Coastal Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Yesterday we did the Coastal Trail. It's an 11.3 km (7 mile) hike that follows the coast south of Neil's Harbour. It's a decent hike, and we rate it a 7.0 out of 10.

Although it does follow the coast, much of the trail is inland through the forest because the coast is so rocky. Lots of indication of moose in the area, but we didn't see any this particular day.

This map is confusing because they've made it with North facing down, a big mapping no-no. Hey, you government map makers...North is always at the top on a map!

Ruth, on the Coastal Trail

Looking back towards the village of Neil's Harbour

Three sections like this are difficult to walk on, and certainly not for a dog. 

Some beautiful scenery

Half way through the Coastal Trail, another trail meets up with it. The Jigging Cove Brook Trail goes 1.4 kms (0.8 miles) to Jigging Cove Lake. On the way back on the Coast Trail, we decided to do the 2.8 km (1.6 mile) return trip on the trail. It is NOT worth it. We give this trail a 2.0 out of 10. It's a rough trial that leads nowhere, and even the forest scenery is not very nice. A lot of wet boggy sections at this time of year, and a lot of roots and rocks that have you looking at where you're putting your feet most of the time. This sort of trail would be fine if it led to a waterfall, or a view, or a cave, but this trail doesn't go anywhere. Not worth the effort.

On the Jigging Cove Brook Trail.

The Coastal Trail is nice, but the Jigging Cove Brook Trail is not worth the effort.