Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre
Region: Cape Breton’s South Coast
Community: Port Hawkesbury
The Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre is a focal point in the region, serving residents, tourists and the business community. It is a state of th...
Length: 7.5 km (4.7 mi) return
Hiking Time: 2+hr
Type of Trail: crushed stone, natural surface, rock
Uses (no snow): walking, ATVs
Uses (snow): snowshoeing
Facilities: interpretive panels, garbage cans, benches
Dog Use: off-leash permitted
Gov’t Topo Map: 11F11 (Port Hawkesbury)
Rating (1-5): 2
Trailhead GPS Reference: N 45 38 53.4 W 61 24 46.0
Access Information: On the Canso Causeway, turn left (north) immediately after crossing the canal. Park in lot next to trail pavilion. From Port Hastings, turn right just before the steel truss swing bridge.
Introduction: The Inverness and Richmond Railway Company was incorporated in 1887 to construct a railway from the district of Margaree to Mabou, and Port Hood, and Port Hawkesbury, with a branch to Whycocomagh. In the end, they developed a route from Port Hastings to Inverness, the first train running in 1901. Following financial problems, the line was leased to Canadian National from Feb, 1, 1924 until they purchased it in 1929. CN operated the line until the late 1980s, when its biggest customer, the Evans Coal Mine in Inverness, was shut down due to flooding.
Although it is part of the much longer Celtic Shores Coastal Trail, Ghost Beach is more like its own separate trail, because it cannot be biked. Its setting in the Strait of Canso so close to the causeway and all its human activity gives it the feel of a walk in a city park until the wind howls down and dashes waves completely over the narrow land bridge that is your route. Despite its proximity to these busy communities, it can have the feel of a challenging hike. When a rain or snow squall descends, which happens often in the shoulder seasons, the exterior world disappears and it is easy to imagine that you are trekking on the edge of the earth.
It is exhilarating, and if you are lucky enough to have a pod of pilot whales cruise past at the same time: unforgettable.
Cautionary Notes: High winds and waves.
Ratings are designated from 1 to 5 indicating suitability for all fitness and experience levels, with 5 being suitable only for experienced and very fit outdoor people. Novices should only choose level 1 and 2 hikes, and work their way up. Level 4 and 5 hikes have indicators associated with their ratings.
Region: Cape Breton’s South Coast
Community: Port Hawkesbury
The Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre is a focal point in the region, serving residents, tourists and the business community. It is a state of th...
Region: Cape Breton’s South Coast
Community: Port Hawkesbury
Dance Club 1 (6-8 years) Wednesdays: 3:30-4:30pm beginning February 3, Port Hawkesbury Civic Centre Combining the elements of jazz, lyrical,...
Region: Cape Breton’s South Coast
Community: Port Hawkesbury
Equipment Loan Program The Town of Port Hawkesbury is inviting residents to stay active and have fun with our free equipment loan program. ...
Region: Cape Breton’s South Coast
Community: Port Hawkesbury
Parent & Tot Skating Monday to Friday • 10:00am – 11:00am • Fee: $2 Public Skating (Free) Saturdays 11:00am – 12:30pm Senior/Adu...
Region: Cape Breton’s South Coast
Community: Port Hawkesbury
Daytime Water Exercise Exercise against the resistance of the water. This workout is refreshing and enjoyable. Time: Tuesday & Thursday ...
Region: Cape Breton’s South Coast
Community: Port Hawkesbury
Music class for babies ages 0-24 months, and 2-4 years to focus on early childhood development through music education. Parents are required...
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