Our Story
The trail stands as a guardian of the land's past and a beacon for its future.
What makes Skye River Trail special?
Cradled by Skye Mountain and rooted in the heart of We’koqma’q First Nation, the Skye River Trail occupies a place of unmatched natural beauty and spiritual significance. The trail offers a unique vantage point from which to appreciate the land’s grandeur, from the mountain’s presence to the sparkling river to the gentle embrace of the surrounding forest.
From Humble Beginnings
The Skye River Trail weaves through the landscape like a narrative thread through time. This trail isn’t just a journey through nature; it’s a passage through the stories of those who have walked these lands for generations.
Our trail carves a path through the ila’latl Healing Forest, one of Canada’s few National Healing Forests. This initiative fosters reconciliation and healing, offering a sanctuary for reflection, renewal, and connection with nature. Through a collaborative spirit, it encourages the creation of healing spaces across Canada to honor and remember. Our forest and trail embody this mission, inviting visitors to experience the resilience and peace of our community and the land we cherish.
About We’koqma’q
At the foothills of Skye Mountain lies We’koqma’q First Nation. Seen from above, the landscape shows valley grooves connecting to the Bras d’Or Lake, Canada’s largest inland sea.
Located approximately 44 kilometers north of the Canso Causeway and 115 kilometers south of Industrial Cape Breton, We’koqma’q is a dynamic community bordered by the Bras d’Or Lake. Unama’ki/Cape Breton has been home to the Mi’kmaq since time immemorial, with its serene landscape offering rich hunting and fishing grounds. This tranquil and picturesque setting provides an idyllic backdrop for its residents.
In the last decade, We’koqma’q has evolved, guided by its leadership to nurture a self-reliant economy. This journey of transformation, marked by strategic partnerships, has not only opened up job prospects but also fortified community infrastructure, aiming to uplift the economic, social, and well-being facets of its people. The Skye River Trail exemplifies this progress, inviting visitors to not only explore its paths but also to engage with the broader community, experiencing the vibrant culture and the forward strides of We’koqma’q.
Whitney Gould
Meet the Logo Artist
Whitney Gould was born in 1988 and raised in We’koqma’q First Nation. She started drawing at age 12, and was inspired by her late grandfather Alex R. Googoo to explore cultural art. Whitney was commissioned as the artist for the Skye River trail, where you will see much of her art reflected as you journey through the peaceful paths along the river. She credits her parents for encouraging her to never give up on her dreams.
Conections
The Skye River Trail is a vital segment of the Trans Canada Trail, an extensive network that weaves through the nation’s diverse landscapes.
Besides being part of the Trans Canada Trail, the trail also offers a gateway to the majestic Bras d’Or Lake, a UNESCO-designated biosphere reserve renowned for its breathtaking beauty and ecological significance. This access point invites canoeing or kayaking visitors to immerse themselves in the splendor of the lake’s waters, exploring a world where nature’s harmony is preserved and celebrated.