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Today's blog post is brought to you by guest blogger, Destiny Spencer, who is sharing a recent hike to Sugar Loaf Trail.
With National Wildlife Week fast approaching, it's the perfect time to dive into the great outdoors and connect with nature. Just a scenic two-hour drive from our Escape Outdoors store in Cape Breton lies the Wilkie Sugar Loaf Trail, a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.
Trail Details
The Wilkie Sugar Loaf Trail is a 3.2-kilometer out-and-back trail near Sugar Loaf, Nova Scotia. It's considered moderately challenging, taking about 1 hour and 45 minutes to complete. The trail offers a chance to enjoy solitude, especially during quieter times of the day. It's best visited from June through October, but we think it’s great all year round!
Getting There
To access the trail, turn off the Cabot Trail at Cape North Village onto Bay St. Lawrence Road. After about 9.9 kilometers, you'll pass the entrance to Cabot Landing Provincial Park. Continue for another 1 kilometer and look for yellow and blue flagging tape on your left, marking the trailhead. There’s no parking lot, but no worries, you can park on the side of the road.
The Adventure Begins
As you set off on the Wilkie Sugar Loaf Trail, be prepared for a steady uphill climb through dense forests. Though challenging, the trail is well-defined and marked, making it easy to navigate. Along the way, take in the sights and sounds of the wilderness, from towering trees to the gentle rustle of leaves.
Watch this video to get a better idea of just how tough but rewarding this trail is.
Rewarding Views
After about a kilometer and a half of climbing, you'll reach the summit of Wilkie Sugar Loaf Mountain. Here, you'll be treated to spectacular panoramic views. To the south, Aspy Bay stretches out before you, while to the north, you can see Bay St. Lawrence and the open Gulf of St. Lawrence on clear days. It's a breathtaking sight that's well worth the effort.
Here is a video we took from the summit (sorry it's so shaky, we were pretty tired).
National Wildlife Week
As we celebrate National Wildlife Week, it's crucial to remember the importance of conservation. The Wilkie Sugar Loaf Trail is a reminder of the delicate balance between humans and wildlife. By practicing responsible outdoor ethics and supporting conservation efforts, we can ensure that these natural treasures are preserved for generations to come.
That said, there’s no better time to keep your eyes peeled for the fascinating creatures that call this area home than during National Wildlife Week. Keep your camera ready as you spot the animals native to Cape Breton. From red squirrels and snowshoe hares to white-tailed deer, moose, and black bears, you’re sure to spot at least one animal during your hike.
A Day Trip to Remember
After your hike (or before), why not swing by Escape Outdoors to buy new supplies and share stories of your adventure? EO is just a short two-hour drive from the Wilkie Sugar Loaf trail and offers everything you need for your next outdoor excursion, wherever that may be. From high-quality gear to friendly advice, they are there to help you make the most of your wilderness adventures.
So lace up your boots, pack your sense of adventure, and hit the trail. The great outdoors is calling – are you ready to answer?
While you're getting ready to head out, make sure to watch this fun video, showcasing the trail's beauty in the winter!