Skyline Trail

Highlights

Plan ahead

Popular hiking trails, including Skyline and Franey, see many visitors during the summer and fall months and trail parking lots fill up fast. Be #ParkSmart and plan ahead! 

• Trails are busiest between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.
• Have a back-up plan in case the parking lot is full.
• Contact the Cheticamp or Ingonish Visitor Centres to check on parking lot closures. 

Keep it wild, keep it safe

Do you know what to do if you encounter wildlife in the park? Before your next visit, familiarize yourself with moose, bear, and coyote safety. Be respectful and act responsibly.

Overview

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.