Experience the Untamed Beauty of Margaree River Wilderness Area
Explore the Margaree River Wilderness Area, a nature preserve in Nova Scotia offering breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife for the adventurous traveler.
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Margaree River Wilderness Area in Nova Scotia, a nature lover's haven that offers a perfect escape into the wild.
A brief summary to Margaree River Wilderness Area
- Grand Étang, Nova Scotia, B0E 1L0, CA
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views and wildlife you encounter along the trails.
- Visit during the fall for spectacular foliage, as the trees transform into vibrant shades of red and gold.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal by the river for a truly serene experience in nature.
- Check local fishing regulations before casting your line, as certain areas may have specific rules.
- Dress in layers, as the weather can change quickly in Nova Scotia's wilderness.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Sydney, take the NS-125 N towards North Sydney. Merge onto NS-105 N and follow it until you reach the exit for NS-19 S towards Port Hawkesbury. Continue on NS-19 S until you arrive at the intersection with NS-6 S in Margaree Forks. Turn onto NS-6 S and follow the signs towards Grand Étang. After about 15 minutes, you will see signs for the Margaree River Wilderness Area. There is free parking available at the entrance.
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Public Transportation
To reach Margaree River Wilderness Area via public transportation, take a bus from Sydney to Port Hawkesbury. Once you arrive, you can take a local taxi service to Grand Étang. The taxi fare may vary but expect to pay around CAD 50-70 for the ride. Make sure to confirm the fare with your driver before starting the journey. Upon reaching Grand Étang, follow the signs to the Margaree River Wilderness Area, which is a short walk from the main road.
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Ride-share
Ride-share services like Uber or Lyft are available in some areas of Cape Breton. If you're in a major town like Sydney or Port Hawkesbury, you can request a ride to Grand Étang. The cost will depend on the distance and time of day, but you can expect to pay around CAD 40-80. Once dropped off, follow the signs to the Margaree River Wilderness Area, which is nearby.
Discover more about Margaree River Wilderness Area
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Corney Brook Trail
25.3 km
An easy, family-friendly hike through Acadian forest to a charming waterfall in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Skyline Trail
26.9 km
Hike Cape Breton's iconic Skyline Trail for breathtaking coastal views and unforgettable Highlands scenery. A must-see on the Cabot Trail.
Skyline Trail Cape Breton Highland National Park
27.9 km
Hike the iconic Skyline Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park for breathtaking coastal views and unforgettable vistas.
North Mountain look-off - The Aspy Fault
39.4 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.
Kidston Island
46.3 km
Discover the serene beauty of Kidston Island, a hidden gem in Nova Scotia, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility.
White Point Trailhead
58.4 km
Explore scenic coastal trails with historic charm at White Point Trailhead near Dingwall, Cape Breton. Breathtaking views and natural beauty await!
St. Peters Canal National Historic Site
94.0 km
Explore the rich maritime history and scenic beauty of St. Peters Canal National Historic Site in Nova Scotia, a must-visit for history enthusiasts.
Unmissable attractions to see
Gypsum Mine Lake, Accolade Hostel Retreat Campground
16.2 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Gypsum Mine Lake at Accolade Hostel Retreat Campground, where adventure meets tranquility in Nova Scotia.
Salmon Pools Trailhead
16.7 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.
Acadian Trailhead
17.1 km
Explore the breathtaking trails of Acadian Trailhead in Cape Breton Highlands, a must-visit hiking destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Le Vieux Chemin du Cap-Rouge Trailhead
24.2 km
Discover breathtaking views and enchanting landscapes on the Le Vieux Chemin du Cap-Rouge Trailhead along Nova Scotia's iconic Cabot Trail.
Lake-O-Law Provincial Park
25.6 km
Explore Lake O'Law Provincial Park, a tranquil Nova Scotia destination perfect for fishing, kayaking, and indulging in nature's beauty.
