The Cape Smokey lookoff sits at the top of the long climb out of Ingonish on the Cabot Trail. Pull-off parking and a short paved walkway lead to a sweeping view south down the Atlantic coast. From here you can see St. Anns Bay, Englishtown, and on a clear day, all the way to Bird Islands. A favourite photo and rest stop.

What to see

A long view south down the Atlantic coast — Wreck Cove, Skir Dhu, Tarbotvale, and the entrance to St. Anns Bay all visible on a clear day.
The Bird Islands on the horizon, a major seabird breeding colony with razorbills, puffins, and great cormorants.
The toe of Cape Smokey itself, a 366-metre headland thrusting into the Atlantic.
Bald eagles and the occasional whale breaching offshore in summer.
The sweep of the Cabot Trail snaking down the cape into Wreck Cove.

Tips

Best light is mid-morning to early afternoon — the view faces south.
Pair with the Cape Smokey gondola or hiking trail for a more involved visit.
The lookoff is exposed; carry a layer even on warm days.
The pull-off is small — be patient if it's full; people don't linger long.

Park & access

Signed pull-off on the Cabot Trail at the top of the Cape Smokey climb.
Free; no fees or gates.
A short paved walkway leads to the railing — wheelchair-accessible.
Vault toilets nearby at the Cape Smokey provincial park.

Combine it with

The Cape Smokey provincial park trail or the four-season gondola right next door.
Ingonish Beach for a swim after the climb.
A meal at the Coastal Restaurant or a chowder stop in Wreck Cove on the way south.