Note: Due to COVID-19, the visitor experience at Parks Canada places will be different than it has been in the past. The health and safety of visitors, employees and all Canadians is of the utmost importance.
Parks Canada is asking visitors to comply with recommendations from Nova Scotia public health authorities by wearing a mask in indoor public spaces, and by respecting recommended social distancing measures at all times.
Parks Canada’s network of protected places is large and diverse. Visitor access, services, and even opening dates may vary across Cape Breton Island and Canso depending on local circumstances. Please visit pc.gc.ca/ns and follow Parks Canada’s social media channels for information and updates on the status of all Parks Canada places.
Take in the ocean views at one of Cape Breton Highlands National Park’s most popular beaches bordered by a gentle waterfall. Swim in the ocean or dip your toes in the freshwater brook. Gather with friends and family at the picnic shelter or fire pits on site. Launch an outdoor adventure on one of the hiking trails that connect to the beach, or spend an afternoon at the playground surrounded by nature.
Change houses and washrooms, including one accessible washroom, are available. Park your vehicle in the paved lot north of Black Brook. No lifeguards on duty at this beach.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park’s operating season is from mid-May to mid-October, with full services in July and August. The Cabot Trail is open year round. A park pass is required for use of all services and facilities in the national park, including beaches. Revenues are used to maintain and improve park services.
For more swimming adventures, visit our website.
#KeepitWild
Please be responsible and join with us in caring for our environment. Take your garbage with you, keep wildlife at a safe distance, and stay on designated trails to protect fragile plant life.
Nature, other visitors, and future generations will be thankful for your stewardship.
Regions: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Cabot Trail
Community: Ingonish Beach
As the darkness creeps in, listen for the haunting sounds of the night during the “Lantern Walk through Time” by Freshwater Lake. Or lea...
Region: Cabot Trail
Community: Cape North
North Highlands Nordic Ski Area is located in Cape North, on the north east corner of the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island. There are over ...
Region: Cabot Trail
Community: Cape North
Our region – the northeast Highlands of Cape Breton Island – is a mountainous, rocky one, with harsh weather and many, if small, pockets...
Region: Cabot Trail
Community: Ingonish Beach
The Highland Sitting Room offers a tasteful, sociable atmosphere to unwind with your favourite beverage after a round of golf or day at the ...
Starting next to the ocean, this short, level trail follows the shoreline of a small lake that was once an ocean bay. A side trail (1.6 km r...
Region: Cabot Trail
Community: Ingonish
Short but steep, or, steep but short! A picturesque vista unfolds before you: Ingonish Beach, Freshwater Lake, Middle Head and Cape Smokey. ...
Want to show off your Cape Breton adventure? Read through this blog to find your new favourite instagram hot spot this summer. Trust us, nothing says natural more than a nature photo.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a meal on one of Cape Breton Island's many patios. Whether you're oceanside, beachside, or buried in the mountains you won't regret exploring these patio options.
Keep up with Parks Canada's reopenings. Museum, Attractions, National Parks, and Camping sites will all be opened gradually to ensure the safety of staff and visitors.
Get Your Heart Pumping with these extreme and active adventures! Try your hand at windsurfing, go whale watching, hop on a jet ski, fly in a helicopter, and more.
Just because we're on lockdown doesn't mean we can't be inspired by great places to visit when restrictions are lifted.
Thinking about biking along the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail but unsure what to bring or where to stop? These are some frequently asked questions that may help you with the planning process.
Join us daily for trivia questions with prize gift certificates to some of the best accommodations, restaurants, and experiences on the Island!
Virtually tour 5 of Cape Breton Island's best waterfalls!
3 of Cape Breton Island's museums are here for you to tour virtually from the safety of your own home!
Over the past few years, it’s been great to see so many new businesses open up downtown Sydney, and in this blog, I wanted to share with you my experiences after spending a weekend downtown.
