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The 10 Prettiest Waterfalls on Cape Breton Island

There are over two dozen well-documented waterfalls on Cape Breton Island, each one with its own distinctive allure. Some Cabot Trail waterfalls are more about the rugged, undeniably serene trip than the destination. Others have the ability to stop you in your tracks upon first sight. Cabot Shores, one of the premier Nova Scotia resorts, happens to be located near Indian Brook Falls, a challenging, yet undeniably reward hike. When you’re not relaxing in a chalet, paddling atop Church Pond, or dining on gourmet cuisine, please accept nature’s invitation into the backcountry en route to a towering, picturesque waterfall.

10 Jaw-Dropping Waterfalls on Cape Breton Island

Indian Brook Falls
Indian Brook (Widow’s Veil Falls)

“Waterfalling” has grown into one of the most desirable recreational activities amongst couples who have a penchant for adventure, spontaneity, and isolation. Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and the isle itself, is home to a bevy of rivers, brooks, and creeks that weave and subtly descend toward the Atlantic Ocean. Slow erosion, over an innumerable amount of time, gave way to these natural wonders. Waterfalling is best combined with hiking, forest bathing, Geocaching, or birding. The journey to many of these waterfalls on Cape Breton Island is exceedingly lengthy; thus, an element of backpacking is often tossed into the fold. Without further ado, here are 10 of the prettiest waterfalls in Nova Scotia:

  1. Indian Brook Falls — A challenging, three-hour hike to the Great Falls from the Cabot Shores. The Brook has three falls, including the prominent Great Falls and Widow’s Veils Falls (as shown on the above). It’s about one hour and a half round trip to Widow’s Veils Falls.
  2. North River Falls — Backpacking at its finest. Mostly flat. It’s just you and nature. What a payoff! There’s also a shorter hike to the falls for those who only want a quick photo or two, and salmon fishing with a license.
  3. Uisge Bàn Falls — A leisurely stroll to a subtly beautiful fall. Uisge peacefully slips down the hill.
  4. Humes River Falls — Not easy to find. At 11.5 kilometres, years of hiking experience is required. Luckily, very few people know about this hidden gem.
  5. Mary Ann Falls — Please drive slowly as several potholes lie on the road to the fall. Mary Ann Falls is an idyllic swimming hole (as pictured above).
  6. Gillis Lake Falls — An easy walk down into a creek. Typically, only locals visit it.
  7. Myles Doyle Falls — This lengthy slide is particularly beautiful during autumn’s peak. Follow the ribbons that mark the path. Boy, it really gushes during spring!
  8. Egypt Falls — The property owners ask that you please be respectful of the land. It is currently not open to the public.
  9. Beulach Ban Falls — A quick roadside stop. The hiking trail that runs past Beulach Ban isn’t overly alluring at its beginning, but the 65-foot-tall falls are exceedingly gorgeous. Later, after visiting the Falls, go to the trail which has good views of the Asby Fault
  10. Still Brook Falls — A quiet place. Remember to pack a picnic. Still Brook flows into Black Brook Cove. Remains a bit of a mystery.

In-depth directions to and from Indian Brook, North River, and Mary Ann can be found on Dr. Paul’s article from January of 2015. For more information about guided and self-guided hikes, please fill out a booking inquiry form.

Mid-summer Cape Breton Getaways: Discover Cabot Shores

Photo of a Yurt near the Best Waterfalls on Cape Breton.

After locating a handful of waterfalls on Cape Breton Island, return to Cabot Shores for a night to remember. This award-winning coastal haven is the digital detox or glamping experience that you’ve been searching for since spring’s thaw. Choose between a chalet, campground, dome camping, yurt, tiny house, classic lodge, or farmhouse. The culinary voyage at Cabot Shores Bistro is also a memorable (and delicious) endeavour. Adventure, exploration, and relaxation is always a stone’s throw away, as is the deep blue sea. Please give us a call today at 866-929-2584 to book a well-deserved Canadian escape to Nova Scotia’s awe-inspiring Cabot Trail. And don’t forget to read the latest news on our website.



