The East Coast Trail is a series of multiple trails that span over 300 kilometers of coastline along the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland. The trails range from easy to extremely difficult. Hikers are taken through a large range of terrain conditions and stunning views.
Linds and I recently had the opportunity to hike the Sugarloaf Path; an approximately 10-kilometer section of the East Coast Trail. This trail starts in Quidi Vidi village and runs along the coast to the Ocean Science Center in Logy Bay. Sugarloaf boasts some pretty incredible views of Newfoundland’s unique coastline.
The hike can be challenging in areas, as there are many inclines and some of them are pretty steep. We hiked at a brisk pace for a good, cardio-intense, muscle tiring workout. We definitely recommend bringing a couple bottles of water and a light snack (we chose apples and they did the trick). For an even greater workout, stop about halfway and do an exercise circuit from Linds’ Worldwide Workout!
Despite the rough terrain, Sugarloaf Path can be taken at a more relaxed, leisurely pace perhaps with a picnic break at one of the several viewpoints along the trail. Our favourite was where the jutting coastline created pools of turquoise water where the waves crashed into the rocks. Absolutely breathtaking!
Sugarloaf Path will immerse you into nature for a few hours with limited cell service- a fantastic opportunity to practice mindfulness; keeping yourself in the moment, letting go of your thoughts, and enjoying the scenery. Our hike provided us with time as long-distance friends to catch up and discuss our dreams and ambitions. We chatted about how incredible it would be to hike the entire East Coast Trail one day; or even the Pacific Coast Trail or Inca Trail!
Keep an eye out for what I would guess is an old gun battery from the war, which would have helped carefully protect St. John’s Harbour from enemy vessels. The well-hidden room is now grown over and covered with graffiti inside. Along the trail, you will also cross a bridge that leads you over a bright orange river! It gets its unique colour from a high concentration of iron in the water.
There are so many paths along the East Coast Trail to enjoy. I am eager to try them all! Which paths have you tried? Let us know in the comments below!
Check out the other ECT paths we’ve tackled:
I haven’t hiked any of the East Coast Trail as I’ve never had an interest in hiking until this year and I no longer live in the area. I recently did the Skerwink Trail in Port Rexton, though, and that one is beautiful as well.
Thank you for reading our article Janine! We have recently hiked Skerwink as well, I agree that it is absolutely beautiful. You can expect an article about it very soon, so stay tuned! 🙂
It looks like a beautiful hike (and a bit difficult). I always think that I like hiking until I actually go hiking… and then I wonder why exactly it is that I thought it was a good idea. Hasn’t stopped me from doing some wonderful trails though 🙂
Hi Karlie! It was absolutely stunning and 100% worth the sore muscles (haha)! We love your adventurous spirit & willingness to take on a challenge! Happy Hiking! For even more exclusive content, tips & tricks sign up for our newsletter. 🙂