Skip to main content

Salmon Pools Trail


16648 Cabot Trail, Chéticamp

902-224-2306

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Trip Advisor Rating Based on 2 Reviews

Highlights

Overview

Ideal for a fitness walk or a stroll, this level trail follows the bottom of the Chéticamp river canyon with cliffs almost 400 metres (1300 ft.) high towering above. The First Pool is about 3.6 km up the Chéticamp River. The trail narrows and continues to Chance Pool where polished exposed bedrock makes a great location for a picnic. Walk on through the forest and along the river, past gravel bars interspersed with rapids and deeper pools, for another 600 m where the trail currently ends. Watch for Atlantic salmon in the deeper pools. Mountain bikes are permitted, but there are rough sections. Listen for barred owls at dusk.

Trailhead: At Chéticamp Campground 

Significant Feature: Acadian forest, river canyon

Length: 9.5 km (5.9 mi) return.

Hiking Time: 2.5-3 hours

Elevation: 15–110 m (50–360 ft.)

Suitable for most skill levels. Short climbs. Some rocky sections.

Bicycles are permitted
Trail Rating: Moderate

GPS Co-ordinates for Trailhead (in decimal degrees):
Lat: 46.643298 Long: -60.946835 Open from mid-May to mid-October. A park pass is required for hiking or use of other services in the park; park entry fee applies. Check in at the Parks Canada visitor centres in Chéticamp (16 Visitor Centre Rd., situated on the west side of the park) or in Ingonish (37637 Cabot Trail, on the east side of the park) to obtain passes, information on visitor safety and any other information you may need, including a trail location map. For your comfort and safety:
- Do not approach, disturb or feed wild animals.
- Take along appropriate clothing – rapid weather changes often occur on the plateau or along the coast.
- Carry water with you, especially for longer trails, climbs or open barrens.
- Bring insect repellent as black flies and mosquitoes are common all summer.
- Mountain bikes are permitted only where indicated, for public safety and protection of the environment.
- Stay on designated trails and boardwalks to protect fragile vegetation.
- Do not throw food or scraps along the trails or roads.
- Read "Keep it Wild, Keep it Safe" brochure, available at park visitor centres and on the Parks Canada website.

- Recreational drone use is prohibited within the national park for the safety of wildlife and other visitors.

Nearby Things To Do

Skyline Sunset Hike

Regions: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Cabot Trail

Immerse yourself in the splendour of the sunset as the ocean glistens below. A walk through the boreal forest reveals this panoramic view, o...


46.732479 -60.843475

Bog Trail

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Trip Advisor Rating 36 Reviews

Regions: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Cabot Trail

In keeping with Parks Canada’s mandate to protect the natural environment, a boardwalk keeps your feet dry as you walk while preventin...


46.742 -60.8275

Proud to be Lolas Hookers

Regions: Cabot Trail, Canada’s Musical Coast

Community: Chéticamp & Area

Available are hand made hooked rugs, hooking kits, small and large forms, t-shirts, feather paintings and more! We also take pride in repair...


46.634 -61.0122

Skyline Trail

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Trip Advisor Rating 886 Reviews

Regions: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Cabot Trail

French follows below | Le français suit ci dessous A dramatic headland cliff overlooks the rugged coast from the end of this level trail....


46.7377 -60.8804

Whale Interpretive Centre

TripAdvisor Traveler Rating

Trip Advisor Rating 98 Reviews

Region: Cabot Trail

Community: Pleasant Bay

Open everyday 9-5 June 1 to Oct 15; bus tours welcome anytime; group rates available. The Whale Interpretive Centre is located on the Harbo...


46.8286 -60.7983

Locals Know Blogs