Do you want to explore Nova Scotia’s tallest waterfall? If you’re looking for a rugged and challenging day trip, North River Falls could be just the thing. Be prepared, though — you’re in for some difficult terrain. This is not a beginner route. Keep reading to see what I mean.
Back in June, I ventured out to North River Falls Provincial Park and Wilderness Area to discover the province’s tallest waterfall. I couldn’t wait to explore more of Cape Breton Island. As one of the longer day hikes around, North River Falls offered the chance to trek along the North River valley and Cape Breton Highlands plateau. I was prepared for early season conditions (wet, muddy, and cold) and loved the additional challenge of technical sections — including two river crossings and navigating slippery riverbanks.
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North River Falls Trail Map (Cape Breton Island)
About the North River Falls Hike
Location: Near St. Anns, Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
Distance: 18 km out and back
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation: 350 metre elevation gain
Time: 5 – 7 hours
Family-Friendly: Not recommended for young children. Not stroller-friendly.
Dog-friendly: Yes, but dogs should remain on a leash.
Features: The North River Falls hike includes diverse and difficult terrain leading to what’s called Nova Scotia’s tallest waterfall. The beginning is relatively easy and becomes progressively more challenging toward the falls.
Heads Up: North River Falls Trail is officially closed due to flood damage and should only be attempted by experienced hikers. If you’re considering the trek to North River Falls, be sure to do your research and prepare before heading out.
Directions to the North River Falls Trailhead
If you’re coming from Baddeck, head north toward St. Anns and turn onto the Cabot Trail. Drive for about 18 kilometres, crossing the North River Bridge, and then turn left onto Oregon Road. Follow Oregan Rd for about 4 km to the very end and find the entrance to North River Falls Provincial Park. Don’t worry, you can’t miss it. Park here and start the trek.
Read next: Tenerife Mountain Hike in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
North River Falls — The Tallest Waterfall in Nova Scotia
The beginning of the North River Falls hike is fairly straightforward. After a steep climb, turn left onto an old cart road built by Scottish settlers. You can explore remnants of the settlement on this well-trodden trailway. It’s an easy and gradual walk through the forest initially — but can be quite wet in June. I wore my Altra Trail Runners. If you’re looking for an easy route, you could always hike the first few kilometres and then turn around. Not a bad option for trail running either. Moose tracks and droppings were frequent along the way. If you come across a moose, give them lots of space.
As you continue on, flood damage becomes obvious with significant riverbank erosion. After about 7 km, the previous trail leads to the eroded riverbank — do not go down here. I suggest heading left through the trees and approaching the river crossing below. You will need to cross the river twice to reach North River Falls. I crossed in bare feet but you may prefer water shoes. River crossings may become more hazardous depending on the time of year and water flow. Proceed with caution, friends. Trekking poles might also be useful for extra balance. After the river crossings, follow the riverbank along rough terrain with rocks, roots, and slippery trails. North River Falls is certainly a worthwhile reward!
Note: I do not recommend North River Falls for novice hikers. Visitors require a level of fitness and hiking abilities to reach the waterfall safely. Proceed at your own risk.
Know Before You Go
Trail Closure: It’s important to note that North River Falls is officially closed. The Cape Breton Island website states, “Please note that this trail has experienced serious degradation and should only be traversed by experienced hikers.”
Parking: Ample parking near the front gate or next to the trailhead.
Fee: No parking or park entrance fee.
Toilet: Outhouse toilets are available in the park. Bring a trowel and dig a hole if nature calls when you’re hiking. Learn more here.
Swimming: There are various pools along North River and a fair-sized pool at the bottom of North River Falls. Swim at your own risk.
Wildlife: Cape Breton Island is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, coyote, and black bear. Never feed wild animals, and keep your distance. Anglers are not permitted to fish for salmon in North River to protect one of the few healthy and self-sustaining early-run salmon populations in Nova Scotia.
Safety: You should be self-sufficient for this trek. Bring a small first-aid kit with essentials. I recommend completing a wilderness first aid course before heading into the backcountry. Cell service is limited. Consider bringing a satellite communications device with an SOS feature in case of an emergency.
Navigation: The first part of the trail is easy to navigate, with signs and trail markers (flagging tape) to help keep you on track. You should have some trail-finding skills. I used the AllTrails map for navigation. Bring an extra battery pack, too.
Leave No Trace: Do you know how to practice Leave No Trace in the backcountry? Read up before heading out!
What to Bring for Hiking Cape Breton Waterfalls
I suggest carrying a day pack with hiking essentials inside. You will want at least a litre of water (check out this Nalgene) and can always bring purification tablets. Happy hikers don’t have grumbling bellies — carry a few snacks just in case (have you tried these? Tasty!). No matter the weather, I always carry a rain shell and a few extra layers. I like to have a Buff to keep my head warm. Hiking poles aren’t a bad idea either. For safety, I carry a small first-aid kit and a communications device.
Read next: 10 Day Hiking Essentials: What to Bring on a Hike
More Cape Breton Island Hikes
Are you looking for Nova Scotia hikes to check out? Here are a few more to add to your list:
- Tenerife Mountain Hike in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
- Gairloch Mountain Falls Hike in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
- Cape Split Trail: One of the Best Hikes in Nova Scotia
- Your Complete Guide to Hiking Cape Chignecto Trail in NS
Have you explored North River Falls on Cape Breton Island? How about any other Cape Breton waterfalls? Leave a comment below!
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Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
