Do You Need Reservations for Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia?

We lived in Cape Breton Island for 1.5 years and have driven around The Cabot Trail several times and will never get tired of it. It is one of the most picturesque road trips in the world. It’s important to come prepared – and we would love to answer your questions regarding reservation requirements.

Don’t have time to read the full article? Check out these helpful links:
👉 Check out the best accommodations for your visit.
👉 Start exploring the best things to do in Cape Breton Island and plan your 1-week itinerary.
👉 Book your flights to Nova Scotia and have your car rental ready.

Are Reservations Required for the Cabot Trail?

The short answer is no, however sections of the road cross into Cape Breton Highlands National Park. If you’re stopping anywhere in the park, you’ll be required to purchase a park pass ($9 for adults).

Park Pass tickets can be bought on either entrance of the park, near either Chéticamp or Ingonish. No need to reserve or purchase in advance.

However, if you are not planning to do any trails, the breathtaking 298 kilometer drive loops around the majority of Cape Breton Island and it is free. No reservations are required, and no toll payments are required anywhere along the road.

If you do not plan to do any trails, you will still make the most of your visit as there are several lookout points you can stop along the way – no hike needed. This is perfect for families with children or family members with limited mobility.

Cabot Trail in Cape Breton island Nova Scotia — One of the stops along the Cabot Trail

HIghlands National Park in Cape Breton Island in the fall — Lookout point in Cabot Trail near Ingonish

Cabot Trail Camping Reservations

If you want to stay along the Cabot Trail that is part of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, reservations are recommended at the various campgrounds. Here is the Parks Canada website for booking your stay directly with the government. Both campsites and cabins are available.

In peak summer travel season, reserving your stays in advance is highly recommended as most spots along the Cabot Trail are booked well in advance.

Other Stays Along the Cabot Trail

Of course there’s plenty of other cabin and campsite options beyond what’s offered by Parks Canada, just not within the park itself. Ingonish, Dingwall and Chéticamp would be the three best options when searching for a place to stay.

Aerial view of Dingwall beach, Cape Breton highlands, Nova Scotia. — Dingwall, Cape Breton

Cheticamp cathedral, Cape Breton Nova Scotia. — Dingwall, Cape Breton

If you are looking for a more scenic vibe, check out Meat Cove, a 40-min drive north of Cabot Trail. You can even stay in the campground and wake up with a stunning view and sound of crashing waves.

Sunset view over the campsite and beach of Meat Cove, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia — *Meat Cove Campground*

Final Thoughts

To summarize, you don’t need a reservation in Cabot Trail unless you are hitting the trails or camping in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. We hope this answers your questions for your trip to Cape Breton Island and we also hope you enjoy your time in this beautiful spot in Canada.

If you’re planning a trip to Cape Breton island, check out our guide to the top 20 Cape Breton destinations, or our suggested 1-week itinerary!

Continuing your trip around Atlantic Canada? Make sure not to miss the our guide to Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park and Gros Morne National Park.