St. Peters Canal National Historic Site: A Maritime Link
Explore a historic waterway where the Atlantic Ocean meets Bras d'Or Lake, offering scenic views and a glimpse into Canada's maritime past.
St. Peters Canal National Historic Site marks the location of a 19th-century canal that connects the Atlantic Ocean and Bras d'Or Lake, a vital waterway in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. This historic site showcases the ingenuity of 19th-century engineering and the area's rich history as a Mi'kmaq portage route and French trading post.
A brief summary to St. Peters Canal National Historic Site
- 160 Toulouse St, St. Peter's, Nova Scotia, B0E 3B0, CA
- +1902-535-2118
- Visit website
Local tips
- Bring a picnic to enjoy by the canal while taking in the beautiful scenery.
- Visit during the summer for the best weather and to see more boating activity.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking the trails and exploring the exhibits.
- Check out nearby Battery Provincial Park for hiking, camping, and swimming.
Getting There
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Driving
St. Peters Canal National Historic Site is located in the village of St. Peter's, approximately 80 km southwest of Sydney, Nova Scotia, on Route 4. From Sydney, take NS-125 S to NS-4 E, then merge onto NS-104 E. Continue on NS-104 E until Exit 39 for NS-4 E towards Port Hawkesbury. Follow NS-4 E, then turn left onto NS-316 S to St. Peter's. From Port Hawkesbury, drive east and turn left onto NS-4 Trunk E. Then, turn right onto NS-104 E towards St. Peter's. Continue through the village until just before the swing bridge, then turn right onto Denys Street, and finally left onto Toulouse Street. Parking is available on-site.
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Public Transport
Public transport options to St. Peter's are limited. The most practical approach involves taking a bus from major cities like Sydney or Halifax to Port Hawkesbury. From the Port Hawkesbury bus terminal, arrange for a taxi or rideshare service to reach St. Peter's, approximately 20 km away. Maritimebus operates a bus from Dartmouth (Halifax) to Port Hawkesbury once daily. The bus ticket costs around $40-$55 CAD, and the journey takes approximately 4 hours. A taxi or rideshare from Port Hawkesbury to St. Peter's will cost approximately $40-$60 CAD.
Discover more about St. Peters Canal National Historic Site
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
St. Peters Canal National Historic Site
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