Everything you Need to Know about the Skyline Trail

Have you ever seen the famous Cabot Trail from a mountain top or stood on the edge of the world? If not, the Skyline Trail which can be found in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park is the perfect one to showcase our windy roads, our mountains, and the rugged coastline. 

Trail Information

This well-known hike is 6.5 kms return or if you decide to loop, the trail length is 8.2kms. It is mostly gravel with a few boardwalks to make it easier for any level of hikers. It’s a rather level trail with a slight incline which won’t be noticeable until you start hiking back so keep that in mind. Please make note that no dogs or bikes are allowed on this trail.

Wildlife

Our most popular wildlife on the Skyline trail would have to be the moose! You’ll have to keep this in mind when planning your hike, you are more likely to spot a moose if you hike early in the morning before the trail gets busier. If you do spot one you may want to take a photo but please keep your distance, and keep in mind they are wild animals and can be unpredictable. Other wildlife that seen are rabbits, whales, and different species of birds.

What Time of Day Should I Hike?

We always recommend an early morning or an evening hike. During these times you’ll see fewer visitors on the trail plus if doing an evening hike you’ll get to witness our spectacular sunsets over the ocean. If you plan on doing a sunset hike we recommend doing the back trail first and return on the front trail so less time is spent hiking back and please bring a headlamp in case. It is wise not to use the back trail at night unless necessary to lessen the attraction of wildlife.

Best Time to Visit

In the summer the Cabot Trail comes to life with small businesses and tourists exploring every nook and cranny. The summer is by far the busiest time to visit the Skyline trail with upwards of 1,000 visitors on the trail per day, but once you reach the end of the trail and see breathtaking views of the rolling mountains along the highlands we promise you it is worth it.

This being said, the shoulder season sees far less foot traffic starting at the end of October through till May if you want to avoid the crowds. If you plan on coming in the winter where you may only encounter a few hikers, make sure to dress accordingly.

Notes from Parks Canada

Social trails have damaged the fragile ecosystem of this area. The boardwalk is there to protect both you, the visitor, and the special plants and wildlife in the area.

Did you know there’s a fine for entering this restricted area? If you see trails leading off the boardwalk, do not follow them, no matter how enticing they may seem. We all like to blaze our own trail, but for the sake of the environment, your enjoyment, others’ enjoyment, and your wallet, please stick to the boardwalk!

Bearberries are an example of rare plant life around Skyline. It is one of only two places within the Park where they are found.

Tree planting has taken place this year as the first step in a restoration project at Skyline. More ecological restoration will take place this spring. It is imperative now more than ever that everyone pull together and stay on the boardwalk to let nature flourish in this area once again.

The Skyline has become the most iconic trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and we understand why so many people want to visit this special place. But did you know there are 25 other spectacular trails to discover? Share your favourite “trail less-travelled”.