The East Coast Trail on the island of Newfoundland, runs from Cape St. Francis in the north to Cappahayden in the south, a distance of 265 kilometres. The trail follows the rugged coast via a series of 24 connected paths, each with its own northern and southern trailhead. The Spurwink Island Path is one of the 24 trails.
I joined a group of 18 people led by a volunteer from the East Coast Trail and hiked the Spurwink Island trail one June day under cloudy skies. It’s a must do hike if you’re in Newfoundland.
Most of the trailheads for the East Coast Trail are an easy drive away from St. John’s, so it’s possible to do them as a day trip, at least if you have a car shuttle.
The Spurwink Island Path – one of the difficult sections of the East Coast Trail
The Spurwink Island Path is one of the difficult sections that make up the East Coast Trail. The one way section of trail is 17 kilometres long. Although there aren’t huge ups and downs, it’s certainly what I would describe as rugged.
Much of the trail is in the woods – which I never like as much as the full on coastal hiking experience. Fortunately, once we hit our lunch spot at the Berry Head sea arch (a real highlight on the trail), the trail became way more scenic.
And the hike was always interesting because of the conversations one had with a diverse group of people from all over the world. Anyone can join a weekend hike, if you’re prepared to sign a waiver. And for out of town visitors, there is always the option of carpooling out of St. John’s.
The Spurwink Island Path starts by the Aquaforte River near Hagan’s Hospitality Home. The southern trailhead is at the back of the church in Port Kirwan.
Here’s a look at what the Spurwink Island Path offers the hiker
Want to do the whole East Coast Trail?
It’s possible to hike the whole East Coast Trail over 10 – 14 days. Check out Trail Connections if you want help with organizing accommodation and trip logistics.
If you’re heading out even for just a day on the Spurwink Island Path, go prepared for all kinds of weather. A pair of poles and gaiters comes in handy too.
For an offline hiking app I recommend Organic Maps.
Further reading on things to do in Newfoundland
- A Hike to the Summit of Gros Morne Mountain
- Biking the Viking Trail: Deer Lake to St Anthony
- Hiking the Alexander Murray Trail in King’s Point
- What to do on a Trip to Fogo Island, Newfoundland
- Hiking the Skerwink Trail near Trinity, Newfoundland
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