About Pollett's Cove
Remote coastal wilderness hike leading to a beautiful, secluded cove with wild horses and spectacular coastal scenery. Complete wilderness experience with challenging access.
Features & Highlights
Detailed Information
Located near Pleasant Bay on the coast of Cape Breton Island, Pollett's Cove is one of Nova Scotia's most coveted wilderness destinations. This remote coastal hike combines dramatic Atlantic scenery with the presence of semi-feral horses roaming free across the grassland, and it is reached only by a challenging 13–16 kilometre round-trip trek through the Pollett's Cove–Aspy Fault Wilderness Area. The trail holds a 4.8-star rating from over 600 AllTrails reviews, and the destination is privately owned by a local lottery winner who has kept the land open for public enjoyment.
Practical Information
Location & Access: The trailhead is located near Gampo Abbey in Pleasant Bay, Cape Breton. Use GPS to search for "Gampo Abbey, Pleasant Bay, Nova Scotia" to reach the end of the access road, where informal parking is available. No formal signage marks the start of the trail.
Hours & Accessibility: As a wilderness area, Pollett's Cove is open 24/7 year-round. However, the trail is rated as difficult and is not wheelchair accessible due to steep climbs, slippery rocks, narrow paths, and high winds.
Cost & Booking: There are no fees or tickets required to hike the trail. The land is privately owned but generously open to the public. No reservations or bookings are needed.
Trail Details: The hike is approximately 6-7.25 km one way (12-14.5 km round trip). Plan for about 3 hours to reach the cove and 2 hours to return, or consider an overnight backpacking trip.
Facilities & Amenities: No facilities are available, including restrooms, water, or visitor centers. Primitive camping is permitted with no designated sites, so visitors must be fully self-sufficient and practice Leave No Trace principles.
Safety Notes: The trail is remote with no cell service. Weather can change rapidly, and wildlife such as moose, bears, and wild horses may be present. Carry all necessary water, food, and emergency supplies.
Pollett's Cove rewards prepared hikers with a secluded cove, wild horses grazing near the campsites, and Atlantic sunsets. The trail demands fitness and self-sufficiency, but for experienced backpackers the payoff is one of the most memorable overnights in Eastern Canada.
