Nova Scotia Announces Agreements to Build Jajiktek Seawall Trail in Northern Cape Breton
On October 19, 2026, Nova Scotia announced agreements allowing the Municipality of the County of Inverness to build and manage the 48-kilometre Jajiktek Seawall Trail. Backed by a $7 million provincial investment, the four-day coastal hiking route is expected to open in about two years.
On October 19, 2026, Timothy Halman, Nova Scotia’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change, announced two agreements that allow the Municipality of the County of Inverness to build and manage the Jajiktek Seawall Trail in northern Cape Breton. The trail is expected to open in about two years.
The route will span approximately 48 kilometres, beginning near Red River in Inverness County and ending in Meat Cove, close to the Victoria County line. Hikers will complete the experience over four days, with overnight stays in camping huts at three locations along the way. About 86 per cent of the trail—42 kilometres—will be situated within the Polletts Cove-Aspy Fault Wilderness Area. The remaining six kilometres cross lands administered by the Department of Public Works, the Nova Scotia Nature Trust, and the federal Department of National Defence.
The province has invested about $7 million to help design and build the trail and its camping huts. The name “Jajiktek” is a Mi’kmaw word meaning crouching down and standing up as you move along a difficult route close to water.
Bonny MacIsaac, Warden of the Municipality of the County of Inverness, stated that the project supports long-term economic vitality for rural communities and showcases natural and cultural heritage. Dave Ritcey, Minister of Communities, Culture, Tourism and Heritage, noted that the trail will draw more tourists to northern Cape Breton and support local businesses.
Terry Smith, CEO of Destination Cape Breton, described the trail as a bucket-list experience that aligns with the goal of extending visitor length of stay.