7 Snowshoe Adventures on Cape Breton Island

Snowshoe your way through the beautiful hills, valleys and mountains of Cape Breton Island. Winter is no time to hibernate, with so many amazing trails to choose from you’ll be way too busy to sleep!

1. Climb Cape Mabou Highlands

Snowshoe your way through some of Cape Breton Island’s amazing coastal scenery. These hills are steeped with as much beauty as they have history. Enjoy some of the best views of Canada’s Musical Coast out there!

2. Louisbourg Oldtown Trail

Enjoy impressive views of the reconstructed Fortress and the Louisbourg Lighthouse as you follow the story of Old Town on this 2 km harbour side trail. Explore the rich history and coastal culture on this trail dedicated to the community of Louisbourg. This family-friendly trail is popular with locals and the perfect spot for a refreshing outdoor trek all year round. Arrive in the early morning to see the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean and watch for deer grazing along the path. In the evening, the dark skies over the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site make this an ideal spot for stargazing and capturing moonlight reflecting off lapping waves.

3. Skyline Trail

Did you know that Skyline Trail is open in the winter too? You’re sure to have the trail to yourself when you venture out for this snowshoe trek. When you arrive at the headland savour a wintry view that few have seen! Keep an eye open for moose and be sure to give them lots of space!

4. Clyburn Valley

Snowshoers will marvel at the spectacular stands of hardwood trees, boulders bigger than cars, old abandoned beaver ponds, meadows, apple trees and even the remains of an old gold mine on the Clyburn Trail. This trail follows the river for most of the way, but you can catch a glimpse of the Cape Breton Highlands Links, as it weaves its way up the valley. This is perfect place for families to get out and trek together!

5. Tenerife Mountain

Known as Theodore Fricker Mountain, this hidden gem takes you up through a beautiful forest then up a steep slope.  You’ll need to take your time in the snow on this one, but it will give you an amazing chance to catch some of the most stunning winter scenery anywhere in the world.

6. North Highlands Nordic

The North Highlands Nordic Ski Club (NHN) was founded in 1977 by a small group of enthusiastic cross-country skiers, who shared a love of winter and of the splendid scenery in the Northeast Highlands Area of Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia. A trail network consists of 12 kms of mechanically-groomed and offers panoramic views of some of Atlantic Canada’s best scenery.

7. Roberts Mountain

Located in Pleasant Bay this short, but highly rewarding snowshoe hike will take your breath away with 360º views of the snowy Cape Breton highlands. This is a 3.9 kilometre out and back trail is one trail that you have to check off your ‘must hike’ list!