Louisbourg Lighthouse 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.

Highlights:

Walk the easy two-kilometre trail, which loops and is either boardwalk or gravel.

Watch for a variety of nature.

Learn along the way with the help of on-site interpretive panels.

View the Fortress of Louisbourg from a different perspective.

Overview

Enjoy an iconic coastal hiking experience at the Lighthouse Trail, located across the harbour from the Fortress of Louisbourg. Known for its spectacular crashing waves and unsurpassed ocean vistas, this trail is not to be missed. Capture an authentic East Coast moment in front of the Louisbourg Lighthouse, located at the trailhead. Families can explore the gentle, 2-kilometre (1.3-mile) looped trail, watching for shorebirds and fishing boats sailing into the harbour. Experienced hikers can follow the rugged shoreline beyond, where the Coastal Connections Trail Association continues to develop the trail.

Contributions made in the donation box at the trailhead directly support the Coastal Connections Trail Association in their efforts to continue the development of the trail. Donation boxes are also located throughout the community of Louisbourg.

To access the trail year-round, follow the “Lighthouse” signs along Havenside Road. The iconic lighthouse is on the site of the first lighthouse in Canada (1734). Interpretive panels share the history of this pivotal spot and highlight the rare plant life and coastal ecology of the area.

Travelling with a beloved pet? Dogs on leash are permitted on the Old Town Trail, the Lighthouse Trail, and at Kennington Cove Beach. Thank you for cleaning up after your pet. Pick up droppings and place them in appropriate refuse containers. 

For your comfort and safety: 

– Do not approach, disturb or feed wild animals. 

– Take along appropriate clothing – rapid weather changes often occur along the coast. 

– Carry water with you.

– 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 on the Parks Canada website.