Coastal Trail

The Coastal Trail follows the Atlantic shoreline through stands of spruce and along headlands of pink granite shaped by centuries of surf. Expect wooden staircases, small coves, and quiet pebble beaches perfect for a picnic. The full out-and-back is around 11 kilometres but most visitors turn back at one of the named coves. Whales, seals, and seabirds are common offshore. Footing is uneven and muddy in shoulder seasons; sturdy boots are recommended.

What you'll see

• Pink granite headlands shaped by surf — Cape Breton's signature coastal geology.
• A series of small coves with cobble beaches, perfect for a picnic.
• Whales (pilot, fin, and minke), seals, and seabirds offshore in summer.
• Old-growth-feeling spruce stands above the surf line.
• Wildflowers in early summer — sea lungwort, beach pea, and beach rose.

On the trail

• Up to 11 km return, but easy to turn back at any of the coves for a shorter outing.
• Wooden staircases, plank boardwalks, and rock-strewn paths.
• Footing is uneven; muddy in spring and after rain.
• Several short climbs over headlands.
• Well-signed at the named coves.

What to bring

• Real hiking shoes or boots — runners get slick on the staircases when wet.
• Layers; the headlands catch ocean wind.
• Picnic supplies — the coves were made for it.
• Binoculars for whale and seabird spotting.
• Bug spray for the sheltered stretches.

Park & access

• Trailhead at Black Brook Beach, signed off the Cabot Trail.
• Parks Canada day pass required.
• Vault toilets at Black Brook.
• Open year-round, though winter is unmaintained.

Combine it with

• A swim at Black Brook Beach before or after.
• Neil's Harbour Lighthouse and chowder up the road.
• Mary Ann Falls a short drive inland.