Why do you Fall for Cape Breton Island?

Are you looking to visit Cape Breton Island this fall but unsure what to do? Do you want to experience the warm glow of autumn colours as you drive around our beloved Cabot Trail, or feel the cool breeze against your skin as you take your last boat ride of the season? Why not let the experts tell you why they #FallforCapeBreton

Shane Wilkie

Adam Hill

Cape Breton Island absolutely shines in the autumn. This Island makes being a photographer too easy. There’s a great photo just waiting to be taken in every corner of this Island. It’s just all about being in the right place at the right time. I look forward to exploring new areas of the Island this year, areas like Whycocomagh, Mabou and the Bras d’Or Lakes. However, I can’t wait to try and paddle back in Aspy Bay one more time!

Sherin Paul and Sheethal Tom, The Nova Hikers

Cape Breton in the fall is a visual feast, with the landscape bursting into vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows. The crisp autumn air makes outdoor adventures particularly enjoyable. Our favorite hike during this season is the Franey Trail, where you can soak in stunning views of the colorful foliage and surrounding mountains. It’s a rewarding trek that perfectly captures the beauty of fall. Beyond the scenic hikes, fall in Cape Breton is a time for cozy local festivals, traditional music, and hearty food. The Island’s rich cultural experiences complement its stunning natural beauty, creating a wonderfully immersive and memorable season. Whether you’re exploring the Franey Trail or enjoying community events, Cape Breton in the fall offers a unique and enchanting experience.

Mike MacInnis

As somebody who spends most of their free time in the outdoors enjoying what Cape Breton has to offer, the fall season is by far my favorite time of year. With the beauty of the changing leaves and the cool autumn air, it’s the most comfortable and enjoyable time of the year for hiking. It’s not too hot, not too cold it’s usually just right with NO mosquitoes! Then, when the colors really start to peak in October with their reds, yellows, and oranges, that’s when exploring Cape Breton becomes truly magical! There is no place in the world like it.

Ashley George

Why do I fall for fall? Let me tell you, it’s a question that practically answers itself once you’ve laid eyes on the breathtaking beauty of Cape Breton Island during autumn. Picture this: a mesmerizing sea of vivid reds, oranges, and yellows adorning the landscape along the serene Cabot Trail. It’s like nature is painting a masterpiece right before your eyes, with the mighty Atlantic Ocean adding its own enchanting touch.

As the warm days of summer retreat, making way for a leafless winter, fall swoops in with its crisp air and renewed energy. No more swim trunks and sunscreen; it’s time to break out the cozy fall sweaters and wool socks. And let me tell you, there’s something truly magical about hiking along wooded trails while gentle leaves playfully dance around you, encouraging you to pause, soak in the beauty, and just enjoy the moment.

I could go on and on, but you know what? Words can only do so much justice. The real magic lies in experiencing it firsthand. So, why do I fall for fall? Come see for yourself and let Cape Breton Island in the fall cast its spell on you too!

Anna Solomon

It is the rolling hills of untouched colour make Cape Breton so unique in Autumn. As a hiker, I love to know there are certain areas that only wildlife can ever explore. It is wonderful that there is still space for hikers like me to enjoy the colours on the trail while knowing that some areas are just for the moose, eagles, deer, coyotes, etc. Fall colours become extra magical when the views are unbroken by infrastructure, as we have so much space and natural landscape here on Cape Breton.

I’m most looking forward to experiencing the unique accommodations around the island. Anyone can stare out their hotel/motel window for a few, pretty fall colours; but to be out near the water in a dome, experiencing the extra reds of our fall Cape Breton sunsets, and waking up to hike in the early morning with Cape Breton hospitality? That’s an experience no other place can offer me.

Chris van den Berg 

Darlin Geldner

As a foreigner who chose Cape Breton Island as my permanent home, I find myself captivated by its allure every year during Fall. Splashes of red, orange, and gold, creating a kaleidoscope of hues that stretch as far as the eye can see. Something so vibrant and mesmerizing, I’ve never seen anything like it before in my life. My favourite thing to do every Fall is to drive around the Cabot Trail and stop at all of the little artisan shops, restaurants and look-offs along the way. No matter where you go, you’ll be surrounded by the vibrant colours. Truly, Fall on Cape Breton Island is an enchanting embrace of nature’s gifts, making me feel even luckier to call this island my home.