STFlips
Site Supporter
Will there be a couple of planned or suggested lookout stops? We've got about 12 hours to get to the ferry by my estimate.
Cabot Trail July 17th 2022. Meet up 9:00AM
- Thread starter kiltman
- Start date
Uncle Phil
Site Supporter
Will the national park pass get you into the provincial parks also?
OP
OP
No.
OP
OP
Yes there will. I will look at a couple.
Are you planning on doing this as a loop going directly up to Cheticamp and around Highlands Park clockwise? I know this puts you on the land side of the highway most of the ride but I've always found the views better in that direction, but it might just be me. In all my trips thru the park I have not made it out to Meat Cove and the "Chowder Hut". Got to one of these days. I do like the fish cakes at "The Rusty Anchor" halfway around the park. I'm always torn between taking the Englishtown ferry as a little diversion getting back on the TCH or riding that last portion of the trail which is not bad at all The middle ST1100 may be familiar to a few of you lol.
I've been around both directions, and one suggestion for a two-in-one is.... from Baddeck go counterclockwise to Cheticamp for lunch, then turn around and come back the opposite way. There is time for Meat Cove and easily done in a day. Another loop is to Sydney and along the Bras D'Or Lakes, options to loop back or make your way to the TCH at the west end.
OP
OP
I like the counterclockwise version the best, two reasons, because we drive on the right, the coastline is on the right with the views. The second reason is the availability of the lookout stops, you can easily access them from the right lane instead of having to cross the highway when going clockwise, especially in tourist season, less likely to get rear ended.
I have done what Ray has suggested a few times, my personal opinion is you get two excellent rides each having their unique perspective.
On June 12 2017 ( my wedding anniversary) I rode the trail, I stopped off at the lighthouse in Neil’s Harbour and was greeted by @scootac, on that trip I discovered the loop to White point and South Harbour. This is an entertaining loop with lots of curves and great views and less traveled. The lighthouse is a good spot to meet up if we get separated, as well as the lookout/picnic area at the top of Cape Smokey. Both have easy access, and plenty of room to park the bikes, a chance to stretch your legs and use the facilities.
I have done what Ray has suggested a few times, my personal opinion is you get two excellent rides each having their unique perspective.
On June 12 2017 ( my wedding anniversary) I rode the trail, I stopped off at the lighthouse in Neil’s Harbour and was greeted by @scootac, on that trip I discovered the loop to White point and South Harbour. This is an entertaining loop with lots of curves and great views and less traveled. The lighthouse is a good spot to meet up if we get separated, as well as the lookout/picnic area at the top of Cape Smokey. Both have easy access, and plenty of room to park the bikes, a chance to stretch your legs and use the facilities.
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STinner
Retired
I ride I've always wanted to do but no vax no trip.............
STFlips
Site Supporter
Never been on that loop, sounds very nice
OP
OP
That and going up to Meat Cove, I found to be rewarding.
scootac
Will Ride for Food
Shoulda mentioned the meeting was only possible by our exhaustive planning and flawless execution!
OP
OP
You worked miracles at the last minute. When I planned that trip, I didn’t give much notice, but there you were.Shoulda mentioned the meeting was only possible by our exhaustive planning and flawless execution!