Cape Breton’s 48-kilometre wilderness trail targets opening in two years

The Municipality of the County of Inverness has agreements to build and manage the Jajiktek Seawall Trail, which is expected to open in about two years. The route will run from near Red River to Meat Cove in northern Cape Breton.

• Trail: About 48 kilometres, planned as a four-day hike with camping huts at three locations.
• Land: About 42 kilometres will cross the Polletts Cove-Aspy Fault Wilderness Area; the rest crosses lands administered by the Department of Public Works, the Nova Scotia Nature Trust and the Department of National Defence.
• Investment: The Province has invested about $7 million to help design and build the trail and huts.
• Why it matters: The project is intended to protect the area while attracting visitors and creating opportunities for local businesses. A not-for-profit group is being planned to oversee the trail’s long-term operation, maintenance and promotion.