Franey Path Hike in Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park

When you’re planning to go to Nova Scotia, Cape Breton is greater than well worth the journey! Do you know that Nova Scotia is dwelling to 2 of Canada’s nationwide parks? Cape Breton Highlands is a tremendous place and the Franey Path hike is likely one of the greatest hikes in NS. As a born and raised Bluenoser, I might go on and on… however it’s best to go and see for your self!

Franey Path in Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park. Picture: Jess Langille

I like visiting Cape Breton. I grew up within the Annapolis Valley, just a few hours away, however hadn’t reached the island till 2019 (after I hiked Fishing Cove). Now, I can’t get sufficient of Cape Breton and love exploring right here, particularly in the summertime and autumn months. When you’re in search of a average hike with wide-open views, take a look at the Franey Path hike in Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park. I don’t suppose you’ll be disenchanted.

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About Franey Path — Cape Breton Highlands

Parks Canada crimson chairs — nice views!

Location: Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park, close to Ingonish, Nova Scotia
Distance: 8 km loop
Issue: Average
Elevation: 90 metre elevation acquire
Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Household-Pleasant: Sure, however not stroller-friendly.
Canine-friendly: Sure, however canines should stay on a leash.
Options: The Franey Path Hike is likely one of the hottest trails in Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park. Climbing by way of Acadian forest and topping out at a scenic summit, this path delivers spectacular views of Clyburn Brook Canyon and the Atlantic Ocean. I’d say the reward-to-effort ratio makes this the most effective hikes in Nova Scotia!

Girl’s slippers beside the path.

Franey Path Map

Instructions to Franey Path – Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park

Data signal on the trailhead.

To succeed in the Franey Trailhead, head towards Ingonish on the japanese aspect of Cape Breton Island and switch off the Cabot Path onto Franey Street—an unpaved street that results in a small gravel parking zone (Google Maps instructions). When you’re driving from Cheticamp, count on a couple of 2-hour journey, whereas the drive from Sydney takes roughly 2.5 hours. Parking is free with a sound Parks Canada go, and there’s a big parking space.

Learn subsequent: Your Full Information to Fishing Cove Path in Cape Breton

Franey Path was underneath building final 12 months.

Franey Mountain climbing Path — Standard Cape Breton Hike

Average hike by way of the forest.

Franey Path climbs progressively by way of a blended hardwood forest earlier than opening to rocky cliffs and awe-inspiring views. I might name the primary half basic East Coast forest climbing—quiet, lush, and shaded, with sufficient incline to maintain issues attention-grabbing. However the true magic occurs on the high, the place the path rewards your effort with a shocking panoramic lookout. Sit down in considered one of Parks Canada’s crimson Adirondack chairs and take in the view.

From the summit, you’ll be able to see the Clyburn Brook Canyon down beneath, Cape Smokey off within the distance, and naturally, the Atlantic Ocean stretching towards the horizon. I can’t get sufficient of those highland views rolling in each route. When you’re visiting throughout peak season, attempt to arrive early to keep away from crowds and have the summit to your self. Hanging out on the granite outcrop is spectacular—however watch your step close to the sting. Relying in your climbing expertise and health stage, be ready for 2 to three hours to finish this 8 km loop.

Clyburn Brook Canyon viewpoint. Picture: Jess Langille
Rugged climbing path — watch the roots and rocks!
Picket bridge over a brook.
A number of staircases to the summit.
Nothing like a water break on a scorching sizzling day. Picture: Jess Langille

Know Earlier than You Go

Rubbish and recycling bins on the trailhead.

Park Move: A sound Parks Canada Discovery Move or every day entry allow is required to entry Cape Breton Highlands Nationwide Park. You should purchase your go on-line or on the Parks Canada Customer Centre in Ingonish.

Parking: The gravel parking zone is free to make use of with a park go and sometimes has sufficient house for a number of autos, however can refill throughout peak season.

Bathroom: There’s an outhouse rest room beside the parking space. You’ll discover flush bathrooms on the Ingonish Customer Centre, only a brief drive away.

Pets: Canines are allowed however should be leashed always. Remember to pack out waste in a smell-proof bag (don’t go away poop baggage on the path…).

Wildlife: Cape Breton Highlands is dwelling to quite a lot of wildlife, together with moose, coyotes, and black bears (although encounters are unusual). By no means strategy or feed wildlife.

Security: Franey is a average path however has steep sections and uncovered viewpoints close to the summit. Put on sturdy footwear, convey water and snacks, and carry a first assist package. If climbing alone, let somebody know your route and anticipated return time.

What To Deliver: Don’t overlook to pack the 10 Mountain climbing Necessities.

Navigation: The path is well-marked and straightforward to observe, nevertheless it’s at all times a good suggestion to have backup navigation. I downloaded Franey Path on AllTrails. You too can choose up a path map from the Customer Centre.

Learn subsequent: Uisge Bàn Falls Hike on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

You’re coming into coyote habitat.