Cape Breton Highlands National Park
, Culinary
, Fall
, Hiking
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, Spring

Franey Mountain & The Dancing Moose Café

Story by: Alicia Lake

Once again, your heart is pumping, you’re amazed and invigorated as you ascend to the top of Franey Mountain and your reward… a 360° view of the entire Clyburn Brook canyon and the Atlantic coastline from Cape Smokey to Ingonish! Simply breath-taking! 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 cliffs. The trail is 2-3 hours and a 7.5 km loop.

Pro-tip – Be prepared for a steep climb and rugged sections. Rating is difficult.

GPS Co-ordinates N 46° 39′ 38.8″ W 60° 25′ 22.1

Recommended Restaurant: The Dancing Moose Café – 42691 Cabot Trail, Birch Plain (30 min drive)

The sense of humour that the owners share comes out as soon as you drive in. They have created a fun youthful feel to this funky little spot in northern Cape Breton. The food is great and the service is fast.

Recommended Dish – Dutch Pannekoek – get it with bacon and/or apple cooked right in.

Pro tip – Stop here for breakfast and pick up some muffins for a snack along the trail.

A pie dusted with icing sugar, fresh fruit, and whipped cream

A woman holds a plate with a sandwich and salad

Alicia Lake | Local Culinary Ambassador

Alicia Lake is a lifelong resident of Victoria County, Cape Breton, and a self-proclaimed local food fanatic. She holds an MBA in Community Economic Development, as well as undergraduate degrees in Community Studies and Political Science. Alicia has a great deal of experience working in various areas of the local food sector and is extremely passionate about good food and the local food economy. Alicia is the founder of the Baddeck and Area Community Market, and the 50% Local Food Club. She is currently the Executive Director of the Pan Cape Breton Food Hub Co-op, an on-line marketplace for local foods in Cape Breton.