About Acadian Trail
Loop trail through Acadian forest with panoramic views of the Chéticamp River valley and Gulf of St. Lawrence. Diverse forest ecosystems with moderate challenge.
Features & Highlights
Detailed Information
The Acadian Trail is an 8.4 km loop in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, climbing 365 metres from the Chéticamp River valley to panoramic viewpoints over the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The trailhead sits directly across from the Chéticamp Visitor Centre, making it one of the most accessible hikes in the park.
Practical Information
Address: The Acadian Trail is located in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, with its trailhead directly across from the Chéticamp Visitor Centre at the park's western entrance.
Hours: The park's visitor centers (Chéticamp and Ingonish) operate mid-May through mid-October. Spring/fall hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; summer hours: 8:30 a.m. to extended evening hours. Trail access is available year-round, but full services are seasonal.
Cost: Daily park entry (2026 rates) is $10.00 for adults, $8.75 for seniors, free for youth (17 and under), and $19.50 for families/groups (up to 7). Seasonal passes are $48.25 for adults, $42.50 for seniors, and $96.75 for families. An annual Discovery Pass (valid at all Parks Canada sites) is $83.50 for adults, $71.50 for seniors, and $167.50 for families.
Trail Details: The 8.4 km (5.2-mile) loop trail is moderate difficulty with a 365-meter (1,200-foot) elevation gain, taking 3-4 hours. Features include forested paths, coastal views, and resting benches. Parking and washrooms are available at the trailhead.
Booking & Accessibility: No advance booking is needed for self-guided hikes (included with park entry). The trail is not wheelchair accessible, but nearby accessible options include Le Buttereau Trail. Visitor centers are wheelchair accessible, and transit services are available with advance reservation.
