If you’re planning to visit Nova Scotia, Cape Breton is more than worth the trip! Did you know that Nova Scotia is home to two of Canada’s national parks? Cape Breton Highlands is an amazing place and the Franey Trail hike is one of the best hikes in NS. As a born and raised Bluenoser, I could go on and on… but you should go and see for yourself!
I love visiting Cape Breton. I grew up in the Annapolis Valley, only a few hours away, but hadn’t reached the island until 2019 when I hiked Fishing Cove. Now, I can’t get enough of Cape Breton and love exploring here, especially in the summer and autumn months. If you’re looking for a moderate hike with wide-open views, check out the Franey Trail hike in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. You won’t be disappointed.
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Franey Trail Map (Cape Breton Highlands National Park)
About the Franey Trail Hike
Location: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, near Ingonish, Nova Scotia
Distance: 8 km loop
Difficulty: Moderate
Elevation: 90 metre elevation gain
Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Family-Friendly: Yes, but not stroller-friendly.
Dog-friendly: Yes, but dogs must remain on a leash.
Features: The Franey Trail Hike is one of the most popular trails in Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Climbing through Acadian forest and topping out at a scenic summit, this trail delivers impressive views of Clyburn Brook Canyon and the Atlantic Ocean. I’d say the reward-to-effort ratio makes this one of the best hikes in Nova Scotia!
How To Get To the Franey Trailhead
To reach the Franey Trailhead, head toward Ingonish on the eastern side of Cape Breton Island and turn off the Cabot Trail onto Franey Road. It’s an unpaved road that leads to a small gravel parking lot. If you’re driving from Cheticamp, expect about a 2-hour trip, while the drive from Sydney takes roughly 2.5 hours. Parking is free with a valid Parks Canada pass, and there’s a large parking area.
Read next: Your Complete Guide to Fishing Cove Trail in Cape Breton
Franey Trail Hike — One of the Most Popular Hikes in Cape Breton
Franey Trail climbs gradually through a mixed hardwood forest before opening to rocky cliffs and awe-inspiring views. I would call the first half classic East Coast forest hiking. It’s quiet, lush, and shaded, with enough incline to keep things interesting. But the real magic happens at the top, where the trail rewards your effort with a stunning panoramic lookout. Take a seat in one of Parks Canada’s red Adirondack chairs and soak up the view.
From the summit, you can see the Clyburn Brook Canyon down below, Cape Smokey off in the distance, and of course, the Atlantic Ocean stretching toward the horizon. I can’t get enough of these highland views rolling in every direction. If you’re visiting during peak season, try to arrive early to avoid crowds and have the summit to yourself. Hanging out on the granite outcrop is spectacular, but watch your step near the edge. Depending on your hiking experience and fitness level, be prepared for 2 to 3 hours to complete this 8 km loop.
Know Before You Go
Park Pass: A valid Parks Canada Discovery Pass or daily entry permit is required to access Cape Breton Highlands National Park. You can purchase your pass online or at the Parks Canada Visitor Centre in Ingonish.
Parking: The gravel parking lot is free to use with a park pass and typically has enough space for several vehicles, but can fill up during peak season.
Toilet: There is an outhouse toilet beside the parking area. You’ll find flush toilets at the Ingonish Visitor Centre, just a short drive away.
Pets: Dogs are allowed but must be leashed at all times. Be sure to pack out waste in a smell-proof bag (please, don’t leave poop bags on the trail…).
Wildlife: Cape Breton Highlands is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, coyotes, and black bears (though encounters are uncommon). Never approach or feed wildlife.
Safety: Franey is a moderate trail but has steep sections and exposed viewpoints near the summit. Wear sturdy footwear, bring a water bottle and snacks, and carry a small first aid kit. If hiking alone, let someone know your route and expected return time.
Navigation: The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, but it’s always a good idea to have backup navigation. I downloaded Franey Trail on AllTrails. You can also pick up a trail map from the Visitor Centre.
Read next: Uisge Bàn Falls Hike on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
More Cape Breton Island Hikes
Are you looking for more Cape Breton hikes? Here are some for your list:
- Tenerife Mountain Hike in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
- Humes River Falls Hike on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
- North River Falls Hike in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia
- Your Complete Guide to Fishing Cove Trail in Cape Breton
Have you experienced Franey Trail in Cape Breton Highlands? What was your experience like? Leave a comment below!
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Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
