Well, we are deep into winter now, and our fall trip to Cape Breton seems like an eternity ago. But with the hordes of cars and summer heat in our distant memory, Islanders recover from yet another winter storm. That might be bad news for those who have to shovel but we know that for many of our readers, this piques their interest in getting to Cape Breton to experience the snow firsthand and many of the area’s accommodation providers and restaurants on and around the Cabot Trail remained open this winter and are ready to greet you.
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In colder winter months, deserted beaches, with huge storm waves pounding the coastline, are calling you. Cape Breton’s gorgeous rolling hills are now blanketed with fresh, powdery snow awaiting your arrival. Now, pair this with an outdoor hot tub overlooking the open Atlantic and amazing scenery with some amazing local food and beverages, and you have the makings of a romantic winter getaway. With March break just around the corner, it is a fantastic family adventure that the whole family will enjoy, especially at off-season rates!
These are our Top Winter Activities, and there are many more to enjoy. We guarantee you can find something to meet your needs and adventure level in Cape Breton.
SNOWMOBILING
For adrenaline seekers, one of the most popular winter activities by far on Cape Breton Island is snowmobiling, or what true aficionados call “sledding”. We apologize to all the dog sleds and huskies everywhere. Regardless of what you call it, Cape Breton Island’s extensive snowmobiling network is unbeatable, with hundreds of kilometres of groomed trails that take you through snowy forests, over frozen lakes, and along mountain ridges. These trails provide stunning views along your exhilarating journey through expansive trails, with convenient rest stops, drive-up eateries, and cozy accommodations. Snowmobiling combines thrilling speed with breathtaking scenery, making it a top winter attraction on Cape Breton Island.
The Highlands in Cape Breton are ground zero for some of the most dramatic sledding in Atlantic Canada. Though Cape Breton Highland National Park is off-limits to any motorized recreation vehicles, there are ample opportunities to access the Highlands from several points along the Cabot Trail. However, in saying that, the two main entry points are the Middle River area, about 15 minutes north of Baddeck, and the Margaree Valley, about 45 minutes past Middle River. The Margaree Valley is truly a mecca for sledders, with ready access to dozens of trails that traverse the whole of the Highlands and take you right up to the edge of the National Park, offering amazing views of the forests, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, beaches, and more. Plus, historic sites, encounter wildlife and discover hidden gems along the way.
Don’t have a sled of your own, well you’re in luck as TNT Outdoor Adventure offers guided side-by-sides tours and snowmobile tour rental packages for outdoor adventure suitable for all skill levels on Cape Breton’s backcountry trails, so you can explore some of the most rugged and beautiful terrains the island has to offer. Plus, their friendly, knowledgeable guides are ready to show you the best of Cape Breton’s back-country trails, making your trip an experience you’ll never forget!
ALPINE SKIING & SNOWBOARDING
For those who crave the rush to hit the hills, speed down the slopes, and run the moguls with some downhill skiing, then Cape Smokey and Ski Ben Eoin are must-visit Cape Breton winter adventure destinations.
Skiing Cape Smokey will give you the highest vertical in Atlantic Canada, at a thousand feet. With the only ski gondola in Atlantic Canada, it gives you quick and easy access to tonnes of exciting and varied terrain. Fifteen runs and over ten kilometers of ski-able terrain waits for you in Ingonish. Also, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that The Slope Bar and Grill at Cape Smokey is a great location for all your après-ski food and beverage needs.
Both ski hills feature runs for all levels, from gentle beginner slopes to thrilling advanced trails. Snowboarding and tubing are also available, making it a fantastic spot for winter fun. After a day on the slopes, unwind in the cozy chalet with a hot drink by the fire.
NORDIC SKIING
Cross-country skiing enthusiasts will love Cape Breton’s Nordic trails. The North Highlands Nordic Ski Club in Cape North, Ski Tuonela, Baddeck Nordic Club, and Ski Ben Eoin all offer groomed trails for beginners and seasoned skiers.
