If you’re looking for an easy hike near Chéticamp, I’d absolutely recommend adding Gypsum Mine Lake to your Cape Breton itinerary.
The walk is short, it’s suitable for almost anyone, and at the end you’ll arrive at a flooded gypsum quarry that’s become one of the area’s favourite swimming spots.
I visited while staying in Chéticamp with my family. We’d already spent a few days hiking around Cape Breton, so on this particular afternoon we wanted something a little more relaxed.
My mother-in-law and I took our dog, Ezzy, out despite the light rain, and it ended up being one of my favourite walks of the trip.
If you’re driving the Cabot Trail or spending a couple of days in Chéticamp, this is an easy stop that’s well worth making time for.
Why Visit Gypsum Mine Lake?
One of the things I liked most about this hike is that it doesn’t require much planning.
You don’t need several hours, you don’t need to be an experienced hiker, and you don’t have to climb a mountain to enjoy it. The trail is about 2.4 kilometers out and back, with only around 60 meters of elevation gain.
The trail follows the route of the old railway that once served the gypsum mine, so for most of the walk it’s a wide gravel path and fairly gradual. There are a couple of uphill sections, but nothing strenuous. Before long, the trees open up and the lake comes into view.
It’s a surprising sight the first time you see it. The water is an intense blue-green colour because this was once an active gypsum quarry.
Over the decades, groundwater gradually filled the excavation after mining ended. On a sunny day the colour is even more striking, but even with overcast skies I thought it was beautiful.
In the summer you’ll probably find people swimming, floating on inflatable rafts, or sitting along the shoreline with a picnic.
When we visited, most of the swimmers had traded places with dogs, which Ezzy was very happy about.
The History of Gypsum Mine Lake
Although it looks like a natural lake today, this landscape has a very different history.
Mining began here in the early 1900s, when gypsum deposits outside Chéticamp were developed commercially.
Gypsum is a soft mineral that’s widely used in products like drywall and plaster. A railway connected the quarry to Chéticamp Harbour so the gypsum could be transported and shipped elsewhere.
The mine operated until the late 1930s, when production eventually stopped. After it closed, groundwater slowly filled the quarry, creating the lake visitors see today. National Gypsum, which later owned the site, eventually donated the property to the Chéticamp community.
The lake is very deep, and locals told us that much of the old mining equipment is still in it, sunk to the bottom!
Gypsum Mine Lake seems like a natural swimming hole, but with this history, it’s actually a reminder of an industry that helped shape the Chéticamp community for several decades.
What to Expect on the Trail
The trail starts from a free parking lot just outside Chéticamp, only about five minutes from the main street.
From there, it’s a straightforward walk through the forest. Most of the trail is wide enough for groups to comfortably walk side by side, and because it’s following the old railway route, the grade stays fairly gentle.
If it’s been raining recently, I’d definitely recommend wearing hiking boots or shoes with decent grip, and expect some muddy parts.
The day we visited there were a few muddy sections, especially closer to the lake. They were easy enough to get through, but I was glad I was wearing my boots instead of regular running shoes.
The trail takes no more than an hour to complete, depending on how long you spend at the lake.
The Lookout Over Gypsum Mine Lake
Once you arrive at the lake, you’ll probably notice people climbing the rocks on the left-hand side.
This short side trail leads to the famous lookout over the quarry. It’s only about ten minutes to the top, but it’s much steeper than the main trail.
You’ll scramble over rocks for part of the climb, and there’s a rope near the top to help people through one of the steeper sections.
My mother-in-law and I decided to skip hiking up to the view point.
After several days of hiking, neither of us really had the energy, and with the rain we knew the rocks would be slippery. We also weren’t convinced it would be much fun trying to coax Ezzy up the scramble.
If conditions are dry and you’re comfortable scrambling over rocks, it’s likely worth climbing up to the lookout, because it does give you the classic aerial view of the lake that you’ll often see in photos.
Can You Swim at Gypsum Mine Lake?
Yes, and if you visit on a warm summer day you’ll almost certainly see people in the water.
The lake has become a popular swimming spot because the water is incredibly clear and has that distinctive turquoise colour. There aren’t any facilities or lifeguards though, so you’re swimming at your own risk.