French Mountain
25.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of French Mountain in Nova Scotia, where panoramic views and adventure await outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
North River Falls Trailhead
26.4 km
Explore the mesmerizing North River Falls Trailhead in Nova Scotia, a hiking paradise with stunning waterfalls and vibrant scenery for all nature lovers.
North River Provincial Park
26.4 km
Explore North River Provincial Park in Nova Scotia: A serene escape with scenic trails, stunning waterfalls, and abundant wildlife.
Skyline Trailhead
27.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and rich wildlife of Skyline Trailhead in Cape Breton National Park, a must-visit hiking destination in Nova Scotia.
Bog Trailhead
27.3 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.
Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort | Cabot trail, Cape Breton
30.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Cabot Shores Wilderness Resort, your ideal escape along the scenic Cabot Trail in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
32.0 km
Discover the natural wonders of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where stunning views and outdoor adventures await in Nova Scotia's pristine wilderness.
Uisge Bàn Falls Provincial Park
34.0 km
Experience the serene beauty of Uisge Bàn Falls Provincial Park, where cascading waterfalls and lush trails create a perfect setting for nature lovers.
Cape Breton Highlands
35.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Cape Breton Highlands, a paradise of rugged cliffs, lush landscapes, and rich wildlife in Nova Scotia.
The Lone Shieling
36.4 km
Explore The Lone Shieling, a historical landmark in Nova Scotia, where nature meets rich Scottish heritage along the picturesque Cabot Trail.
Essential places to dine
Belle View Restaurant Ltd
17.1 km
Experience coastal dining at its finest with breathtaking views and locally sourced cuisine at Belle View Restaurant in Nova Scotia.
The Newland's Island cuisine
17.5 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Newland's Island, where fresh local ingredients meet warm hospitality amidst breathtaking coastal views.
Harbour Restaurant and Bar
17.6 km
Discover exquisite seafood dining at Harbour Restaurant and Bar along Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - where freshness meets flavor.
Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge
17.8 km
Discover authentic Nova Scotian flavors at Le Gabriel Restaurant & Lounge in Chéticamp - where fresh seafood meets warm hospitality.
L'abri café, restaurant et bar
18.2 km
Discover L'abri Café in Chéticamp: where local flavors meet stunning views along Nova Scotia's famous Cabot Trail.
Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery
21.3 km
Discover culinary bliss at Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery in Margaree Valley—where fresh ingredients meet delightful pastries in a cozy setting.
Woodroad Restaurant: A Cape Breton Dining Experience
23.1 km
Experience authentic Cape Breton dining at Woodroad Restaurant with locally sourced ingredients and breathtaking views.
Fish Out Of Water
24.0 km
Discover local flavors at Fish Out Of Water in Nova Scotia – where fresh ingredients meet breathtaking views along the Cabot Trail.
Chanterelle Restaurant, Inn & Cottages
29.8 km
Experience exquisite dining and cozy accommodations at Chanterelle Restaurant, Inn & Cottages along Nova Scotia's stunning Cabot Trail.
Cabot Shores Bistro
30.8 km
Discover fresh local flavors at Cabot Shores Bistro in Nova Scotia's breathtaking landscape.
Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery ( Seasonal may- October)
32.5 km
Discover Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery on Cabot Trail: A charming spot for fresh pastries and hearty meals amidst Cape Breton's stunning landscapes.
The Mountain View Restaurant
36.3 km
Experience local flavors and breathtaking views at The Mountain View Restaurant in Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia.
Rusty Anchor Restaurant
36.4 km
Experience fresh seafood delights at Rusty Anchor Restaurant on Nova Scotia's scenic Cabot Trail - perfect for family dining.
Highland Breeze Bistro
36.5 km
Experience authentic Nova Scotian cuisine at Highland Breeze Bistro in Inverness County—where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Bite House
36.5 km
Discover Bite House in Baddeck: A culinary treasure offering exquisite dishes made with fresh local ingredients.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Flora's Cabot Trail
14.3 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.
