Highlands Four Seasons
It is summer that lures visitors here to enjoy the sun, sandy beaches and spectacular views. The Northeast Highlands is the perfect place to lay back and relax to the soothing sound of waves crashing. It is also a great place to sail, kayak, or play a round on one of the world's premier golf courses. Although these activities and more ensure a vibrant summer industry, other seasons offer equally splendid delights.
A Highland autumn, for instance, provides a majestic spectacle. Mountain trees and trails ablaze with scarlet and gold against the backdrop of the sea display a scenic grandeur unmatched anywhere. Come and experience the internationally acclaimed Celtic Colors music festival in early October or golf, cycle and hike when temperatures are comfortable.
Similar opportunities abound for springtime visitors. Spring is a terrific time of year to view wildlife such as moose, bear, deer, fox, and eagles. The area is in the migratory path for hundreds of varieties of birds in the early spring and fall. Places like the Clyburn and Sunrise Valleys offer refuge for the birds. These valleys come alive with hundreds of different species at this special time of year.
This is also an artist's and photographer's paradise; they can revel in capturing some of the world's most breathtaking scenery. May and June bring a time when colors come alive. The hills and the mountains are awash in thousands of vibrant greens, which meet the blue of the sea. Far from major centers, there exists crystal clarity in the air that makes nighttime stargazing a real treat. Experience aurora borealis or the night sky as never before.
In every village and hamlet there are sights unique to this region. Spring brings with it an air of excitement when preparations begin for the start of the lobster-fishing season. Wharves are bustling and freshly painted, colorful lobster boats dot the landscape. Lobster traps are piled high on local wharves.
In fact, both spring and fall are ideal seasons for hiking. More than 25 hiking trails are located throughout the Cape Breton Highlands National Park alone. Coastal trails traverse rocky headlands and mountain climbs reward the hiker with magnificent panoramic views of the coastline and river valleys. Trails range from 10 or 20 minute strolls to 2 or more hour hikes. More experienced hikers may choose an overnight backpacking trek into the interior of the highlands where they can enjoy a variety of wildlife.
Although fox, lynx, bobcat and other wildlife are evident in all seasons, winter brings moose down from the plateau to browse and to escape deep snow. People, can enjoy the delights of snowshoeing, cross-country, down-hill or telemark skiing, ice-fishing or exploring some of the numerous snowmobile trails in winter. There is a guaranteed snowfall in the Highlands when some areas of Nova Scotia have little.
Regardless of the time of year, visitors can always delve into getting to know the people, history and culture of our region. This area remains a place where people feel safe and are not afraid to leave their doors unlocked, day or night. Everyone has a hello and helping hands are always available. When one experiences this camaraderie, it reminds them of simpler times.