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Highlands Hostel: Your Perfect Base Camp to Explore Cape Breton Highlands National Park

If you're planning an unforgettable adventure in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, look no further than Highlands Hostel as your base camp. Nestled at the top of Cape Breton Island, this charming and affordable accommodation offers the perfect blend of comfort, community, and convenience, making it an ideal starting point for your outdoor excursions.

Why Choose Highlands Hostel?

Highlands Hostel is strategically located in the picturesque village of Cape North, just minutes from some of the park’s most famous trails and breathtaking viewpoints. Whether you're an avid hiker, a nature enthusiast, or a road tripper looking for a cozy and budget-friendly stay, this hostel provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere that enhances your experience in Cape Breton.

Explore the Best Hiking Trails Nearby

One of the biggest perks of staying at Highlands Hostel is its proximity to some of the most stunning hiking trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. We have over 31 world class hiking trails within an hour of the hostel, some 10 to 15 minutes away Here are a few must-visit trails:

• Skyline Trail – This iconic trail offers panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and is famous for its sunset vistas and moose sightings.
• Franey Trail – A challenging but rewarding hike leading to breathtaking mountain-top views.
• Middle Head Trail – A scenic coastal hike with dramatic ocean cliffs and a chance to spot seabirds and whales.
• Meat Cove Trail – Located at the northernmost tip of Cape Breton, this trail boasts rugged landscapes and spectacular ocean views.

Endless Outdoor Adventures Await

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is not just about hiking—it’s an outdoor lover’s paradise. From your base at Highlands Hostel, you can easily enjoy:

• Wildlife Watching – Spot moose, bald eagles, whales, and black bears in their natural habitat.
• Kayaking & Canoeing – Paddle through scenic coastal waters and serene inland lakes.
• Cycling & Biking – Take on the famous Cabot Trail, one of the most scenic drives in the world, perfect for cyclists seeking breathtaking views.
• Fishing & Swimming – Relax by freshwater lakes or the Atlantic coastline.

Affordable and Comfortable Accommodation

Highlands Hostel offers budget-friendly lodging with a cozy and communal vibe. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, you’ll enjoy:

• Comfortable bunk beds and a private room
• A fully equipped kitchen for cooking your own meals
• Free Wi-Fi and communal spaces for socializing
• A warm and welcoming atmosphere that makes you feel at home

The Perfect Stop for Road Trippers

If you're traveling along the Cabot Trail, Highlands Hostel is an excellent stopover. Enjoy a restful night before setting off to explore the scenic drives, historic sites, and charming coastal villages that make Cape Breton one of Canada’s top destinations.

Book Your Stay at Highlands Hostel Today!

For adventurers seeking an affordable, comfortable, and convenient place to stay, Highlands Hostel is the ultimate base camp for exploring Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Book your stay today and experience the magic of Cape Breton like never before!

Plan Your Daily Hiking Adventures in Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Looking to explore the breathtaking landscapes of Cape Breton Highlands National Park? Let us help you plan your daily hiking activities with a well-structured daily planner designed for adventure seekers.

With its rugged coastline, lush forests, and scenic mountain trails, Cape Breton Highlands offers an unforgettable hiking experience. Our customized daily planner ensures you make the most of your time by organizing your hikes based on difficulty, duration, and scenic highlights. Whether you’re trekking the famous Skyline Trail for panoramic ocean views or exploring the serene beauty of the Acadian Trail, we help you optimize your route for a seamless adventure.

Stay on track with our expert recommendations on trail conditions, must-see spots, and ideal rest stops. With a well-planned itinerary, you can focus on the journey, capture stunning views, and experience the true essence of nature without the stress of last-minute planning.

Start your Cape Breton Highlands hiking adventure today with our daily planner,we will pin all these activities to your phone and enjoy a worry-free, well-organized outdoor experience. Let nature guide your steps while we take care of the details!

Cape Breton Highlands National Park's hiking trails range from easy strolls to challenging climbs with panoramic views of canyons, highlands and seacoasts. The trails provide a chance to intimately explore the complex habitat of northern Cape Breton Island. Nature doesn't end at the park's boundaries. Many surrounding areas boast equally breathtaking trails.

All these trails are right on our hostels back and front door step.

Hiking Trails outside the national park

Trails Less Traveled

For those hikers that enjoy less populated trails off the beaten path; these are some of their favorites.  These trails are not part of the national park circuit but are well worth it if you enjoy moderate to challenging remote hiking with some good grade ascents and descents and spectacular views.  These trails are not recommended for beginner hikers or young children. Note: many of these trails do not have cell service.  These areas are the home to bears, coyotes, and moose so hike prepared

Remember that you are hiking in a protected wilderness environment.

• Do not approach, disturb or feed wild animals.
• When driving the trail in the fall (Late September to Mid October) look out for animals on the road, there will be more young juveniles not used to traffic, plus animals foraging for winter food and it's rutting season and moose are really protective of their territories and nothing will get in their way to their loved one.
• Hike with friends and a solid walking stick.
• If you choose to walk alone, tell somebody where you are going.
• Pack in, pack out. Littering attracts wildlife and puts you and the animals at risk.
• Stay on boardwalks to protect fragile vegetation.
• Mountain bikes are permitted only where indicated, for public safety and protection of the environment.
• Dress appropriately. Weather may change rapidly on the plateau and along the coast.
• Bring water, especially for longer trails, climbs and open barrens.
• Bring insect repellent. Black flies and mosquitoes are common all summer.