We are traveling to Cape Breton later this week.

I have read conflicting advice on which direction to go on the trail---Start clockwise or conterclockwise?


Thanks.

Advice?

Either direction is great - no real difference in views; especially if you get out at the lookouts. I "think" this started when the Cabot Trail opened that the best direction to go in was clockwise; not because of the views but because of safety. The road was very narrow so it was recommended to go clockwise to remain close to the mountain and as far away from the cliff as possible. It was considerably more dangerous to be near the cliff and this clockwise view took a life of it's on to be more scenic.

either way is great. the trail is so good, i enjoyed driving the whole length once from cheticamp to igonish. stopped at the sights on the right hand side. then drove the other direction and stopped again at the other sites.

Our BandB hostess had a CD that narrates the clockwise trip with information about history, geology, botany, etc. That's a good reason for going clockwise.
The advantage of going conterclockwise is that most of the scenic pull-outs are on the water side so there are no left turns to parking.
Either way, it is stunning.

Thank you.

Make planning easier for us.

i agree that clockwise is the best way to go, with the sea to your left. That way the driver gets to see the sea while going along. there are lots of places to pull over, too.
have a great trip - it is fantastic!

Hello jimandlinda:

I can not really see any difference other than already noted to have the mountain on your lane [right].

We toured the Cabot Trail one year and the operator went clockwise. Who knows why??

I would suggest you ask some local tour operators which way they travel and why!!

Woodie

Definitely counter-clockwise. I have done it many times over the years. It just "feels better". Start in Baddeck & head toward Ingonish.