10 Most Instagrammable Locations on Cape Breton Island

Want to show off your Cape Breton Island adventure? Cape Breton is filled with showstopping photo opportunities that will have you planning future visits for years to come. Below you will find some of our most photographed locations.

1. Skyline Trail

This trail may be one of Atlantic Canada’s most photographed locations. The Skyline Trail features a dramatic headland cliff that overlooks the rugged coast. Watch for whales in the Gulf of St. Lawrence from the viewing decks. Moose, bald eagles, bears, and numerous boreal birds live in this habitat. Every part of this scenic trail was meant to be photographed.

2. Franey Trail

Need a dramatic photograph?  A Franey Trail sunrise is one of your best bets. The view at the top looks out over the expansive Clyburn Valley with a clear view of the Atlantic Ocean looking east. Large flat rocks give you a nice place to sit and brew a cup of camp coffee to help keep you awake after your early wake-up call!

3. Tenerife Mountain

This hidden gem requires more than just a commitment from the weather. Tenerife Mountain is a short, steep hike, but we promise as soon as you reach the top the 360-degree view is worth it. Sit on the peak, snap a selfie and enjoy the amazing view of Aspy Bay, Aspy Valley and the Cape Breton Highlands from a vantage point like no other!

4. Meat Cove

Meat Cove Campground is surrounded by jagged cliffs and valleys of connected mountains where bald eagles soar above. Here, you will find yourself surrounded by magnificent views, it is ideal for a nature photographer. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, be sure to check out the number of hiking trails found there!

5. North River Falls

This beauty of a waterfall is arguably the tallest waterfall in Nova Scotia. Towering over 30 m tall this waterfall will make anyone feel small. To see these falls you must hike 9km through beautiful forests along the North River. Be prepared for a full day’s hike but the reward is so worth it. This waterfall is a must-see!

6. Isle Madame

This breathtaking island, off the coast of Cape Breton Island, is a photographer’s paradise. With winding beaches and coastlines, kayaking and cabins, it’ll be hard to find time to put your camera down. If you’re a drone photographer, this destination should be a ‘must shoot’ item on your Cape Breton Island adventure.

7. Gypsum Mines Quarry & Trail

The Gypsum Mines Quarry & Trail has been on every Atlantic Coast photographer’s shot list for the last few years. Its popularity has skyrocketed since 2017 and is an essential photo to have on any trip to Cape Breton Island.

8. Cape Mabou Highlands Hiking Trails

Need a location to photograph an epic sunset? Well, the Cape Mabou Highlands Hiking Trails is the spot for you. The view of the rugged coastline with the setting sun will be sure to make your followers jealous. This view is worth the short but steep climb! Be sure to take notice that there’s a whole network of trails that make up the Cape Mabou Hiking Trails and each is worth exploring.

9. Dingwall Beach

Dingwall Beach is located just off the Cabot Trail and is a perfect backdrop for beach lovers everywhere. The beach stretches out along the ocean, creating a small bay with saltwater on one side and ocean access on the other. The beach goes for about a mile and makes for a great walk or photoshoot location.

10. Cape Clear

This hidden gem of a location has been one of Cape Breton Island’s best-kept secrets until now. The vista looks out over the Margaree River and the Cape Breton highlands. It’s a great location for landscape photographers and is an ideal location for sunsets. In fact, it’s also a great place to see the sunrise too! This location may be a bit tricky to find, but if you find it, you’ll be happy you did!