Why to visit East Coast Trail
The East Coast Trail is a coastal hike that takes you past towering cliffs and headlands, sea stacks, deep fjords, and the Spout, a natural wave-driven geyser. It allows visitors to see abandoned communities, lighthouses, ecological reserves, seabird colonies, whales, icebergs, the world's southernmost caribou herd, historic landmarks, a 50-meter suspension bridge, two active archaeological dig sites, and many more natural treasures.
Along the trail, which passes through abandoned settlements, ecological reserves, ancient villages and harbours, you'll likely see whales, moose, and icebergs. Each day, you'll walk 10 to 20 kilometres on well-marked routes through a variety of terrain, ranging from relatively flat to short, steep slopes.
The East Coast Trail links together 32 historic communities which provide services, such as accommodations, dining, transportation and entertainment. 265 kilometres of the Trail have been developed to a world class hiking standard- 45 km from Cape St. Francis south to historic St. John's, and 220 km from Fort Amherst, St. John's to Cappahayden on the beautiful southern shore.
The best time to hike the East Coast Trail is from April to November, when the trail is less likely to be covered in snow and ice and daylight hours are the longest.
