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Trip Code: NTE
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This itinerary is crafted for seasoned hikers ready to venture beyond the East Coast Trail’s popular routes, exploring Newfoundland’s stunning, lesser-traveled paths. Each day offers new discoveries—from serene forest trails near Topsail Beach to scenic quartz outcrops and lush cliffside meadows. A highlight, and a staff favorite, is the dramatic stretch from Cape St. Francis to Pouch Cove, offering breathtaking ocean views and a sense of true remoteness. Travel through historic landscapes with old salmon fishing spots and hidden coves as you soak up the rugged beauty of Conception Bay. Evenings are spent in cozy B&Bs in Pouch Cove and Bay Bulls, recharging for more adventures with chances to spot whales, seabirds, and wild berries. Key sights include Cape Spear, North America’s easternmost point, and sweeping views of St. John’s from Signal Hill. This journey immerses you in Newfoundland’s natural and cultural heritage, creating unforgettable memories and the chance to become an honorary Newfoundlander!
Moderate
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20kg of CO2-e PP per day
(117kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive St. John's
Welcome to the windy, colourful and boisterous capital of Newfoundland. You will need to find your way to your charming B&B in the centre of town (details are provided with your final documents). Spend the rest of the day exploring one of the oldest cities in North America, discovering its bright-painted heritage houses and buildings, restaurants, galleries and antique shops. Your accommodation is also close to the legendary nightlife and live music on George Street.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Topsail to Beachy Cove (Between 4-5 hrs, 10.4km/6.5mi)
After breakfast and a short transfer, you'll start your hike this day by setting off through some mature forest by the east end of Topsail Beach. You will soon encounter an optional out-and-back side trail up to Topsail Bluff. White Cliff Cove lies beyond on the main trail, featuring a massive quartz vein, then a scenic quartz outcrop near a stand of spruce that hugs the nearby cliff. The waters nearby were known to be a prime spot to net salmon during springtime during the mid-1800s. After passing mixed cliffside growth interspersed with deadwood and some massive boulders, you will emerge to a wide-open view of Conception Bay. From here you will cross rivulets, and the punchbowl-shaped Blackhole Cove, before turning inland and rejoining the woods. After completing the Saint Thomas Line community link (a 1.8km/1.1mi road section), the coastal path continues past Broad Cove and Squires Point to St. Philips Beach. Moving on from the beach will take you past hayfields overgrown with white spruce, woodland, some tangled growth and several grassy coastal heaths. A steep descent and ascent lead you forth to a scenic view of Jones Cove, along with some cliffside and ridge-line views. Further along, a descent to Beachy Cove brings you to a small, attractive beach, a short distance from your pickup location. From here you will be brought to a lovely B&B in Pouch Cove.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Cape St Francis (Between 4-8 hrs, 7-14km/4.3-8.6mi)
Today's hike is an out-and-back route from your B&B. This stretch of trail features steep hills, a rugged coastline, and sweeping ocean views, with the chance to spot whales and seabirds, especially in the summer. About halfway from the Biscan Cove trailhead, you'll find an ideal picnic spot and scenic viewpoint called Champs Lookout. The trail also passes through prime berry-picking areas and the remnants of the Cape St. Francis Lighthouse, along with a still-operational helicopter pad.
Day 4
Pouch Cove to Flatrock (Approx. 5-7hrs, 15.1km/9.4mi)
Today you'll be starting from your B&B in Pouch Cove, and passing Shoe Cove shortly, which was mostly used as a summer fishing station. Shoe Cove Road, constructed circa 1900, links the cove to the highway and allowed local families to homestead in the area nearby. After heading west and crossing Shoe Cove Brook, the trail continues along a traditional cow path through coastal woods on the cove's steep eastern slope. Cattle used to roam the community pasture nearby between the 1960s and the early 2000s, the early operational years of Shoe Cove's chief pasture. Lookout points and side trails along the day's route overlook Shoe Cove Island, exposed rock ledges and a few gorgeous waterfalls. You will reach Stiles Cove, where seals would haul up on sea ledges to rest and hunt in coves with streams frequented by salmon. Beyond this point are more wooded tracks, a known eagle's nest to keep an eye out for, and more sweeping views. You'll be shuttled to your B&B in Bay Bulls for the next two nights after you reach the Flatrock trailhead.