Marguerite boutique et provisions
17.7 km
Explore Marguerite Boutique et Provisions for a unique blend of local groceries, vintage finds, and a cozy café experience in Chéticamp.
Lola's Hooked Rugs
17.7 km
Explore the beautiful craftsmanship of hand-hooked rugs and unique local gifts at Lola's Hooked Rugs in Chéticamp, Nova Scotia.
The Bargain! Shop
17.8 km
Explore The Bargain! Shop in Petit Étang for unique local products, great deals, and a welcoming shopping experience in Nova Scotia.
Margaree Harbour Craft & Gift Shop
18.6 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
21.3 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
24.7 km
Explore Myles From Nowhere, where history meets charm in Inverness County's finest antique store, filled with timeless treasures.
The Other Cupboard Emporium
31.1 km
Explore The Other Cupboard Emporium in Indian Brook, NS: Your go-to spot for health foods, local treats, and unique souvenirs.
Wildfire Pottery
32.8 km
Explore the beauty of handcrafted ceramics at Wildfire Pottery, a unique store along the scenic Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia.
Wreck Cove General Store
35.0 km
Discover the perfect blend of convenience and local charm at Wreck Cove General Store on the stunning Cabot Trail.
Sew Inclined
36.3 km
Discover unique handmade hats and local craftsmanship at Sew Inclined, the must-visit hat shop in Englishtown, Nova Scotia.
Cardinal Points Gift Shop
36.6 km
Explore the heart of Nova Scotia through unique local crafts and souvenirs at Cardinal Points Gift Shop, a gem along the Cabot Trail.
Quincy Street Market
43.7 km
Discover unique clothing and local artistry at Quincy Street Market in Inverness, a must-visit destination for an authentic Nova Scotia experience.
The Opulent Alpaca
44.4 km
Explore The Opulent Alpaca, a boutique yarn store in Inverness, Nova Scotia, where creativity meets quality craftsmanship in a charming setting.
The Corner Store by missbrenna
44.9 km
Discover unique gifts and gourmet local treats at The Corner Store by missbrenna in Inverness, Nova Scotia, perfect for travelers seeking authentic souvenirs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Doryman Pub and Grill
18.1 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
19.3 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.
Castle Rock Country Inn
41.2 km
Discover the perfect blend of comfort and culinary delight at Castle Rock Country Inn on the iconic Cabot Trail.
Thirsty Hiker Pub
41.8 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.
Purple Thistle
42.6 km
Experience the essence of Nova Scotia at Purple Thistle, where local flavors and breathtaking views create an unforgettable dining experience.
Route 19 Brewing
43.0 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
43.4 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
45.9 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
53.2 km
Discover the warmth of Nova Scotia at Blue Mist Dining Room and Lounge, where local flavors meet a charming pub atmosphere.
The Underground
57.9 km
Discover the lively nightlife at The Underground in Sydney Mines, where locals and tourists mingle over cocktails and live music.
The Cellar Bar
58.5 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
66.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Nova Scotia at Island Folk Cider House, where local ciders and a welcoming atmosphere await.
The French Club
66.2 km
Discover The French Club, a cozy bar in Sydney, where exquisite drinks meet a warm ambiance for the perfect evening.
The Crown Cafe & Bar
66.4 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.
Capri Cabaret
66.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Capri Cabaret, Sydney's premier destination for live music, dancing, and unforgettable entertainment.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Le Portage Golf Club
18.1 km
Discover the scenic beauty and exceptional golfing experience at Le Portage Golf Club, a must-visit destination along Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail.
Cape Breton Highlands Links
41.9 km
Discover Cape Breton Highlands Links: A breathtaking golf experience amidst stunning natural beauty in Nova Scotia’s national park.
The Pit Lounge
71.1 km
Discover The Pit Lounge in Grand Lake Road, Nova Scotia, where creative cocktails meet a cozy atmosphere for a memorable night out.
Row St Club
75.5 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Row St Club in Glace Bay, a perfect spot for drinks and local culture.
