Franey is one of the hiking trails that show you what Cape Breton is all about - rolling mountains, fall colours, and cool ocean scenes. You climb up and up and your reward is at the top! Large flat rocks give you a nice place to sit and enjoy the views - you can look out over the open ocean from Cape Smokey in the east to Money Point in the north, with the Middle Head Peninsula jutting out into the Atlantic directly below. The mountains in this region of Cape Breton Highlands National Park roll one into the other, forming a virtual sea of vegetation. Steep high mountains such as Cape Smokey and lush fertile valleys such as the Clyburn litter this area. Climbing 330 metres in only four kilometres, this mountain hike is quite steep in areas. As part of the park the trail is well kept and safe. Stairs have been constructed in some of the steeper portions of the trail but that does not mean it is easy. The climb is well worth it. When you reach the top the brush opens up to the former site of a fire tower. Here you will find a large outcrop of flat rock perfect for enjoying a snack or sitting and taking in the sights below. From here you can see the eastern coast of Cape Breton, the valley river far below, and, if visited in early October, a sea of reds, oranges, and yellows. Gaze back at the mountains, the sheer rocky face of Franey Mountain, or the river winding through the valley, 425 m below. Keep an eye out for wildlife - moose like this habitat too. Caution: Keep young children away from the steep cliffs. To get to Franey turn off the Cabot Trail just north of the Clyburn River and follow the fire access road for about a kilometre to a small parking lot. This trail is not suitable for all hikers. The steep climb requires a good fitness level and the trail can be rough in spots. The trail length is 7.4 km (4.6 mi) return. Visit our website for further details.