Discover the Highlands Hostel: Your Year-Round Base Camp for Adventure in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Nestled at the top of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and the Cabot Trail the Highlands Hostel is your perfect year-round getaway, offering adventure, comfort, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you're visiting for the snow-covered slopes in winter or the scenic hiking trails and pristine beaches in summer, our hostel provides an ideal base camp for all your outdoor pursuits.

A Winter Wonderland for Skiers and Snow Enthusiasts

If you're a winter sports enthusiast, Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a hidden gem. The park transforms into a winter wonderland, attracting visitors seeking thrilling downhill skiing, peaceful cross-country routes, snowshoeing through the wilderness, and exhilarating backcountry skiing.

Downhill Skiing Near Highlands Hostel

For those who love the adrenaline rush of downhill skiing, the highlands offer some of the most picturesque slopes. With stunning views of snow-covered peaks and well-groomed runs, at Ski Cape Smokey this region is an excellent alternative to crowded ski resorts. After a long day on the slopes, return to the cozy warmth of Highlands Hostel, where you can relax by the fire and share stories with fellow adventurers.

Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing

If you prefer a slower pace, the park boasts miles of cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. Glide across pristine snowfields or trek through dense, snow-laden forests, experiencing the peaceful solitude of nature. Popular trails for winter exploration include:

• North Highland Nordic: Over 14 km of groomed trails

• Skyline Trail – A breathtaking route offering stunning views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

• Aspy Trail – A more secluded experience, perfect for spotting wildlife.

• Broad Cove Mountain Trail – A rewarding climb leading to a spectacular vantage point.

With countless routes to choose from, you’ll find the perfect winter adventure waiting for you.

Backcountry Skiing for the Ultimate Challenge

For those who crave a true wilderness experience, backcountry skiing in Cape Breton Highlands is second to none. Venture off the beaten path and carve your own tracks through untouched powder. Try our local South Ridge Wilderness Trails.The rugged terrain and remote beauty provide an unparalleled experience for expert skiers. Highlands Hostel is an excellent base for planning your excursions, offering warm accommodations and valuable local insights on the best routes.

Summer Adventures: Hiking, Swimming, and Exploring Nature

As the snow melts and the landscape bursts into vibrant greens, Cape Breton Highlands National Park becomes a paradise for summer adventurers. Whether you're an avid hiker, a beach lover, or someone who simply enjoys immersing in nature, this destination has it all.

Hike World-Class Trails

Home to 35 world-class hiking trails, Cape Breton Highlands offers something for every level of adventurer. Some must-explore trails include:

• Skyline Trail – One of the most iconic hikes, with breathtaking coastal views and a chance to spot moose and bald eagles.

• Franey Trail – A challenging yet rewarding hike with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and rolling highlands.

• Middle Head Trail – A scenic coastal trail perfect for those looking for a moderate, family-friendly hike.

• Fishing Cove Trail – A historic trail leading to a secluded cove with incredible ocean vistas.

No matter your skill level, there's a trail that will leave you in awe of the park's natural beauty.

Swim in Crystal-Clear Waters and Relax on Scenic Beaches

Cape Breton is known for its stunning coastline and numerous beaches and swimming holes where you can unwind after a day of hiking. Some of the top spots to visit include:

• Black Brook Beach – A picturesque spot with waterfalls and rugged cliffs.

• Ingonish Beach – A popular sandy beach, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

• Warren Lake – A freshwater alternative offering calm waters for swimming and paddling.

• Broad Cove Beach – A peaceful retreat surrounded by natural beauty.

Cool off in the refreshing waters of the Atlantic or enjoy a serene lakeside swim before returning to Highlands Hostel for a relaxing evening.

Why Choose Highlands Hostel?

When planning your adventure in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, where you stay makes all the difference. Highlands Hostel offers an affordable, welcoming, and comfortable retreat for travelers of all kinds.

Convenient Location

Our hostel is strategically located near many of the park’s top attractions, making it easy to embark on daily adventures without spending hours in transit. Whether you’re skiing in winter or hiking in summer, you'll always be close to the action.

Cozy and Friendly Atmosphere

Highlands Hostel is more than just a place to sleep, they can accomodate up to 25 with 5 full bathrooms and a large shared kitchen – it’s a community. Travelers from around the world gather here to share experiences, exchange travel tips, and forge lifelong friendships. Our comfortable common areas, well-equipped kitchen, and warm ambiance create the perfect environment for relaxation after a day of outdoor exploration.

Affordable and Comfortable Accommodations

We believe that adventure should be accessible to everyone, which is why we offer budget-friendly accommodations without compromising on comfort. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, you'll find a welcoming space that feels like home.

Expert Local Advice

Our team is passionate about the outdoors and knows the region inside and out. We’re here to help you plan your itinerary, recommend the best trails and beaches, and ensure that you make the most of your visit to Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Plan Your Visit to Highlands Hostel Today!

No matter the season, Highlands Hostel is your go-to base camp for adventure in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Whether you’re carving through fresh powder on the slopes, hiking through breathtaking landscapes, or enjoying a summer swim, we offer the perfect place to rest, recharge, and connect with fellow explorers.