Day 5
Petty Harbour to Cape Spear (Approx 3.5-5.5hrs, 10.2km/6.3mi)
You will be picked up after breakfast and taken to the trailhead at Petty Harbour for your hike to Cape Spear, the most easterly point of the continent, in the shadow of the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador, and an iconic symbol of the province’s maritime history. Your hike will feature board-walked bog crossings, a variety of terrains, two river crossings and expansive views of deep swells rolling in across the Atlantic. Before you are transferred back to Bay Bulls, you have plenty of time to explore the Cape Spear Lighthouse, originally built in 1836 and rebuilt in 1955 using the active light of the original lighthouse.
Day 6
Logy Bay to St John's (4.5-6.5 hours, up to 12.7km/7.9mi)
A morning transfer awaits after breakfast to join this diverse coastal trail connecting Logy Bay with St. John’s. The trail features two significant elevation changes of 150 meters. Along the way, you'll enjoy stunning coastal vistas from atop Sugarloaf Head to the north, explore unique rock formations at the Skerries, and take in panoramic 360-degree views of St. John’s and Quidi Vidi from the Bawdens Highlands in the south. Be aware that the hiking trail and biking route, both well-marked, criss-cross up Bawdens Highland. After crossing White Hills and Bawdens Highland, Quidi Vidi Village offers a range of services for visitors and a community link to Signal Hill National Historic Site. The optional 175-meter climb up Signal Hill is well worth it, as viewers who have experienced the historic viewpoint will attest. You will be walking back to your St. John's hotel, whether you decided to take the more relaxing route directly from Quidi Vidi Village or to climb Signal Hill for the impressive views of the city harbour and surroundings. If you haven’t already, tonight may be the night to get ‘Screeched In’ on George Street and become an honorary Newfoundlander.
Meals: B,L
Day 7
Tour concludes
Services end after breakfast. We hope you enjoyed your stay at 'the Rock'!
Meals: B
You will be picked up after breakfast and taken to the trailhead at Petty Harbour for your hike to Cape Spear, the most easterly point of the continent, in the shadow of the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland and Labrador, and an iconic symbol of the province’s maritime history. Your hike will feature board-walked bog crossings, a variety of terrains, two river crossings and expansive views of deep swells rolling in across the Atlantic. Before you are transferred back to St John's, you have plenty of time to explore the Cape Spear Lighthouse, originally built in 1836 and rebuilt in 1955 using the active light of the original lighthouse.
Topsail to Beachy Cove (Between 4-5 hrs, 10.9km/6.8mi)
After breakfast and a short transfer, you'll start your hike this day by setting off through some mature forest by the east end of Topsail Beach. You will soon encounter an optional out-and-back side trail up to Topsail Bluff. White Cliff Cove lies beyond on the main trail, featuring a massive quartz vein, then a scenic quartz outcrop near a stand of spruce that hugs the nearby cliff. The waters nearby were known to be a prime spot to net salmon during springtime during the mid-1800s. After passing mixed cliffside growth interspersed with deadwood and some massive boulders, you will emerge to a wide-open view of Conception Bay. From here you will cross rivulets, and the punchbowl-shaped Blackhole Cove, before turning inland and rejoining the woods. After completing the Saint Thomas Line community link (a 1.8km/1.1mi road section), the coastal path continues past Broad Cove and Squires Point to St. Philips Beach. Moving on from the beach will take you past hayfields overgrown with white spruce, woodland, some tangled growth and several grassy coastal heaths. A steep descent and ascent lead you forth to a scenic view of Jones Cove, along with some cliffside and ridge-line views. Further along, a descent to Beachy Cove brings you to a small, attractive beach, a short distance from your pickup location. From here you will be brought to a lovely B&B in Pouch Cove for next three nights.
Today you'll be starting from your B&B in Pouch Cove, and passing Shoe Cove shortly, which was mostly used as a summer fishing station. Shoe Cove Road, constructed circa 1900, links the cove to the highway and allowed local families to homestead in the area nearby. After heading west and crossing Shoe Cove Brook, the trail continues along a traditional cow path through coastal woods on the cove's steep eastern slope. Cattle used to roam the community pasture nearby between the 1960s and the early 2000s, the early operational years of Shoe Cove's chief pasture. Lookout points and side trails along the day's route overlook Shoe Cove Island, exposed rock ledges and a few gorgeous waterfalls. You will reach Stiles Cove, where seals would haul up on sea ledges to rest and hunt in coves with streams frequented by salmon. Beyond this point are more wooded tracks, a known eagle's nest to keep an eye out for, and more sweeping views. You'll be shuttled back to your B&B in Pouch Cove.
