So being perfectly honest I probably have a much different review and experience than what most people will have in this review. Skyline Trail is the most iconic Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. I came here over Christmas when there are probably more Moose than people in the park. There are no services open and its really desolate. So for those of you coming into the park in winter time be prepared. And they do not plow the parking lot. I repeat they do not plow the parking lot. I thought I could go through but the snow was much much deeper than it looked. And I got my SUV stuck for an hour in the middle of nowhere on Christmas with 3 other souls on board. There is cell service out here. And there's also no one that passes by in the winter on a Christmas here. We had to get on our hands and knees and dig our way out. Turned the traction control off and managed to back out. After that we still wanted to go for a hike. So left our car up in the initial staging area where the parking spots say 15minute parking only. We hiked for like 30 minutes and realized how big this Trail head parking really is because we were still within the parking lot. So we ended up getting some exercise in but only ended up getting some parking lot view. But we certainly made memories that will last a life time. But if you do come here in the winter time come ultra prepared. Get a starlink for communication or some form of satellite communication in case you have car problems. Do not go beyond the very first parking lot if there's snow on the ground. And enjoy this nature's paradise. Wintertime in Cape Breton is surreal. read more

Skyline Trail - Skyline Trail Parking Lot. - Parks Near Me - Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

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1 hr & 40 min. Nice hike! Unfortunately it was too foggy to see any kind of a view. Groomed trails! Lovely hike! read more

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A straightforward "hike" (more like a walk really) with some nice peeks of the water and a whole lotta greenery throughout. But then the greenery clears at the end, and the view is absolutely beautiful. The wooden steps at Skyline ground you, but the no-hand-rails are what sweep you off your feet. It seems like you're one with the sky, the water and the mountains, as you walk down the steps, wind whipping you ever so slightly, and end up sitting on a bench to pause and take it all in. We came here pretty early so avoided the crowds, and that's the only way to see this trail, that's the only way to take in all its beauty. Will definitely be back to see Skyline in autumn or during sunset. I know it sounds weird to want to go back to such a straightforward trail. But this particular one is not about the journey, it's about that breathtaking end. read more

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An easy trail with lots of people on it. Spectacular views!!! BUT we were stunned by the amount of garbage on the trail. We filled our backpack and pockets. On top of this we were alarmed at the number of people that do not stay on the trail and boardwalk. We have the privilege to walk through this forest that supports many species of plants and animals, and much of the vegetation holds these highlands together. Please don't be one of these disrespectful, uncaring people. read more

The views on this hike are breath taking once you reach the boardwalk! Before and after the boardwalk there isn't much to see except forest, land and shrubs. But once you reach the boardwalk, it opens up to beautiful views of the surrounding hills, cliffs, valleys and of course the ocean. You're elevated a few hundred metres above the ocean on the side of towering hills so it provides a unique, amazing views. Even the drive to the trail is pretty amazing because you're driving on the side of hills right beside the water. You get to see some amazing views near the water which contrasts view from the Skyline Trail which is way above the waters. We came here in one day straight from Halifax so we drive in total of 9 hours (4.5 hours each way). Not sure if it was worth it but this place does have amazing views and something I've never seen before. read more

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It was ok. A lot of hard work. There's 2 options - go straight and turn around and go back the same way; or a loop. We did the straight line trail. So it's amazing going, but coming back it's a monotonous repetition. The loop was a mile longer, but my group, also, did all the add ons, with the straight path, ie, walk a bit extra and climb a high viewing platform, a bunch of other mini side paths for better views, etc. That added more distance. It made it a tiny bit less than the loop path, with the additions. Everything new was fantastic, but retracing all your steps to return Dragged. Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, and bug-off spray read more

Beautiful trail and would highly recommend. Worth doing the whole thing if you have time/energy but if not then at least get to the boardwalk overlook area. Can be a little crowded but I see why--it's stunning. read more

There are an infinite number of places to visit and things to do on the Cabot Trial. Judging by the number of cars in the parking lot, hiking the Skyline Trail is clearly the most popular attraction. For good reason. It doesn't get better than this. A fantastic hike with a breathtaking ending. Don't miss this one. Keep a look out for the moose. Tip: bathrooms are kind of gross here. Find a better rest stop before you arrive. All the information you need is on the website, copied below for your convenience. From website: "A dramatic headland cliff overlooks the rugged coast from the end of this level trail. You can enjoy an eagle's view of the Cabot Trail as it winds its way down the mountain and vehicles look like toys. Watch for whales in the Gulf of St. Lawrence from the viewing decks. Moose, bald eagles, bears and numerous boreal birds live in this habitat. Be cautious with children around the cliffs and give moose a wide berth. The headland plants are very fragile and easily damaged by trampling, so stay on the boardwalk. Dogs are not permitted here as they disturb wildlife, especially moose and bear. Trailhead: On the Cabot Trail on the top of French Mountain Significant Feature: Headland cliff, ocean Length: (return) 7.5 km (4.7 mi), (loop) 9.2 km (5.7 mi) Hiking Time: 2 - 3 hours Elevation: 290 - 405 m (950 - 1330 ft.) Main trail suitable for most skill levels. Boardwalk with steps at headland. Rugged back loop. GPS Co-ordinates for Trailhead (in decimal degrees): Lat: 46.737691 Long: -60.880377 Open from mid-May until mid-October. A park pass is required all year for hiking or use of other services in the park. Check in at the Parks Canada Visitor Centres in Chéticamp (16648 Cabot Trail, situated on the west side of the park) or in Ingonish (37639 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 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. read more

Beautiful! It is a 4 mile total hike but well worth it. Beautiful views and be ready for the stairs and wind.