Enjoy Ski Cape Smokey in Ingonish Beach, NS, featuring family-friendly amenities, live performances, free parking, and full accessibility. Rated 4.3 from 712 reviews.
Visitors appreciate the stunning views, family-friendly atmosphere, and variety of activities, while noting some seasonal closures and advance ticketing are important for planning.
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Ski Cape Smokey is a ski resort located at 38696 Cabot Trail, Ingonish Beach, Nova Scotia, offering visitors a mix of winter sports and scenic attractions. With a rating of 4.3 from over 700 reviews, it serves as both a recreational destination and a noteworthy tourist attraction. The resort is family-friendly and welcomes diverse groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals, creating an inclusive environment for all guests.
The property features a variety of on-site amenities such as a bar, restaurant, and free Wi-Fi, complemented by accessibility options including wheelchair-accessible parking, entrances, seating, and restrooms. These practical facilities make for a comfortable visit whether guests are there to ski or enjoy other attractions like live performances and outdoor activities. Several reviews highlight the relaxed atmosphere and helpful staff, which add a welcoming touch to the overall experience.
The ski resort is praised for its gondola ride providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding fall foliage and ocean, making it a popular spot not only for skiing but for sightseeing and hiking as well. Visitors appreciate the ability to ride the gondola multiple times with a single ticket, enhancing the value of the experience. Outdoor options at the top include mini golf, frisbee golf, and kayaking, supplying a range of activities beyond skiing.
Guests often mention the ease of parking and the scenic, tranquil setting accessible without heavy traffic. Though some seasonal or weather-related closures, such as for fire prevention, have been noted, the overall experience remains positive with memorable natural vistas and a diverse range of things to do. Booking tickets in advance is recommended due to popularity.
Contact can be made via phone at +1 902-517-0371 for further information or planning. Ski Cape Smokey suits families, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a quiet and accessible ski destination with convenient facilities and a relaxed pace.
The short version: what's available day-to-day, and the key practical details most travelers search for.
Reviews from travelers who stayed here in the last 12 months, grouped to help you spot the pattern quickly.
The Trails were closed (for fire prevention) at 4pm on Tuesday Aug 5 while we were at the Top of Cape Smokey. So our hike was cut way short. Im sorry I can't speak to the trails on top of the mountain. However the view from the top of the Gondola was worth the price of admission.
Very beautiful view! Nice little hike out to the lake at the top. The Cafe there is very quaint (lodge-style), Unfortunately, it was closed on Monday when we got there but restrooms were still open. Would love to go back there for a meal! Very friendly staff! Lots of little things to do at the top- hike, mini golf, Frisbee golf in the woods, kayak at the lake. Very nice!
Was hesitant at first with price for 4 kids. Kids 5 and under are free. You can ride multiple times until 6pm with wristband. Went from meh, maybe we shouldn't do this to the kids not wanting to leave. Great little stop on the Calbot Trail. Bar at top with mini putt and photo ops. Man up top at the bar was pleasant to chat with. Last but not least, the free cookies at the bottom. Great experience all around.
It was an amazing ride, offering a breathtaking view of Cape Breton’s beauty. On one side, the vibrant colors of fall painted the landscape, and on the other, the vast ocean stretched endlessly—oh my God, what a splendid sight! It was truly an unforgettable experience. The gondolas move slowly, so even those who are afraid of heights have nothing to worry about—just hop in, relax, and enjoy the ride.
Went out on Boxing Day with my sister’s cousin’s and family. We had a total blast. There was no traffic on the highway to get there. We showed up at 10:00 and there was still lots of parking space. The staff were really friendly and helpful. James the ski patrol did a great job bandaging my sister burnt fingers from a Christmas dinner disaster. He set her up to shred all day. There was no line ups for the gondola. I had the fish Tacos for lunch. They were straight out of my fantasies. I had been trying to persuade the food and beverage manager at Whistler Blackcomb to get the Tacos back since Vail bought it, but have had no luck. So my eyes lite up when I saw them on the menu. They were crispy, flavourful and came with three. I have been living skiing out in B.C. for the past 15years and it was really refreshing to experience the relaxed pace and down to earth vibe of this awesome ski hill. The view of the ocean is next level. Thanks for keeping it real and providing a great experience!
It was truly one of the most wonderful experiences I’ve ever had. The gondola ride cost approximately $47 per person, and what makes it even better is that you can ride it as many times as you like without paying extra—just one ticket gives you unlimited access! I had an amazing time with my hubby; we soaked in the breathtaking views from the top and created unforgettable memories together. For those concerned about washroom access, there’s a convenient restaurant at the top of the stairs that you can use. I’m giving this experience 4 stars only because the ticket price felt a bit steep—but overall, it was absolutely worth it.
Did you know that Gondola at Ski Cape Smokey offers free rides for everyone over 80 yrs old? That is great for those adventurers young at heart ! Lovely views from up top and staff is wonderful!
Absolutely breathtaking experience! The gondola ride over the hill offered stunning panoramic views of the fall colours — vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows everywhere. It was peaceful, relaxing, and the perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the season. Highly recommend taking the ride during peak foliage — it’s magical! .
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