What's included
What's not included
At the northeastern tip of the Avalon Peninsula, Great Canadian Trails’ exclusive oceanview B&B sits just steps from the East Coast Trail, offering sweeping Atlantic views and easy access to Newfoundland’s coastal paths. With cozy rooms, warm island hospitality, and a relaxed Maritime vibe, it’s more than a place to stay — it’s a place to feel at home.
Nestled in Bay Bulls, one of the oldest communities in North America, this locale delivers an amazing experience. Each room offers a breathtaking ocean view, enhancing your experience. Your stay includes curated meals at a modern-style restaurant centred on locally sourced ingredients.
The East Coast Trail is considered one of the world’s best coastal hikes. The trail covers a variety of terrain, and its location along the rugged coast of the Avalon Peninsula in Newfoundland is exposed to unpredictable weather variation. Each segment of the East Coast Trail is unique, offering a variety of trail surfaces and memorable experiences but potentially creating challenges that require sure footing and extra preparation.
You will encounter everything from relatively flat to short, steep sections. Mixed ascents and descents will range up to 150m / 492ft. Most of the walk is on well-marked trail with some boarded surfaces, exposed tree roots, and likely mud and/or rocks to tread over or around. Some sections of the East Coast Trail can get particularly slippery after rainy days, including stream crossing, we recommend using hiking poles. You will need suitable footwear with good support to avoid rolling ankles or encountering blisters. This is not a trip for breaking in new hiking boots! Be sure you have tried and tested your boots in wet conditions and over uneven terrain. Expect long hiking days as distances may vary from 8 to 16km (5 to 10 miles) per day with variable weather conditions. Be prepared for each day's weather by carrying a variety of gear appropriate for adverse weather (rain gear, windbreakers, sunscreen, long pants, etc.).
Moderate. Daily walks are between 8km and 16km on well marked trails over diverse and often rugged terrain – from relatively flat to short, steep sections. Most of the walk is on trail with some boarded surfaces, exposed tree roots, and likely mud and/or rocks to scramble over. You should pay particular attention to your footwear to ensure that it is suitable to avoid blisters and rolling ankles. This is not a trip for breaking in new hiking boots! Be sure you have tried and tested your boots in wet conditions and over uneven terrain. Route finding will be reasonably straightforward (refer to information regarding self guided adventures) but days are long and weather conditions will be variable. The main areas to concentrate on route finding are arriving and leaving towns and cities, and along rocky shores. The accent is on keeping a steady pace to take in all of the views, with time to stop and take photos. You will need a good level of fitness to participate fully in this adventure. Self guided walking requires individuals to use problem solving skills, be adaptable and have a keen eye. It is recommended that you are comfortable map reading, referring to route notes and that you have a good sense of direction (or are willing to work on improving this!) Sometimes route finding, losing your way, finding it again and asking the locals for help is all part of the adventure. If you’ve never been on a self guided trip, after the first couple of days you will get the hang of if as the vast majority of our first time travellers attest. Please be assured that our written material issued to you for route finding is updated regularly and we provide local contact information in the event of any problems. There is a certain level of the unknown that comes with self guided trips, however with a methodical approach potential problems will be averted. The freedom of a self guided trip is something that, once experienced, is sought time and time again.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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Everyone who works with us, from our office staff, ground staff and guides is the ‘’real deal’’. Our team is comprised of actual hikers and cyclists who have explored or live in the region in which you will be travelling. Our entire network is highly-specialised in active travel.
Quality services at the best price make our adventures great value for money. Having essential items included like National Park fees, charming accommodations, most meals, bikes for cycling trips, maps and support for peace of mind. Our inclusions allow you to better budget for your big adventure.
We look beyond the horizon to find new and exciting adventures. We’re passionate about shaping the next generation of outdoor travel in Canada, and constantly seek different ways, routes and alternatives to exceed our clients’ dreams.
We are committed to responsible travel and true sustainability, formed when the company was established, and in the face of a multitude of threats to the environment, our commitment is stronger than ever. We aim to "leave no trace" in both an environmental and cultural sense.
6Days
7Days
Introductory to Moderate
8Days