Embark on an exhilarating Nordic skiing adventure across four premier cross-country ski facilities, boasting hundreds of trails waiting to be discovered. Glide gracefully around stunning sea vistas and traverse scenic golf courses, snow-covered woodlands, and open meadows while enjoying the crisp winter air, or explore the Acadian Trail, where panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence are even more magical with snow.
If you are looking to push your Nordic skiing limits, then the exclusive-serviced Telemark Hill is the destination for you, as it is the only one of its kind in the Maritimes.
SNOWSHOEING
Cape Breton Island boasts incredible snowshoeing trails for all skill levels. Explore the Acadian Trail, where panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence are even more magical with snow. For a quieter outing, head to East Bay Hills, where trails wind through serene woods.
Snowshoeing is a peaceful way to immerse yourself in the Island’s pristine winter landscapes and explore winding trails, rugged headlands, ice-covered waterfalls, and serene woods, immersing yourself in every inch of this winter wonderland and offering a unique perspective of the Island’s beauty.
BEACHES & COASTAL BEAUTY
While beaches are often associated with summer, Cape Breton Island’s coastlines are equally stunning in winter. Inverness Beach and Ingonish Beach become serene, snow-covered landscapes where you can stroll, take photos, relax, and soak in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean framed by ice and snow. These peaceful coastal settings are perfect for mental health and wellness as a reflective winter escape.
CHASING FROZEN WATERFALLS
Winter in Cape Breton turns its waterfalls into natural ice sculptures. Popular spots like Egypt Falls, a 1.8-km (1.1 mi) out-and-back trail near Scotsville, Nova Scotia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 42 min to complete. This is a very popular area for snowshoeing and hiking, so you’ll likely encounter other people while exploring.
Beulach Ban Falls is one of the most popular four-season waterfalls destinations on the Cabot Trail. The waterfall is located approximately 10 minutes west of the community of Cape North. It is a 4km (2.5 mi) snowshoe return. It is a moderate snowshoe allowing you to see the plateau of the Highlands and the Aspy River along the way.
Humes River Falls, a 9.8-km (6.1 mi) out-and-back trail near Saint Patricks Channel, Nova Scotia. Generally considered a moderately challenging route, it takes an average of 2 h 45 min to complete. This trail offers exceptional scenic areas of steep river canyons, hardwood forests, highland barrens, and a magnificent 18.29 metres (60 ft) waterfall! It encompasses one of the last relatively large tracts of intact Acadian forests in the Bras d’Or Lake watershed. This trail is guaranteed to send you into a Cape Breton Winter Wonderland.
Snowshoeing your way through these trails to view these icy marvels is an outdoor enthusiast must-do Cape Breton winter experience.
HISTORICAL SITES IN WINTER
Cape Breton Island’s historical landmarks take on a unique charm in winter. Visiting the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, where snow-covered ramparts and icy harbours transport you to another era.
Many historic sites, including the Highland Village Museum, also host winter events or offer self-guided tours, allowing visitors to connect with the Island’s rich history in a serene winter setting.
WINTER RETREATS & GETAWAYS
No winter adventure is complete without cozying up afterward to experience the warmth of Cape Breton’s hospitality after a day of exploring the island amidst the cold of winter. Cape Breton Island has plenty of winter-friendly accommodations, offering everything from charming inns and rustic cabins to 5-star luxury chalets and cabins with fireplaces, saunas, and hot tubs. As a bonus, many of these accommodations are close to many snowmobile trails!
Many of these cozy winter getaways offer winter packages, including skiing, guided tours, spa treatments, and local cuisine. Be sure to try Cape Breton specialties like seafood chowder or hearty meat pies to warm up after a day of exploring.
Cape Breton Island and the Highlands truly offer something for everyone and every season, and with lots of winter left, it should be on your winter adventure bucket list. You can thank us later.
by Ryan Myson