Cape Smokey Provincial Park Trail

Cape Smokey rises straight out of the Atlantic at the north end of St. Anns Bay. The provincial park trail follows the cliff edge for about ten kilometres round trip, with several spectacular overlooks back toward Ingonish. The destination has been transformed in recent years by a four-season ski resort with a sightseeing gondola, a steel suspension bridge, and a panoramic tower. Hikers can still walk the trail for free; the gondola and attractions are ticketed.

What you'll see

• A series of cliff-edge overlooks with sweeping views back toward Ingonish, Middle Head, and the highlands plateau.
• The Cabot Trail snaking up the cape from far below.
• Pilot whales, seals, and seabirds offshore in summer.
• An open ridge with windswept spruce, krummholz, and patches of berry bushes that flare red in autumn.
• The Cape Smokey resort's gondola, suspension bridge, and panoramic tower for those choosing the ticketed experience.

On the trail

• About 10 km return on the cliff trail; shorter out-and-back options possible.
• Footing is uneven — roots, rocks, and exposed bedrock.
• Several cliff edges are unfenced — keep small children close.
• The trail can be soggy after rain; gaiters help.
• Allow three to five hours for the full out-and-back.

What to bring

• Real hiking boots, not runners.
• Wind shell and a warm layer; the cape is exposed.
• Plenty of water — there's no source on the trail.
• Binoculars for whale and seabird spotting.
• A camera with a wide lens for the cliff views.

Park & access

• Provincial park trailhead is right next to the Cape Smokey resort entrance, signed off the Cabot Trail.
• Free day use for hiking; gondola and resort attractions ticketed separately.
• Restrooms at the resort building.
• Open year-round, but the trail is unmaintained in winter.

Combine it with

• The Cape Smokey Lookoff just below the trail for a quick photo stop.
• Ingonish Beach for a swim after the descent.
• The Englishtown Ferry crossing on the way south.