Louisbourg Old Town Trail – Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site

Louisbourg & Area

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Trip Advisor Rating 4.3

Based on 4 Reviews

About

Enjoy impressive views of the reconstructed Fortress and the Louisbourg Lighthouse as you follow the story of Old Town on this 2.25 kilometre (1.4 mile) seaside trail. Explore 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.
Travelling with a beloved pet? Dogs on leash are permitted on the Royal Battery Trail, Old Town Trail, the Lighthouse Trail, and at Kennington Cove Beach. Thank you for cleaning up after your pet. Pick up droppings and place them in appropriate refuse containers. 
Bicycles are not permitted on the Old Town Trail. Parking is available. Open daily.
For your comfort and safety: 
  • Do not approach, disturb or feed wild animals. 
  • Take along appropriate clothing 
  • Rapid weather changes often occur along the coast.
  • Carry water with you.
  • Bring insect repellent as black flies and mosquitoes are common all summer.  
  • Stay on designated trails for your safety and to protect fragile vegetation. 
  • Do not throw food or scraps along the trails or roads. 
  • Read “Keep it Wild, Keep it Safe” brochure, available on the Parks Canada website.

Amenities

  • Family Friendly
  • Leashed Pets Only
  • Parking Available

Locals Know Blog

3 Must-See Cross Country Ski Areas in Cape Breton

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...

3 Minute Read

St. Patrick’s Day on Cape Breton Island:Music, Dancing and Island Cheer

St. Patrick’s Day is the perfect time to experience the music and culture of Cape Breton Island. Across the Island you’ll find ceilidhs, concerts and lively pub celebrations. Fiddle tunes fill the air, friends gather and...

4 Minute Read

The Ultimate 5-Day Fall Cape Breton Road Trip

There are fall drives, and then there's the Cabot Trail in autumn. From late September through October, the 298-kilometre loop around the northern tip of Cape Breton Island turns into one of the most spectacular foliage...

5 Minute Read