Cabot Trail Bicycle Tour

The Cabot Trail is a must on every cyclist’s dream list of touring routes. Cape Breton Highlands National Park will reveal to you Nova Scotia’s coastal beauty at its best. Discover one of the best cycling routes in North America! With some of the most magnificent scenery on the continent, this is overwhelmingly Atlantic Canada’s most popular bicycle touring route.

Participants will be from a wide background of ages and levels of experience – there’s no pressure. Everyone will cycle in their own style of riding, ranging from sport riders, to “all day dawdlers”.You will be sent a tour booklet giving you details on the tour and offer suggestions on what to bring. When you send in your entry form, you will be sent a tour booklet. It will give you details on this year’s tour and offer suggestions on what to bring. To best prepare you should arrive in Baddeck on Friday. We will send a list of area motels and campgrounds. Riders provide their own camping gear and utensils. There are many restaurants along the trail. Details will be in your tour booklet.

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Saturday, August 31 – Baddeck to Cheticamp 95 km (58 mi.)
Departing the village of Baddeck, we begin our tour with a fairly easy ride. We travel by way of quiet back roads, toward the scenic Margaree Valley, world famous for its salmon. Later in the day, we visit a region of French-speaking Acadian fishing villages. We end our first day at Cheticamp, in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.

Sunday, September 1 – Cheticamp to Ingonish 114 km (69 mi.)This is the most challenging day of our tour. Over 110 kilometers of coastal mountains separate us from our destination campsite. Early in the morning, we meet our first challenge – French Mountain. North Mountain presents another formidable challenge. The downhill runs on both are a worthy reward! There are many enjoyable distractions; Black Brook Beach and waterfalls, whale sightings, deer, moose, panoramic views such as from atop MacKenzie and French Mountains, and many enticing food stops along the way! We’ll celebrate our memorable day of cycling at Ingonish. Our camp will be away from the crowds, in a specially reserved secluded part of the park.

Monday, September 2 – Ingonish to Baddeck 90 km (54 mi.)
Our last day together offers only one major challenge. Smokey Mountain is spectacular, rising sharply from the shore. From its cliffs, you are offered views far out over the Atlantic Ocean. Afterward, we follow Cape Breton Island’s rugged seacoast, to our farewell in Baddeck.

Accommodation – Our trip will be a tent camping adventure. It is possible for a few non-campers to attend. A limited number of Bed and Breakfasts and motels are along our route. If indoor lodgings are from our supported list, we will assist with the transport of their gear to and from our campsites. Due to the popularity of the area, early reservations are strongly recommended. Upon request, a listing of motels and Bed and Breakfasts will be sent with confirmation.

Meals – Saturday and Sunday evening meals are provided. Breakfasts are also included for Sunday and Monday mornings. Saturday breakfast and lunches are each cyclist’s responsibility. There will be places along our route. There is no need to bring any cooking equipment.

Baggage System – Each morning you will bring your baggage to our truck. You are then free to ride at your own pace. Your bags will be waiting for you upon your arrival at the next campground or indoor selection.Tour Support – During the ride, our support vehicle will be at your service if you need a lift or other assistance. Maps and information materials will help guide you along the way.

Preparation and Equipment – With several challenging climbs, circling the Cabot Trail requires a moderate level of fitness. Bicycles must be in good working order. Special attention should be given to brakes and tires; these should be of good quality and well maintained. Gearing of 15 or more speeds is recommended. You will be expected to bring a pump, a spare tube and a repair kit. Organizers reserve the right to prohibit any bicycle considered to be unsafe to operate. The weather is changeable in the highlands; be prepared for cold and wet, as well as hot and dry. Helmets are mandatory by law. Participants must be 18 years or older, unless accompanied by an adult. We will carry whatever you feel you need to enjoy the tour. You must supply your own tent and sleeping bag. We will carry whatever you feel you need to enjoy the tour. For those camping, you must supply your own tent and sleeping bag. We will not subject your gear to weighing scales or bag limits. We ask, however, that you do not overdo things- (please – no TVs  )