Visiting northern Cape Breton is about to get even better. The province is investing $6.4 million for a new coastal hiking trail north of the Cabot Trail, within the Polletts Cove-Aspy Fault Wilderness Area
The nearly 50km Seawall Trail will include huts and bridges, as well as engagement with local Mi’kmaw communities in the tradition district of Unama’kik (Cape Breton).
“The Seawall Trail has the potential to become one of North America’s iconic wilderness attractions for world travellers,” said Allan MacMaster, Minister of Finance and Treasury Board and MLA for Inverness, on behalf of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage Minister Pat Dunn. “It is an investment that will allow visitors to experience coastal scenic beauty now and forever.”
Led by the County of Inverness, the project will have options for visitors to do multi-day or shorter wilderness hikes, including opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
“Inverness County has established itself as a world-class destination for those who love our exceptional landscapes and access to pristine wilderness. Today’s announcement will bring joy to the local communities that have actively worked to promote this project for several years. It will also bring employment opportunities to this part of the county over the coming years and provide a significant pull for our thriving tourism industry for generations to come,” said Bonny MacIsaac, Warden, Municipality of the County of Inverness.
“The Seawall Trail Society’s principle of respecting both local values and Mi’kmaw traditions has shaped an outstanding trail plan. As we move towards construction, we must focus on the trail plan to ensure we stay centered on our values and traditions,” said Ray Fraser, Chair, Seawall Trail Society.
Facts:
— a project steering committee, co-chaired by the municipality and Seawall Trail Society, will provide guidance as the project progresses
— the society was formed in 2014 to develop northern Cape Breton’s natural walking assets
— Build Nova Scotia will provide project management and administration services to the municipality for design and construction of the trail; the municipality will work with the society and Build Nova Scotia to support community engagement and ongoing project communications
— Unama’kik includes the First Nations communities of We’koqma’q, Wagmatcook, Eskasoni, Membertou and Potlotek
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