Cape Smokey

Directions
While traveling the Cabot Trail turn at the English town ferry, (located at the base of Kelly's mountain) continue toward Ingonish. At the top of Smokey mountain you will see a sign directing you into the Picnic Park. (The park is located 13 km from the entrance to the Highlands National Park)

Trail Info
Level: 4/5
Type: Coastal, Mountain, Historical
Activities: Picnic area, coastal hike, witness the rebirth of a fire swept forest, view of the Keltic Lodge.
Trail Length: The Cape Smokey trail is 11 km (return).
Facilities: There are picnic tables and outhouses at the parking lot.

Related Info: A few weeks back a mother contacted me about info regarding the Cape Smokey fire - her 9yr old daughter was doing a school project and was having trouble finding info. Quickly realizing there was not much info out there I promised her, on completion, I would post her report for others to learn from.

This trail starts at the Cape Smokey Provincial Park. Smokey is one of the most famous mountains in Cape Breton. As you ascend the steep southern face you will notice the new growth forest on either side of you. This is due to a forest fire that devastated the area in 1968.

Many are happy taking in the view from the nearest picnic table, but if you would like an interesting hike and a view unseen by many, make your way toward the trail head, which starts on the north side of the parking lot.

The first half-hour or so of the trail is all down hill (but you know what that means, it is all up hill on the way back). Climbing up the other side of this valley you will reach open terrain and the sight of the first look off. There are several similar stations along this ridge top, all with spectacular views. On a clear day you may see industrial Cape Breton -Glace Bay, New Waterford, and Sydney Mines- even though they are more than 50 km away.

Continuing through these barrens is a constant reminder of what fire can do to the land that I've learned to admire so much.

Keep your eyes open for moose. Dave and I were fortunate enough to see one the day we hiked Smokey. You will see plenty of their tracks, along with evidence of bobcat and coyote.

The final fifteen minutes descends about 300 feet to a look off over South Bay Ingonish. Although difficult to see the day we were there (due to fog) the look off faces toward the Keltic Lodge (Cape Breton's most famous resort). The lodge is also the starting point of Middle Head trail. If you look beyond the low lands you may even see the fire tower on top of Franey Mountain.

Take some photos, have a snack and rest; the trek back is mostly up hill. Backtrack the way you came, until you come to the parking area, and the welcome sight of our provincial flag perched on the flagpole.