About Fishing Cove Trail

Steep descent to a remote coastal cove with backcountry camping options and spectacular ocean views. Features wilderness camping and coastal isolation.

Features & Highlights

🥾 remote cove
🥾 backcountry camping
🥾 coastal isolation
🥾 strenuous climb

Detailed Information

Fishing Cove Trail

Fishing Cove Trail descends through old-growth Acadian forest to one of Cape Breton Highlands National Park's only backcountry campsites on the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The trail drops roughly 300 metres over its 6 km descent to a small cobble beach framed by sea stacks, where the restored Fishing Cove backcountry site offers tent platforms and a food cache. The return climb is the main challenge—budget 2–3 hours uphill. The trailhead is on the Cabot Trail, 26 km north of Chéticamp.

Practical Information

Location:
Fishing Cove Trail is in Cape Breton Highlands National Park on the Cabot Trail, atop MacKenzie Mountain between Chéticamp and Pleasant Bay. The trailhead is well-marked from the parking area, but note this is a wilderness site with no street address.

Hours & Access:
A Parks Canada entry pass is required year-round. Check in at the Chéticamp Visitor Centre (16 Visitor Centre Rd.) or Ingonish Visitor Centre (37637 Cabot Trail) for permits. Visitor Centre hours:

  • Spring/Fall: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
  • Summer: 8:30 AM–7:00 PM

Open mid-May to mid-October.

Reservations & Permits:
Fishing Cove is the park's only backcountry camping area. Reservations are mandatory via the Parks Canada Reservation System. After booking, obtain your permit in person at a visitor center or by calling 902-224-2306. All 8 campsites are reservable through the Parks Canada reservation system.

Cost:
Park entry fees apply year-round. The Canada Strong Pass offers free admission June 19-September 7, 2026; youth 17 and under are always free per Parks Canada policy. Backcountry camping is $15.00/person/night (plus park entry fees).

Essentials:

  • No cell service or amenities; pack in/out all supplies.
  • Trail: 12 km round trip, 355m elevation change, strenuous difficulty.
  • Campsite features: grassy hillside, cobblestone beach, and river access.

Fishing Cove Trail delivers exactly what adventurous hikers seek: a challenging wilderness experience with spectacular coastal rewards. While the steep 12-kilometer round trip requires proper preparation and physical fitness, the payoff of camping in Cape Breton's only designated backcountry site makes the effort worthwhile. This trail is ideal for experienced hikers who appreciate true solitude, stunning ocean vistas, and the satisfaction of earning their wilderness escape. Despite some logistical challenges with the reservation system and the need for complete self-sufficiency, visitors consistently agree that the pristine coastal setting and sense of accomplishment make Fishing Cove one of Nova Scotia's most memorable outdoor adventures.