Ghost Beach
Length: 7.5 km (4.7 mi) return
Hiking Time: 2+hr
Type of Trail: crushed stone, natural surface, rock
Uses (no snow): walking, ATVs
Uses (snow): snowshoeing
Facilities: interpretive panels, garbage cans, benches
Dog Use: off-leash permitted
Gov't Topo Map: 11F11 (Port Hawkesbury)
Rating (1-5): 2
Trailhead GPS Reference: N 45 38” 53.4’ W 61 24” 46.0’
Access Information:
On the Canso Causeway, turn left (north) immediately after crossing the
canal. Park in lot next to trail pavilion. From Port Hastings, turn
right just before the steel truss swing bridge.
Introduction:
The Inverness and Richmond Railway Company was incorporated in 1887 to
construct a railway from the district of Margaree to Mabou, and Port
Hood, and Port Hawkesbury, with a branch to Whycocomagh. In the end,
they developed a route from Port Hastings to Inverness, the first train
running in 1901. Following financial problems, the line was leased to
Canadian National from Feb, 1, 1924 until they purchased it in 1929. CN
operated the line until the late 1980’s, when its biggest customer, the
Evan’s Coal Mine in Inverness, was shut down due to flooding.
Although
it is part of the much longer Celtic Shores Coastal Trail, Ghost Beach
is more like its own separate trail, because it cannot be biked. Its
setting in the Strait of Canso so close to the causeway and all its
human activity gives it the feel of a walk in a city park – until the
wind howls down and dashes waves completely over the narrow land bridge
that is your route. Despite its proximity to these busy communities, it
can have the feel of a challenging hike. When a rain or snow squall
descends, which happens often in the shoulder seasons, the exterior
world disappears and it is easy to imagine that you are trekking on the
edge of the earth.
It is exhilarating, and if you are lucky enough to have a pod of pilot whales cruise past at the same time: unforgettable.
Cautionary Notes: High winds and waves.
Ratings
are designated from 1 to 5 indicating suitability for all fitness and
experience levels, with 5 being suitable only for experienced and very
fit outdoor people. Novices should only choose level 1 and 2 hikes, and
work their way up. Level 4 and 5 hikes have indicators associated with
their ratings.
Nearby Experiences
-
MacDonald House Museum
East Lake Ainslie, Nova Scotia -
Winter Gear Rentals – Inverness County
Inverness, Nova Scotia -
Port Hood Station Provincial Park
Port Hood, Nova Scotia -
An Drochaid (The Bridge)
Mabou, Nova Scotia -
Doug Fraser Art Gallery and Sculpture Garden
Inverness, Nova Scotia
Places to Stay Nearby
-
Hillcrest Hall Country Inn
Port Hood, Nova Scotia -
Cabot Cape Breton (formerly Cabot Links Resort)
Inverness, Nova Scotia -
12 Mine Road Golf Chalet
Inverness, Nova Scotia -
Chimney Corner Coastal Cottages
Chimney Corner, Nova Scotia -
Cape Breton Sunset Beach Cottage
Port Hood, Nova Scotia