Acadian Trail
Regions: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Cabot Trail
Community: Chéticamp & Area
Climb 365 metres above the Chéticamp River for panoramic views of the Acadian coastline, the Chéticamp river valley and the park’s h...
Salmon Pools Trail
Highlights
Due to COVID-19, the visitor experience at Parks Canada-administered places may be different than it has been in the past.
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-administered places.
Overview
Ideal for a fitness walk or a stroll, this level trail follows the bottom of the Chéticamp river canyon with cliffs almost 400 metres (1300 ft.) high towering above. The First Pool is about 3.6 km up the Chéticamp River. The trail narrows and continues to Chance Pool where polished exposed bedrock makes a great location for a picnic. Walk on through the forest and along the river, past gravel bars interspersed with rapids and deeper pools, for another 600 m where the trail currently ends. Watch for Atlantic salmon in the deeper pools. Mountain bikes are permitted, but there are rough sections. Listen for barred owls at dusk.
Trailhead: At Chéticamp Campground
Significant Feature: Acadian forest, river canyon
Length: 9.5 km (5.9 mi) return.
Hiking Time: 2.5-3 hours
Elevation: 15–110 m (50–360 ft.)
Suitable for most skill levels. Short climbs. Some rocky sections.
Bicycles are permitted
Trail Rating: Moderate
Lat: 46.643298 Long: -60.946835 Open from mid-May to 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 designated trails and 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.
- Recreational drone use is prohibited within the national park for the safety of wildlife and other visitors.
Nearby Things To Do
Mr. Chicken
Region: Cabot Trail
Community: Chéticamp & Area
Specializing in chicken, this tasty restaurant won’t disappoint. Open Thursday-Saturday: 11:00pm-7:00pm (Take Out Only) Closed until F...
Harbour Restaurant & Bar
Region: Cabot Trail
Community: Chéticamp & Area
We are a family run company that takes pride in satisfying our local and touring visitors. Our goal is to offer our guests a unique experien...
Centre de la Mi-Carême
Region: Canada’s Musical Coast
Community: Chéticamp & Area
Mi-Carême (Mid-Lent) is a celebration involving masks and disguises. The Centre de la Mi-Carême offers a unique display of locally crafted...
Fishing Cove Trail
Regions: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Cabot Trail
You are 355 metres (1165 feet) above sea level! Hike from the top of the mountain about 6 kilometres down to a small ocean cove and grassy c...
Bog Trail
Regions: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Cabot Trail
In keeping with Parks Canada’s mandate to protect the natural environment, a boardwalk keeps your feet dry as you walk while preventin...
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