Book your stay today and experience the best that Cape Breton Highlands National Park has to offer. Adventure awaits!

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Follow our adventures on Instagram

Trying to figure out what to do this winter. Take a page out of Davey and Sky's adventures and come skiing

Craving winter adventure and looking for itinerary inspiration? Join outdoor ambassadors @daveyandsky as they embark on an unforgettable getaway to Cape North on Cape Breton Island! ❄️

Their winter fun kicked off with cross-country skiing at @nhn_xcski, which boasts over 10km of groomed trails and both snowshoe and cross-country ski rentals! Afterward, they checked into their adventure base camp for the night at the @highlandshostel, where they relaxed by a wood-burning fire and enjoyed a breathtaking sunset from the bell tower. For dinner, they savoured delicious wood-fired pizzas from @southharbourpines, and before heading home the next day, they went on a snowshoe to MacIntosh Brook Falls in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park!

Cycling the Trail

Then make us one of your stops

Aiden and Chandler spent the night with us on a 6 day tour of the Cabot Trail. Well rested,fed and entertained and now ready for the hills to Cheticamp.

Outdoor Shower

After a hard days hiking , cycle ride over the mountains, or swimming at one of our local beaches, we now have an outdoors shower for you to cool off in, be one with nature.

Musically inclined then our Jam room is a must

You may be lucky to enjoy one of our movie nights, by the fire pit or inside

Want some quiet time to reflect and relax then our bell tower or garden hammocks are waiting for you

You want beaches, we are surrounded by them

If you want hiking, we are surrounded by some of the worlds best hiking, just ask Bricin to pin these to your cell phone

Stress relief - By nature.

We truly mean this, everybody is welcome at our family friendly house, backpackers, hikers, bikers, trail bike riders, it is for everybody looking for that place to stay they will call paradise at our Cabot Trail Hostel - The best pace to stay.

If like many you are trying to find a place to unwind and shed the year of stressful city and corporate life, then this is the place.

If you don't go back rejuvenated after a stay with us then we and the beautiful island we live on clearly have not done their job because there is nothing that comes close to the scenery in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, the mountains are beautiful but what makes it even more majestic is on every turn you see the wide-open Atlantic Ocean. The mountains meet the ocean and along with the sound of the surf, it is breathtaking. There are great walking trails, beautiful sandy beaches (Black Brook is one), kayaking, and an unlimited number of outside activities. The towns and fishing villages along its way are unique and picturesque such as Cheticamp, Neil's Harbour and Ingonish. The Cabot Trail winds in and out of the park and it is a breathtaking drive in the fall when the leaves are changing colours.

So come for a stay and leave with memories that will last a lifetime or until your next visit.

Hotel or Hostel

Why pay for a hotel when a hostel offers you much more, you meet a special group of people, who all have special stories to tell of their travels, you will have memories that will last a lifetime.

Fresh Lobsters or snow crab cookout on our local beach

Fresh Lobster or snow crab (In season) beach boil here in the Cape Breton Highlands!!! These four lobsters were just a snack before we cooked six more for dinner!!!

Can you picture yourself here? On the beach or at our fire pit at the church.

Don't worry we will show you how to cook them and eat them.

When booking your bed ask if Lobster or snow crab are available fresh off the boat, you wont regret it.

COME VISIT!!!

Our Winter wonderland, on our back door step

The rich history and breathtaking scenery of the Cabot Trail

The Cabot Trail, named one of the best road trips (185 miles - 298 KM) in the world by Lonely Planet, is a trail that winds through stunning landscapes, along the Margaree River, a Canadian Heritage Salmon River, and through spectacular rugged highlands of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park of Canada.

The history of the Cabot Trail is a long and interesting one. The trail was named after Italian explorer John Cabot (Giovanni Caboto) who reached our shores in 1497, sailing on a mission for King Henry VII of England. The name also celebrates the meeting of Cabot and the Mi'kmaq people, the original inhabitants of Cape Breton Island, at Aspy Bay over 500 years ago.

The Cabot Trail, completed in 1932, joined previously isolated fishing villages along an approximate 300 kilometre loop. Today the Cabot Trail connects eight major communities with intriguing histories, ranging from the Acadian Region to Irish and Scottish settlements. These vibrant communities are gateways to outdoor adventures and cultural festivals. Allow several days to explore and experience this magnificent area.

Summer
The Cabot Trail comes to life in the summer. Playing a round of golf or splashing in the surf, there is something for everyone. Wander the villages, hike the trails, enjoy the festivals and explore the living tradition that is unique to the communities along the Cabot Trail.

A visit to the Cabot Trail is a multi-day (3-5 days) experience.

Enjoy our culture, our music, and countless outdoor activities. Participate in our festivals, our special musical events, the ceilidhs, and kitchen parties that happen all around the Cabot Trail. To replenish yourself, enjoy fabulous local seafood at our great restaurants.

The Highlands Hostel Song

Two years ago Eric Gudmunsen from Scotland, visited our hostel and promised to pen a song for us, well here it is.