Clyburn Trail

Highlights

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.

Overview

Hikers will marvel at the spectacular stands of hardwood trees, boulders bigger than cars, old abandoned beaver ponds, meadows, apple trees and even the remains of an old gold mine on the Clyburn Trail. This trail follows the river for most of the way, but you can catch a glimpse of the Cape Breton Highlands Links, as it weaves its way up the valley. Feel humbled by the sheer rock face of Franey Mountain 425 m (1400 ft.) above. This level, easy trail is great for a fitness walk or relaxing stroll. Caution: Mountain bikes are permitted but there are rough sections starting about 2 km in. Not recommended for road bikes.

Trailhead: Just north of the Clyburn River bridge 

Significant Feature: Hardwood valley, river, remains of old gold mine

Length: 8 km (5 mi) return

Hiking Time: 2–3 hours

Elevation: 5–50 m (15–165 ft.)

Relatively level trail. Rough sections where trail floods. Not maintained beyond the gold mine.
Trail Rating: Moderate

GPS Co-ordinates for Trailhead (in decimal degrees):
Lat: 46.660688 Long: -60.410384

Park is open year-round but full visitor services are only
available from mid-May until mid-October. A park pass is required for hiking or use of other services in the park; park entry fee applies. Check in at the Parks Canada visitor centres in Chéticamp (16 Visitor Centre Rd., situated on the west side of the park) or in Ingonish (37637 Cabot Trail, on the east side of the park) to obtain passes, information on visitor safety and any other information you may need, including a trail location map.

For your comfort and safety:
– Do not approach, disturb or feed wild animals.
– Take along appropriate clothing – rapid weather changes often occur on the plateau or along the coast.
– Carry water with you, especially for longer trails, climbs or open barrens.
– Bring insect repellent as black flies and mosquitoes are common all summer.
– Mountain bikes are permitted only where indicated, for public safety and protection of the environment.
– Stay on boardwalks to protect fragile vegetation.
– Do not throw food or scraps along the trails or roads.
– Read “Keep it Wild, Keep it Safe” brochure, available at park visitor centres and on the Parks Canada website.