Bras d'Or Lake Biosphere Reserve

Bras d'Or Lake Biosphere Reserve is a large inland water system on Cape Breton Island with several long channels in its northern section and numerous bays scattered through the south. The landscape features rolling hills along the shores with wetland areas spread throughout the entire region.

Rising sea levels after the last ice age transformed an ancient river system into an inland sea with an opening to the Atlantic Ocean. This geological shift created the network of channels and bays that define the landscape today.

Indigenous Mi'kmaq communities have deep roots here and shape how people interact with the lake and its resources today. You can sense this connection in the settlements and fishing practices throughout the region.

A causeway connects the reserve to mainland Nova Scotia, making it easy to reach the water and surrounding areas. Fishing and wildlife watching are popular activities available at multiple locations around the lake.

The lake was once part of a river system before ocean water entered and created a rare mix of fresh and salt water. This special blend of aquatic and land ecosystems makes it a valuable location for scientists and nature enthusiasts.