The Mini Cabot Trail: A Scenic Drive from Antigonish to Cape George

Heading out on Hwy 337N from Antigonish, pass the Hospital from the east end of Main Street and travel through luscious farmlands with views of the ocean. Then up hill and down dale with wildflowers along the roadside and occasional views of the Northumberland Shore. This drive is sometimes called the “Mini Cape” or the “Mini Cabot Trail” and is part of the Sunrise Trail.

Antigonish is blessed with a variety of beaches within a half hour drive all along the St George’s Bay coastline – Mahoneys Beach, Jimtown, Cribbons, Crystal Cliffs, Balantynes Cove and Cape George. Each of these has its own charm and atmosphere. As the name “Sunrise Trail” suggests, these beaches are facing to the East and a good place to see the sunrise.

The first beach you come to is Mahoneys Beach. It’s great for a long walk along the ocean or lagoon side. You will often see paddlers and Kayaks exploring the area – the outlet from Antigonish Harbour is here. This is a pebble beach with some sand on the lagoon side. It’s a great place for a beach campfire.

Jim Town Beach is a stretch of sandy and pebble beach with Ogden Pond on the inland side. Watch for the currents at this beach as the fresh water runs out into the ocean at this point causing a rip current. This is a good beach for watching sea birds, beach combing and beautiful views of the hills and homes surrounding this tiny beach. Stop and see the tiny white country church along the access road.

Just before you reach Ballantynes Cove, stop at the lookout for a spectacular view of the cove, St. George’s Bay and Cape George beyond. You can use the map there to identify some of the places that you see including Cape Breton on the horizon.

Carry on down the hill to the marina and stroll around and look at the Tuna fishing boats and pleasure boats. Learn about Tuna and Tuna fishing at the Tuna Interpretive Centre. Find some amazing facts about Tuna that have been caught in the area, the largest was over 1400 pounds. The Tuna season runs from August through October. Several tuna sport fishing charters are based here.

Behind the Interpretive Centre take a short walk to a crescent pebble beach perfect for dabbling your toes in the warm waters of St. George’s Bay, sunbathing and beach combing.

Cribbons Point is another working fishing marina where you can enjoy a stroll on the dock. There is no direct beach access.

As you travel a bit further up the coast explore the Cape George Lighthouse and trails. This is the Northern tip of the St. George’s Bay. No beach here but gorgeous views of the entire Bay and over to Cape Breton Island. On a sunny day, enjoy views of Cape Breton Island and Prince Edward Island in the distance. Perhaps you will see an eagle soaring above or below you and sea birds skimming along the ocean below the cliffs. Nearby is a trailhead for Cape George Heritage Trail System.

At this point you can retrace your drive to Antigonish or continue on to Arisaig and come back by the land route returning onto Hawthorne Street in Antigonish.
Be Prepared. Take water, sunscreen, a jacket, hat, snacks, beach shoes. There is little or no shade on these beaches so take what you need to be comfortable. After the summer season there is no food so pack a picnic lunch from Antigonish.

The Mini Cabot Trail is just one way to explore the coastline around Antigonish. Give yourself time for the beaches, trails, look-offs, and small communities along the route — or continue toward Arisaig and explore more of Nova Scotia’s Northumberland Shore.

Planning a larger trip? Read Planning a Trip to Nova Scotia? Why the Northumberland Shore Belongs on Your Itinerary for more ideas on communities to visit, outdoor adventures, local food, places to stay, and stops to add to your Nova Scotia road trip.