The Nova Scotia Business Journal

INGONISH BEACH — According to the May edition of the National Geographic Traveler Magazine, Cape Breton Highlands National Park is home to two of Canada's top 25 beaches. Black Brook Beach, conveniently located just off the Cabot Trail, is a geological gem, featuring a variety of striking rock features that can be enjoyed from its sandy beach. In addition to its scenic swimming beach, Black Brook has a large parking area and offers access to a beautiful oceanside picnic area. The large washroom facility on the south side of Black Brook has been upgraded with a more efficient water storage facility, low flush fixtures and is wheelchair accessible.

Ingonish Beach offers visitors the opportunity to swim in the salty Atlantic Ocean or in nearby Freshwater Lake, without leaving the strand. Ingonish Beach is also popular with local residents. Its sandy beaches and ocean water are supervised during July and August by surfguards. A canteen is open during the summer for those looking to enjoy lunch, snacks or refreshments on the beach. Nearby playing fields, tennis courts and hiking trails (Freshwater Lake) are ideal for people enjoying active vacations.

Cape Breton Highlands Park offers a wide range of interpretive programs in July and August. Nature talks take place nightly at the Broad Cove and Cheticamp outdoor theatres where folks can learn about bears, bats and birds. The 'Guest Speaker' series is taking place again this year with presentations each Sunday night in August at Keltic Lodge at 8 p.m. Topics vary from the Basques to the Scots, from moose to marten. Pick up an event schedule from any of the campground offices for more details.

A park entry permit is required, and entitles you to the use of 24 lookoffs for Cabot Trail sightseeing within the park, 25 hiking trails, two information centres, exhibits, beaches, picnic areas, playgrounds, clean washrooms and more.

Revenue generated from the sale of entry permits is reinvested in the park to ensure that facilities such as Black Brook are available for visitors to fully enjoy their national park experience. – Cape Breton Post