The Celtic Shores Coastal Trail is a stunning rail trail that traces the western shore of Cape Breton Island from Inverness to Port Hastings, Nova Scotia, Canada. Spanning 92 kilometers, this scenic trail winds along the island’s rugged coastline, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean, sandy beaches, and dramatic cliffs. The trail, which is also known as the Ceilidh Coastal Trail, is perfect for hiking, cycling, wildlife watching, and enjoying nature. It is flat, well signed, and maintained to incredibly high standards, making it accessible for all skill levels. Along the way, visitors can explore charming picturesque villages, long sandy beaches, historical landmarks, and experience the rich Celtic heritage of the region. For us, highlights included listening to live music at the Red Shoe Pub in Mabou, watching the sun set over the Atlantic Ocean, and immersing ourselves in the peaceful tranquility of nature. Whether you’re interested in adventure, history, or simply soaking in breathtaking views, the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail provides a unique and unforgettable experience.

The Celtic Shores Coastal Trail is also part of the 28,000 km long Trans Canada Trail, which connects the the Atlantic, Pacific, and Arctic Oceans. As such, it offers flexibility for hikers and cyclists who wish to undertake longer itineraries or further explore the Maritime Provinces. We walked this trail during our 4-year #Hike4Birds across Canada from Newfoundland to British Columbia. As such, we continued on into mainland Nova Scotia on the Trans Canada Trail after reaching Port Hastings. The Celtic Shores Coastal Trail was one of the easiest and most well maintained coastal paths we hiked during our cross-Canada trip. As a result, it remains one of our favourite sections of the Trans Canada Trail in Atlantic Canada.

Whether you're looking to immerse yourself in nature or learn about the area's history, the Celtic Shores Coastal Trail offers an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike.