5 Hikes to take on this Spring!

There are so many hiking trails with phenomenal views in Cape Breton that it’s difficult to narrow it down to 5.  We wanted to highlight some hikes that are not as well known as Skyline or Franey. This list are some of our favourites.

Blueberry Mountain

This unmarked trail in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park is our all-time favourite, where the climb offers amazing views of mountains, coastline and our famous Cabot Trail.  You can even see the Magdalen Islands on clear days! The trail winds up what was once part of the old Cabot Trail from Cap-Rouge to the Skyline Trail. Be on the watch out for moose as they love it up there as much as we do!  At the top, the mountain is covered in wild blueberries. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic. Make sure you take lots of photos!

Meat Cove Mountain Trail 

Making the drive out to Meat Cove is an adventure on itself as it’s the most northern point of Nova Scotia. It’s one of the steepest trails on the island, so you are sure to get your heart rate up on this one. There are ropes and rebar to aid in the steep sections along the trail; use them to save your knees on the way down. Once you make the quick ascent to the top, you can wander for 2-4 km enjoying the valley, mountain, or ocean views depending on where you look from the summit.

Tenerife 

Tenerife Peak, also known as Theodore Fricker Mountain, ends up on a small rock outcrop that overlooks the Aspy Valley. The trail starts as a gradual climb, but as you get close to the base of the peak the real climb begins. Near the end of the trail be very careful as you’ll need to scramble over large, loose rocks. Keep watch for falling rocks if you are hiking or climbing behind someone. At the first initial clearing your view is of the Aspy Bay, but if you climb a little further you’re treated to an even more magnificent view! There are no trees, so the views will leave you in awe.

Salt Mountain

This short trail was quite the surprise and packed a punch! Located in the Whycocomagh Provincial Park, this trail offers that “wow” panoramic view of the Bras d’Or Lakes.  Be prepared though. This trail may only be 2.5kms return, but the climb is steep to get to the summit. Most hikers will start off on the yellow trail and head up the blue trail to spectacular views.  If you want to add to your challenge you can always add the Scout Trail which will loop you back to the bottom. Proper hiking shoes are a must.

Broad Cove Mountain

Broad Cove Mountain is one of the shorter trails (2.3kms return) in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, but offers exceptional views of the Atlantic coast, Middle Head and Cape Smokey. It’s one of those hidden gems that is often overlooked.  The trail has a good, steep climb, but being a short trail it is appealing to families who want to see its picturesque views. The trail is well maintained and includes stairs in parts to help with the incline sections. Once at the top, the view will not disappoint. Make sure you have a seat in the Red Chair!