On our last day in Cape Breton, we took two hikes along the Atlantic Coast, where the waves are more powerful and the seascapes are more dramatic. The first was the Middle Head Trail, which extends eastward along a peninsula, east of the Keltic Resort and north of Cape Smokey.
This undulating trail offers multiple views across the bays to its north and south and culminates at a rocky overlook (photo). A popular hike, especially for patrons of the resort, it is not ideal for those seeking solitude. Nevertheless, this trail officially lies within the boundary of the National Park.
Our second hike was along the Coastal Trail of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, which leads out to spectacular rock formations, molded by the relentless force of the sea (photo). At one location, the power of rushing water has carved a deep, narrow canyon into the coastal cliffs.
Both trails offer excellent vantage points for whale watching (though not successful today) and for watching sea birds; northern gannets and cormorants were abundant and we also observed a few common loons. Tomorrow we head south to Halifax, where we will spend the next two days.
