National Parks and National Historic Sites of Canada in Nova Scotia

Cape Breton Highlands

Cape Breton Highlands National Park of Canada / Cabot Trail (902) 224-2306

© Parks Canada / E. Rooney / 1983

Cape Breton Highlands National Park of Canada protects 950 sq. km (366 sq. mi.) of magnificent highlands and coastal wilderness. The Park is dominated by an elevated, flat-topped plateau deeply cut by river canyons. Some of the most scenic sections of the world-renowned Cabot Trail are located within the Park. Three major forest zones — Acadian, Boreal and Taiga — occur within close proximity here. Wildlife includes moose, coyote, fox, black bear, bald eagles and whales.

Getting There

The Park stretches across the northern tip of Cape Breton Island between the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Atlantic Ocean. Park entrances are located on the Cabot Trail north of Cheticamp and at Ingonish Beach.

Making the Most of Your Visit

Golf the Highlands Links, one of Canada’s top courses. © Parks Canada

• A Park entry permit is required for use of any Park facility, including Cabot Trail sightseeing within the Park, visiting the Keltic Lodge and using / visiting the Highlands Links golf course.
• Plan to spend a minimum of three to four days in northern Cape Breton.
• We recommend touring the National Park and the Cabot Trail in a clockwise direction (entering from Cheticamp) to make full use of the extensive services at the Cheticamp Information Centre. While at the Centre, you can see a bald eagle and coyote up close, make animal tracks in the family corner and visit the nature bookstore.
• Take time to stop at the roadside lookoffs and exhibits along the Cabot Trail. The views are spectacular.
• Check Park bulletin boards or ask staff for information on daily events and current trail and facility conditions.
• Potable water is not available at all facilities. Check with staff.

Hours of Operation

Visitor Centre Hours

The Visitor Centre is a great place to chart your journey with us. Learn more about the park's animal and plant life. Find out what activities are being offered and pick up a map. The Visitor Centre's convenient hours are:

May 17 - June 25: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
June 26 - August 27: 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
August 28 - October 1: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
October 2- October 19: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm

Group Camping
(organized youth groups)

Campgrounds with showers (Robert Brook)

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