Skyline Trail

A dramatic headland cliff overlooks the rugged coast from the end of this level trail. You can enjoy an eagle’s view of the Cabot Trail as it winds its way down the mountain and vehicles look like toys. Watch for whales in the Gulf of St. Lawrence from the viewing decks. Moose, bald eagles, bears and numerous boreal birds live in this habitat. Give moose a wide berth. You are required to stay on the boardwalk. This protects the fragile headland plants that are easily damaged by trampling and you, the visitor, from the dangers of steep cliffs and high winds. Fines may be issued for entering restricted areas. For the safety of visitors and wildlife, dogs are not permitted here. Wildlife like moose and bear become particularly agitated in the presence of dogs. 

Trailhead: On the Cabot Trail on the top of French Mountain 

Significant Feature: Headland cliff, ocean

Length: 6.5 km (4 mi) return; 8.2 km (5.1 mi) loop

Hiking Time: 1.5–3 hours

Elevation: 290–405 m (950–1330 ft.)Main trail suitable for most skill levels. Boardwalk with steps at headland.
Trail Rating: Easy

GPS Co-ordinates for Trailhead (in decimal degrees): Lat: 46.737691 Long: -60.880377

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:

• Stay on boardwalks to protect fragile vegetation.
• Dogs are not permitted on the Skyline Trail as they disturb wildlife, especially moose and bear.
• 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.
• 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.

Skyline Trail parking reservations will be required during the 2026 peak season.

A new parking reservation system will be in place from June 26 to October 25, 2026.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, visitors must plan ahead and secure a parking reservation in advance. Once all parking reservations are booked, there is no access to the trail during that time. Visitors are strongly encouraged to book their parking reservation online or by phone before arriving to guarantee entry and avoid disappointment.

Reservations launch May 6, 2026, at 8 a.m. ET / 9 a.m. AT for Skyline Trail parking, required from June 26 to October 25, 2026.

Plan ahead and secure your spot early!

For more information click here.

When to visit

Visitation is highest on weekends and holidays, and advance planning is strongly recommended. From November to May, parking reservations are not required. This quieter period still offers a rewarding Skyline Trail experience, though visitors should note that services are limited. Visitor services are available from mid-May through October 25, 2026.

What are the time slots?

Regular Parking:

• 8:00 am – 12:00 pm

• 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

• 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm

• 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm

• 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm

• 5:00 pm – 9:00 pm

When booking your parking reservation, you’ll choose from a four-hour window that best fits your schedule. This gives you plenty of time to arrive, prepare, and begin your hike. Visitors may check-in within the first hour into their reserved time slot but should arrive no earlier than 10 minutes before their reservation.

Time slot arrivals help space out visitation throughout the day, creating a more relaxed experience. Parking reservations can be made up until 30 minutes past the start of a time slot.

How to book

There are two ways to reserve your parking spot at the Skyline Trail

• Online

• By telephone: 1-877-737-3783

How to make an online reservation for Skyline Trail parking:

If you have never made a Parks Canada reservation or if you haven’t made a reservation since before March 3, 2023, you’ll need to create a new account. For more information on how to create a Parks Canada Reservation Service account, click here.