Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Part 4: Aspy Trail and Beulach Ban Falls
The Aspy Trail, which climbs into the eponymous Aspy Valley, was recommended to me a few days earlier as a good trail for seeing Fall colors. I was still about 5-7 days before the peak when I hiked the 6 mile trail however though near the end of the trail, which is a few hundred feet higher than the valley floor, I spotted a few vivid reds. Most of the trail winds through the valley floor however through the birch forest typical of Cape Breton island lowlands before the trail leaves the old logging road and begins to climb one of the surrounding mountains.
The logging road was muddy which allowed me to spot numerous tracks, including multiple moose hooves. Still no live moose though. I saw bear tracks as well and didn’t see any live bear so I will happily take that trade off. It was a pleasant hike of about two hours though I can imagine it becomes much more special when the greens turn to yellows and reds. Before I set off that morning I walked over to Beulach Falls, which happens to be at the same trail head. The cascade falls are about 65 feet and fairly impressive.

Walking into the sun just before the climb up the mountain, Aspy Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia, Canada

View of the valley from near the end of the Aspy Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia, Canada