Skiing Cape Smokey will give you the highest vertical in Atlantic Canada, at a thousand feet
I n colder winter months, deserted beaches, with huge storm waves pounding the coastline, are calling you. Cape Breton’s gorgeous rolling hills are now blanketed with fresh, powdery snow awaiting your arrival. Now, pair this with an outdoor hot tub overlooking the open Atlantic and amazing scenery with some amazing local food and beverages, and you have the makings of a romantic winter getaway. With March break just around the corner, it is a fantastic family adventure that the whole family will enjoy, especially at off- season rates! These are our Top Winter Activities, and there are many more to enjoy. We guarantee you can find something to meet your needs and adventure level in Cape Breton. SNOWMOBILING For adrenaline seekers, one of the most popular winter activities by far on Cape Breton Island is snowmobiling, or what true aficionados call “sledding”. We apologize to all the dog sleds and huskies everywhere. Regardless of what you call it, Cape Breton Island’s extensive snowmobiling network is unbeatable, with hundreds of kilometres of groomed trails that take you through snowy forests, over frozen lakes, and along mountain ridges. These trails provide stunning views along your exhilarating journey through expansive trails, with convenient rest stops, drive-up eateries, and cozy accommodations. Snowmobiling combines thrilling speed with breathtaking scenery, making it a top winter attraction on Cape Breton Island. The Highlands in Cape Breton are ground zero for some of the most dramatic sledding in Atlantic Canada. Though Cape Breton Highland National Park is off-limits to any motorized recreation vehicles, there are ample opportunities to access the Highlands from several points along the Cabot Trail. However, in saying that, the two main entry points are the Middle River area, about 15 minutes north of Baddeck,
and the Margaree Valley, about 45 minutes past Middle River. The Margaree Valley is truly a mecca for sledders, with ready access to dozens of trails that traverse the whole of the Highlands and take you right up to the edge of the National Park, offering amazing views of the forests, mountains, rivers, waterfalls, beaches, and more. Plus, historic sites, encounter wildlife and discover hidden gems along the way. Don’t have a sled of your own, well you’re in luck as TNT Outdoor Adventure offers guided side-by-sides tours and snowmobile tour rental packages for outdoor adventure suitable for all skill levels on Cape Breton’s backcountry trails, so you can explore some of the most rugged and beautiful terrains the island has to offer. Plus, their friendly, knowledgeable guides are ready to show you the best of Cape Breton’s back-country trails, making your trip an experience you’ll never forget!
fun. After a day on the slopes, unwind in the cozy chalet with a hot drink by the fire.
ALPINE SKIING & SNOWBOARDING
For those who crave the rush to hit the hills, speed down the slopes, and run the moguls with some downhill skiing, then Cape Smokey and Ski Ben Eoin are must-visit Cape Breton winter adventure destinations. Skiing Cape Smokey will give you the highest vertical in Atlantic Canada, at a thousand feet. With the only ski gondola in Atlantic Canada, it gives you quick and easy access to tonnes of exciting and varied terrain. Fifteen runs and over ten kilometers of ski-able terrain waits for you in Ingonish. Also, we would be remiss if we didn’t mention that The Slope Bar and Grill at Cape Smokey is a great location for all your après-ski food and beverage needs. Both ski hills feature runs for all levels, from gentle beginner slopes to thrilling advanced trails. Snowboarding and tubing are also available, making it a fantastic spot for winter
NORDIC SKIING Cross-country skiing enthusiasts will love Cape Breton’s Nordic trails. The North Highlands Nordic Ski Club in Cape North, Ski Tuonela, Baddeck Nordic Club, and Ski Ben Eoin all offer groomed trails for beginners and seasoned skiers. Embark on an exhilarating Nordic skiing adventure across four premier cross- country ski facilities, boasting hundreds of trails waiting to be discovered. Glide gracefully around stunning sea vistas and traverse scenic golf courses, snow-covered woodlands, and open meadows while enjoying the crisp winter air, or explore the Acadian Trail, where panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence are even more magical with snow.
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