Freshwater Lake Look-off Trail - Cape Breton Highlands National Park

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

Short but steep, or, steep but short! A picturesque vista unfolds before you: Ingonish Beach, Freshwater Lake, Middle Head and Cape Smokey. If you don’t have time for a longer hike to get a view, then this trail is for you. Children enjoy it also but be careful at the top.

Trailhead: On the Cabot Trail, across from the Park’s Administration Building in Ingonish 

Significant Feature: Atlantic coastline

Length: 0.3 km (0.2 mi) return

Hiking Time: 10 minutes

Elevation: 10 – 45 m (35 – 150 ft.)
Trail Rating: Moderate

GPS Co-ordinates for Trailhead (in decimal degrees):
Lat: 46.646010 Long: -60.402759

Park is open year-round but full visitor services are only available from mid-May until mid-October. A park pass is required all year for hiking or use of other services in the park.  Check in at the Parks Canada Visitor Centres in Chéticamp (16 Visitor Centre Road, just off the Cabot Trail 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.