One thing to keep in mind is that this was originally a quarry, which means the water gets deep fairly quickly.
If you’re swimming with children or you’re not a confident swimmer yourself, it’s worth being extra cautious.
Since we visited in October, it was much too cool for us to swim, but Ezzy didn’t seem to mind the temperature one bit. She spent most of our visit paddling around while we sat on the shore watching her enjoy herself.
The path along the lake and Ezzy swimming
Is Gypsum Mine Lake Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Gypsum Mine Trail is an easy walk that includes beautiful views. And because it doesn’t take long, it’s easy to fit into your day.
We spent about an hour here, got outside despite the weather, let Ezzy burn off some energy, and still had lots of time left in the day to enjoy the town of Chéticamp.
If you’re staying nearby or driving the Cabot Trail, I think it’s an easy stop to add.
Just wear footwear that can handle a bit of mud, bring a towel if you’re planning to swim, and decide once you get there whether the lookout feels right for you.
One thing I learned during our time in Cape Breton? Don’t let a bit of rain change your plans.
The weather can shift so quickly here that if you waited for a perfect forecast, you’d probably end up missing some great experiences. We packed rain jackets, embraced it, and still had a really enjoyable afternoon.
Use the Gypsum Mine Trail Responsibly
What not to do on Cape Breton? Don’t ignore the best practices around enjoying the outdoors responsibly and sustainably.
Gypsum Mine Lake has become one of the most popular hikes near Chéticamp, and it’s easy to understand why. It’s close to town, the walk is short, and on a warm day the lake is a popular place to swim.
With that popularity comes a bit of responsibility.
If you’re visiting, remember to be a responsible tourist. Stay on the marked trail to help protect the surrounding vegetation, don’t feed wildlife, and pack out everything you bring with you.
That includes food scraps like orange peels or apple cores, which can attract wildlife and take longer to break down than many people realize.
If you’re bringing your dog, keep them under control around other visitors, on a leash (unless swimming), and remember to pick up after them.
One of the things I appreciated most about this trail was how natural it still felt, despite being such a well-known spot. Following a few simple Leave No Trace principles helps keep it that way for everyone who visits after you.
FAQs for Visiting Gypsum Mine Lake
Where do you park for the Gypsum Mine Trail?
Free parking is available at the Gypsum Mine Lake Trailhead on Chéticamp Back Road, about a five-minute drive from downtown Chéticamp. The parking lot is beside Accolade Hostel Retreat Campground and has direct access to the trail.
How long is the Gypsum Mine trail?
The Gypsum Mine Lake Trail is approximately 2.4 km (1.5 miles) out and back. Most people complete the hike in 40 to 60 minutes, depending on how long they spend at the lake or whether they climb to the lookout.
How difficult is the Gypsum Mine Trail?
The main Gypsum Mine Lake Trail is considered easy. It follows a wide former railway grade with only gentle hills, making it suitable for most visitors. The optional lookout trail is much steeper and involves scrambling over rocks.
Can you swim at Gypsum Mine Lake?
Yes. Gypsum Mine Lake is a popular swimming spot during the summer thanks to its clear turquoise water. Keep in mind that the former quarry becomes deep quickly, there are no lifeguards, and you swim at your own risk.
How deep is Gypsum Mine Lake?
There is no officially confirmed depth for Gypsum Mine Lake. Because it was once a gypsum quarry, the water becomes deep very quickly near the shoreline. Some locals estimate it’s more than 75 feet (23 metres) deep, but that hasn’t been verified.
Can you skate on Gypsum Mine Lake in the winter?
Skating on Gypsum Mine Lake isn’t recommended. Although the lake freezes in winter, underwater springs can create thin or unstable ice, making conditions unpredictable. Always follow local safety advice and avoid venturing onto the ice.
Is the Gypsum Mine Lake Trail dog friendly?
Yes. Dogs are welcome on the Gypsum Mine Lake Trail, and many enjoy swimming in the lake during warmer months. Keep your dog under control and on a leash, clean up after them, and use your judgement before attempting the steep lookout trail.
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