Good
Based on 298 reviews
MacKenzie Cutcliffe
MacKenzie Cutcliffe
February 17, 2024.
We had an excellent stay! We stayed in the tiny house and got the hot tub as an addition - the house was an adorable little cabin, very clean and had everything we needed (mini fridge, microwave and more!). The hot tub was worth the addition! Paul and the staff were so considerate, he even called me before we arrived and let me know how the roads were and to make sure I knew how to get to the tiny house since we were probably arriving after dark. I can’t say enough good things! We will definitely be back!
Alexis Helena
Alexis Helena
February 16, 2024.
It was a great space, the manager was very helpful and answered all our questions. Will definitely be coming back
Katie Crossley
Katie Crossley
January 25, 2024.
My husband and I got married at Cabot Shores last October, after staying there multiple times in the past and falling in love with the scenery and food!! Paul was amazing to deal with leading up to the wedding! I was definitely a needy bride lol and he was always so patient and helpful with everything. The whole thing went off without any issues at all and my guests had a great time and raved on and on about the food! We are huge out door people and loved the whole vibe ! We can’t wait to go back again soon and make more wonderful memories at this slice of heaven in our favourite place in the world, Cape Breton !!
‍하준수(교원-영상디자인학과)
‍하준수(교원-영상디자인학과)
January 10, 2024.
An unforgettable experience for a family trip. A yurt experience is more than just lodging, especially if you have young children. What is most impressive of all is the owner and his wife, who are so kind and affectionate.
Karleigh Johnstone
Karleigh Johnstone
January 8, 2024.
Stayed in the Phoenix Dome for 2 nights and had the most wonderful experience. The dome was lovely and stayed warm through the night. The highlight of our stay was the food. My husband has been a chef for 20+ years and was blown away by the quality of the food. We had dinner one evening and the salmon was absolute perfection. We were lucky enough to be the only guests for breakfast so they cooked us a few items instead of the buffet and we enjoyed every bite. Hands down the best scrambled eggs I have ever eaten! The staff were so wonderful, kind and accommodating. We would love to return and spend more time here exploring the trails and relaxing on the beach. Thank you to everyone at Cabot Trail for such a wonderful experience!
Bobbi Zahra
Bobbi Zahra
January 1, 2024.
Hot tubs were great, overlooking the gorgeous water view. Yurt was super comfortable, very spacious, and even when the fire died while we were sleeping, we stayed cozy and warm - the bedding was superb. Recommendation for Red River Trail was great, and we enjoyed the hike very much.
Sandy Mackley
Sandy Mackley
November 27, 2023.
The staff at Cabot Shores actively took opportunities to make our stay relaxing and enjoyable. Our Mongolian Yurt was comfortable with the wood stove and outside hot tub. Would strongly recommend calling these fine folks and discussing your stay with them.

Good
Based on 51 reviews
Lukas
Lukas
September 21, 2022.
Verified
Very nice people and a place full of joy ! Stayed 2 nights in the „Eagle dome“ which was really comfy and clean!Had really delicous dinner at the main lodge where paul played some music just for us and had nice conversations whith him and the other staffmembers.Also booked the hot tub at our dome for our last night from where we had a great view on the campfire.Lovely place where you see how much effort they put in every detail.
Nicole
Nicole
August 22, 2022.
Verified
Amazing adventure! Lots of fun sleeping underneath the stars!
Ryan
Ryan
August 14, 2022.
Verified
Relaxing
Nigel
Nigel
July 25, 2022.
Verified
Beautiful place and very friendly staff. Perfect location if you’re travelling along the Cabot Trail, I highly recommend checking this place out! Would definitely stay here again. Thanks for a fantastic experience.
Anooj
Anooj
October 25, 2021.
Verified
This was our first time staying in the Eagle Dome and we absolutely fell in love with this beautiful place. Super clean place to stay!
Redwan
Redwan
October 17, 2021.
Verified
Very nice place to spend a couple of nights in the nature! My wife and I enjoyed our stay.It might be a good idea to install a heater in the dome as it can get chilly at night.
Brooke
Brooke
October 1, 2021.
Verified
Beautiful, quaint place to stay! So unique and off grid. We loved staying at the dome!
Madison
Madison
September 9, 2021.
Verified
We had a great stay in the Eagle Dome! We loved watching the sunset and sunrise, and being able to hear the waves from the ocean. Next time we would stay a few more days and prepare a bit better - we weren’t packed for off grid but we made it work. Outhouse was a few steps away, shower and toilet a short walk. We didn’t get the hot tub or use the sauna/other amenities but would certainly consider it next time.

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