Tucked deep in the North River Wilderness Area, this trail leads to Cape Breton’s highest waterfall—North River Falls, a thundering 100-foot drop hidden in the woods. But before the forest reclaimed it, this area was once home to Scottish farming families in the mid-1800s. Along the way, you’ll pass old stone walls and a building foundation—ghosts of homes, fields, and even a schoolhouse that once stood here.
The trail begins gently. From the parking lot, it heads onto an old road, likely the same route local children once walked to school. For the first five kilometres, you’ll follow the North River, with plenty of spots to stop, explore, or dip your hands in the cool water. At one fork, a short path to the left takes you to a salmon pool where you might see fish leaping on a good day. It’s a fine spot to turn back if you’re looking for a short and peaceful walk.
But for those chasing waterfalls, the right-hand path—marked “MacLean’s Farm”—is the way to go. The terrain gets rougher from here: roots, rocks, hills, and narrow crossings are the norm. The final stretch can feel endless, but it’s worth it. As the sound of water grows louder, you’ll know you’re close.
The falls themselves are unforgettable. Set in a steep, forested gorge, North River Falls is one of those places that hushes a crowd. In spring, butterflies dance in the mist. In summer, it’s a cool retreat with natural pools for a brave dip. Just be sure to give yourself enough daylight—the return trip is a long one.
