Cape Breton Highlands National Park
Nova Scotia
•Est. 1936
Area
948 km² (366 sq mi)
Natural Region
Maritime Acadian Highlands
Annual Visitors
277,203
Established
1936
About the Park
Cape Breton Highlands National Park is characterized by its steep cliffs, deep river canyons, and panoramic ocean views. The Cabot Trail, a scenic roadway, runs through the park.
Park Location
History
Established in 1936 as the first national park in the Atlantic provinces, it was created to protect the highland plateau and coastal regions of northern Cape Breton Island.
Landscapes
The park encompasses a mix of Acadian, Boreal, and Taiga habitats, featuring mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and rugged coastlines.
Wildlife
Home to moose, black bears, bald eagles, and the endangered Canada lynx.
Activities
Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, golfing, and scenic drives. The Skyline Trail offers stunning views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
June–mid-October for hiking, wildlife, and scenic drives; especially late September–early October for fall colours.
Nearby Towns/Cities
Ingonish, Chéticamp, Pleasant Bay, Baddeck.
Facilities
Two visitor centres (Ingonish and Chéticamp), campgrounds, oTENTiks, cabins, washrooms, picnic areas.
Services
Guided walks and programs in summer, interpretive exhibits, swimming pools, food services, local outfitters, fishing permits.
Top Highlights
Skyline Trail, Cabot Trail scenic drive, Ingonish Beach, Freshwater Lake, French Mountain, whale watching, hiking, waterfalls.
Scenic Drives
Cabot Trail (entire loop tours park and Cape Breton Island).
How to Get There
By car from Sydney (2hrs), Halifax (5hrs); nearest airport: Sydney (YQY).
Parking
Free parking at visitor centres, major trailheads, beaches, and campgrounds.
Park Features
Natural Beauty
Pristine Wilderness
Wildlife
Native Species
Activities
Outdoor Adventures
Scenic Views
Photo Opportunities
Similar National Parks You Might Enjoy
Discover more natural wonders like Cape Breton Highlands National Park. These parks share similar features, landscapes, or geographical locations that you might find interesting.
Fundy National Park
Location
New Brunswick
Established
10 April 1948
Area
207 km² (80 sq mi)
Annual Visitors
303,575
Fundy National Park is renowned for having the world's highest tides, reaching up to 12 meters or more. Located along the Bay of Fundy, the park features rugged coastline, dense Acadian forests, over 25 waterfalls, and a diverse ecosystem. Visitors can explore the ocean floor at low tide and enjoy various outdoor activities.
La Mauricie National Park
Location
Quebec
Established
22 August 1970
Area
536 km² (207 sq mi)
Annual Visitors
278,923
Located north of Shawinigan, and between Saint-Maurice River, Matawin River, and Mastigouche Wildlife Reserve, the park features a canoe camping circuit and habitat for the wood turtle.
Kejimkujik National Park
Location
Nova Scotia
Established
1967
Area
404 km² (156 sq mi)
Annual Visitors
75,284
Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site is unique for its dual designation, preserving both natural landscapes and cultural heritage. The park features inland forests, lakes, rivers, and a separate seaside adjunct with coastal ecosystems.