0 km
Explore the beauty of handcrafted ceramics at Wildfire Pottery, a unique store along the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
Two Macs Gallery
47.3 km
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Myles From Nowhere
48.7 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Doryman Pub and Grill
14.9 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.
Thirsty Hiker Pub
36.8 km
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Purple Thistle
39.7 km
Experience the essence of Nova Scotia at Purple Thistle, where local flavors and breathtaking views create an unforgettable dining experience.
Castle Rock Country Inn
40.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and culinary delight at Castle Rock Country Inn on the iconic Cabot Trail.
Normaway Inn Music Barn
45.9 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.
Route 19 Brewing
64.6 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
65.0 km
Discover Cabot Bar in Mabou, Nova Scotia – a picturesque spot for craft drinks and breathtaking views along the Cabot Trail.
Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge
70.8 km
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The Narrows Cafe and Bar
72.6 km
Discover the flavors of Nova Scotia at The Narrows Cafe and Bar, where stunning views meet exquisite cuisine in Baddeck.
The Underground
74.8 km
Discover the lively nightlife at The Underground in Sydney Mines, where locals and tourists mingle over cocktails and live music.
The Cellar Bar
76.6 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
85.0 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Nova Scotia at Island Folk Cider House, where local ciders and a welcoming atmosphere await.
The French Club
85.0 km
Discover The French Club, a cozy bar in Sydney, where exquisite drinks meet a warm ambiance for the perfect evening.
Capri Cabaret
85.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Capri Cabaret, Sydney's premier destination for live music, dancing, and unforgettable entertainment.
The Crown Cafe & Bar
85.3 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.
