LOUISBOURG, NOVA SCOTIA, May 31, 2023 – Parks Canada would like to advise visitors and the public of the following closures at Cape Breton Highlands National Park and Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site effective immediately.

Closures:

  • All trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park
  • All trails at Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site
  • All forested areas, barrens, and backcountry
  • Designated backcountry camping at Fishing Cove
  • Undesignated backcountry camping

What remains open:

  • Front country camping at Cape Breton Highlands National Park
  • Overnight accommodations and camping at Fortress of Louisbourg
  • Beaches
  • Day use areas
  • The Cabot Trail

A full fire ban continues to be in effect in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. No open fires are permitted. This includes campfires, charcoal barbecues, and candles. Propane/gas camp stoves and lanterns are permitted but should be used with caution. Fire in kitchen shelter stoves is not permitted. While smoking is not prohibited, it is imperative that smokers dispose of their cigarette butts properly—do not throw cigarette butts on the ground or on anything that may ignite, and dispose of them in an appropriate bin. Fireworks and sparklers are fire hazards and are prohibited at Parks Canada administered places.

A fire ban is a legal restriction on certain types of fires to prevent human-caused wildfires. In a national park, burning illegally could result in a minimum fine of $352.50. More serious offenses may result in fines up to $25,000.

These preventative actions are in support of the Province of Nova Scotia’s recent restrictions to wooded areas to reduce the risk of wildfires across Nova Scotia.

Visitor and public safety is Parks Canada’s first priority. These restrictions are in place to proactively minimize the potential for strain on fire suppression resources while crews across the province battle several wildfires on the mainland. There is currently no immediate risk of forest fires at Cape Breton Highlands National Park and Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, although the fire weather index is now moderate to high in these areas.

Parks Canada asks the public to respect these closures and restrictions. These measures will be in effect until June 25 or until conditions allow them to be lifted, and updates will be provided as information changes. Parks Canada appreciates the public’s care and cooperation in reducing wildlife risk.

To report a fire in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park or the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, call 911.

For more information on the fire ban, visit parks.canada.ca/capebreton.