Franey is a classic Cape Breton Highlands hike — steep climbs, rolling mountain views, and the kind of scenery you don’t forget. This 7.4 km loop gains about 330 metres, with stairs on the steepest sections to help you along. The trail winds through hardwood forest before opening to the site of an old fire tower, where a wide rock outcrop offers a perfect spot for a break. From here, you can see the Clyburn Valley far below, the Atlantic coast stretching out, and, in fall, a sea of red, orange, and gold. The descent follows the old ranger’s road for a gentler return. It’s a workout, but the views are worth every step.
