The area known as Ingonish is actually a cluster of five small communities on the Cabot Trail, nestled between the National Park, Highlands and Atlantic Ocean. It consists of Ingonish Ferry in the South followed by Ingonish Harbour, Ingonish Beach, Ingonish Centre, and ends with Ingonish in the North. From start to finish the area covers only 16 kilometers, so no matter where you stay in Ingonish, you are only minutes away from all recreation and services Much of the Ingonish area borders the 950 square km Cape Breton Highlands National Park which contains campgrounds, look-offs, picnic sites, beaches and hiking trails. In the summer visitors can choose between a comfortable swim in fresh water lakes or a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean. Scenic cruises and whale watching are also available during the summer. Freshly caught lobster are available from mid-May until mid-July, followed by the snow crab season which usually lasts until mid-August. During these times, local service clubs host delicious lobster suppers along with various craft and bake sales. In addition, throughout the year, you will find Ceilidhs and other traditional Cape Breton entertainment. In the summer, Ski Cape Smokey offers scenic lift rides to the top of its summit, providing a gorgeous panoramic view of the Highlands and the ocean. Autumn in Ingonish is an artist's and photographer's delight; a time when days are crisp and clear and the highlands are blanketed with brilliant reds, oranges and golds. It is also a good time of year for sighting moose and other wildlife. Ingonish also offers a number of groomed cross country ski trails and serves as a jumping off point for an extensive complex of trail farther north.