9 March Break Activities in Nova Scotia
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If you love adventure, cozy inns, and playing in the snow, then Ingonish is your ideal winter destination! Located along the world-famous Cabot Trail, you’ll enjoy a variety of mountain view trails, sky to sea skiing, and Atlantic Canada’s only gondola!
Sky to Sea Skiing
Ride Atlantic Canada’s only gondola at Cape Smokey for mountaintop snowshoeing, or downhill skiing and snowboarding. It’s great for all ages and skill levels and you can rent your own equipment. Après ski at the lodge and relax, enjoy snacks, and listen to live music (every Saturday during Après Ski from 3:00 – 6:00pm).
Hike or Snowshoe the Cape Breton Highlands
The renowned Cape Breton Highlands National Park is a must-do for visitors any time of year! Wake up early after a snowfall to experience fresh snow-covered trails. Many trails are great for hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing—depending on what Mother Nature provides. Snowshoe rentals are available at the Ingonish Visitor Centre (email cbinfo@pc.gc.ca at least 24 hours in advance to reserve).
- Hike Middle Head Trail for panoramic views of the ocean, Cape Smokey and Ingonish Beach. This moderate (3.8km) hike is a great way to start or end your day.
- For a day of adventure, head to Franey Trail. This challenging (7.4km) trek up Franey Mountain rewards hikers with 360-degree views of the ocean and entire Clyburn Brook canyon.
- Grab your snowshoes or cross-country skis for an easy (8.1km) trek along the Clyburn Valley Trail. Following the river, you’ll be humbled by the towering rock face of Franey Mountain.
- Starting next to the ocean, the short (1.7km) and level Freshwater Lake Trail follows the shoreline of a small lake and a cobble barrier beach.
- Hugging the shoreline of the park’s largest lake, the easy (4.7km) and level Warren Lake Trail is great for a relaxing woodland adventure.
Skate Under the Stars
Lace up your skates for outdoor rink skating with ocean and mountain views. The Ingonish Outdoor Rink is open daily but ice times are based on weather/conditions, so please check their website before heading over.
Local Flavours
Fuel your day of adventure with a hearty breakfast or homemade snack at Dancing Moose Café. Be sure to try their Dutch Pannekoek—like a pancake, topped with fresh fruit and cream or enjoyed savory with bacon, mushrooms, eggs, and cheese—or your choice of toppings.
When hitting the slopes at Cape Smokey, pick up a picnic to take up the mountain or stop in the lodge for snacks and local drinks. Whether eating in your room or outside on an adventure. Dine-in or take-out at Doucette’s Market & Eatery, specializing in diner favourites. They’re also a one-stop shop for groceries, giftware, and made-to-order cakes.
Unique Accommodations
When surrounded by mountains and ocean, you’re bound to fall in love with the great outdoors! The area’s year-round accommodation owners are just as passionate about the nature around them as they are about welcoming people to experience it.
For fully-equipped cottages with onsite trails and complimentary snowshoes, head to Trailside Accommodations and Outdoor Adventures and Wreck Cove Wilderness Cabins in nearby Wreck Cove. There are also a variety of oceanfront cottages located in the heart of Ingonish with easy access to all the community has to offer. For a unique winter camping experience, check out the glamping pods at The Spruces Accommodations. If you’d rather stay in a cozy inn, head to Castle Rock Country Inn or The Island Inn where a full breakfast is offered onsite.
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