The Skyline Trail is one of the most sought-after experiences within Cape Breton Highlands National Park and a signature attraction for Cape Breton’s tourism economy.
To ensure a safe, high-quality visitor experience and to protect the sensitive coastal ecosystem surrounding the trail, Parks Canada will implement a timed parking reservation system during peak season in 2026. This means, visitors who wish to use the Skyline Trail will need to book a scheduled visit online or by phone.
Tourism Nova Scotia is helping Parks Canada get the word out to tourism partners to:
• Update websites and itineraries
• Inform frontline staff
• Integrate messaging into visitor communications
• Share coordinated social media content
• Encourage advance planning
Please help share this information with your visitors who are planning to visit Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Your collaboration helps ensure visitors arrive informed, prepared and ready to enjoy their experience.
Why the system is being introduced:
The Skyline Trail consistently reaches parking capacity during peak visitation periods, particularly:
• Long weekends
• Late June to late October peak season
• Sunny sunset periods
In recent years, when parking reaches capacity, temporary closures and congestion can impact visitor satisfaction and safety.
The new system will:
• Manage high visitation
• Reduce congestion
• Protect trail integrity and surrounding ecosystems
• Improve visitor experience
• Support long-term sustainability of this iconic destination
Key dates for 2026:
Reservation booking opens:
May 6, 2026 at 8:00 a.m. ET / 9:00 a.m. AT
English: Parks Canada Reservation System
Français: Système de réservation de Parcs Canada
Reservation required:
June 26 – October 25, 2026
Outside of these dates, parking reservations are not required.
How visitors can book:
Visitors may reserve parking:
Online via the Parks Canada Reservation System
https://reservation.pc.gc.ca
By telephone:
1-877-737-3783
1-519-826-5391 (outside North America)
Parking is subject to availability. When time slots are full, access will not be available. Advance booking prior to arrival is strongly recommended.
Skyline Trail Parking Reservation System - Industry Partner Toolkit 2026