Franey Trail – Cape Breton Highlands National Park

The Franey Trail is a popular classic in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. The 7.5-kilometre (4.6 mi) loop leads through colourful mixed forests to a particularly beautiful viewpoint across the hills, bays and fishing villages of northern Nova Scotia.

The trailhead is just a five-minute detour from the Cabot Trail, one of North America's most spectacular roads. A varied nature trail leads uphill, passing two small lakes – ideal spots for a break.

After ascending for around 300 metres (1,000 ft), you’ll reach the hike’s high point, offering captivating views from the red Adirondack deckchair. The vista of the Clyburn River valley and the coast is simply magnificent. During the descent, rooty, rocky and soft terrain takes you back to the start.

Due to its easy accessibility and variety of landscapes, the small car park can fill up quickly during the summer and warmer autumn months, so it’s worth starting early. We recommend trekking poles for the descent.