Hey there, fellow adventurers! Donny Love here from Adventures Unknown, and if you share my passion for rugged landscapes, untamed trails, and the authentic Newfoundland spirit, then you’re about to embark on an exciting journey. Today, I’m excited to share my personal list of the top 12 hiking trails in Newfoundland and Labrador. Over the years, I’ve trekked countless paths, each offering its own unique charm and challenges. In this guide, I’ll take you on a journey through my favorite trails, share insider tips, and sprinkle in local flavor to help you plan your own adventure.
So, lace up your hiking boots, pack a hearty snack, and come along as I guide you through some of the most breathtaking trails that this wild and wonderful province has to offer.
Hiking in Newfoundland and Labrador evokes a truly magical experience. Perhaps it’s the raw, unfiltered beauty of rugged coastlines meeting the mighty Atlantic, or maybe it’s the deep sense of history and community that echoes along every trail. For me, each hike is a journey into the heart of this province—a chance to connect with nature, breathe in the salty air, and feel the pulse of a land that’s as unpredictable as it is captivating.
I remember one early morning, as I set off on a trail near St. John’s, the sky was painted in pastel hues, and the crisp air was filled with the gentle hum of seagulls. I paused to take it all in, and in that moment, I felt more connected to Newfoundland than ever before. These are the experiences that make hiking here so special—every step feels like a conversation with nature itself.
The East Coast Trail is one of Newfoundland’s most famous hiking routes, and Section 3—from Cape Spear to Petty Harbour—is a personal favorite of mine. This section combines dramatic ocean views, historic sites, and quiet, reflective moments along the rugged coastline.
I’ll never forget the first time I hiked this section. Standing at Cape Spear, I felt the weight of history—the very edge of North America. The wind was fierce, and as I walked along the rocky path, the sound of the crashing waves provided the perfect soundtrack. Reaching Petty Harbour later in the day, I marveled at the blend of natural beauty and the simple charm of local outports.
Maps: Download a digital map of the East Coast Trail or pick one up at a local visitor center in St. John’s.
Signal Hill, a historic site in the heart of St. John’s, not only provides panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic but also serves as a poignant reminder of Newfoundland’s rich past. The Signal Hill Loop is a brief yet challenging hike that evokes strong emotions.
I’ve hiked Signal Hill Loop more times than I can count. One crisp autumn morning, I made the climb just as the sun was beginning to warm the horizon. Reaching the summit, I was rewarded with a breathtaking view of the entire city—a sea of colorful rooftops against the blue expanse of the Atlantic. It’s a place where history, nature, and the energy of urban life all converge.
Local Insight: Ask around—locals often share the best shortcuts and secret viewpoints that aren’t marked on standard maps.
Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a natural wonder of Newfoundland. The Tablelands Trail offers a unique glimpse into the geological history of the island, with landscapes that seem almost alien in their rugged beauty.
Hiking the Tablelands Trail felt like a journey through time. The trail winds through a barren, almost lunar landscape, showcasing the earth’s raw power. I remember pausing at a lookout point, completely awestruck by the sight of jagged rock formations stretching as far as the eye could see. The silence here is profound—broken only by the occasional call of a distant bird or the crunch of my boots on the rocky path.
Weather: Dress in layers; temperatures can drop unexpectedly, especially at higher elevations.
Terra Nova National Park is a gem that combines coastal beauty with dense, lush forests. The Lookout Trail is one of my favorites here, offering stunning views of the park’s diverse landscapes and the expansive Atlantic beyond.
I embarked on the Lookout Trail on a clear, sunny day, and it quickly became one of my most memorable hikes. The path meanders through thick forests where the scent of pine and fresh earth is intoxicating. After a steady climb, I emerged onto a broad ledge that offered an unobstructed view of the park below. The blend of rugged coastline, verdant forest, and the glistening ocean created a tableau that felt almost surreal.
For a truly authentic Newfoundland experience, the Cape St. Mary’s Coastal Trail is a must. This trail winds along dramatic coastlines, offering intimate views of the Atlantic and the rugged outport lifestyle that defines this part of the province.
Walking the Cape St. Mary’s Coastal Trail is like stepping into a living postcard. I recall an afternoon when the tide was low, and the exposed rocks revealed intricate patterns carved by the relentless ocean. As I trekked along the narrow path, the salty breeze carried the sound of distant gulls and the occasional echo of a local fisherman’s call. It was a sensory overload in the best possible way—raw, real, and deeply moving.
Venturing up to the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula, the Quirpon Nature Trail offers an entirely different experience. This trail takes you through expansive boreal forests and along rugged coastlines, showcasing the wild, untamed beauty of this northern frontier.
My hike on the Quirpon Nature Trail was a profound journey into solitude. The dense forests, with their towering evergreens and soft carpet of moss, felt like a sanctuary away from the world’s chaos. I remember pausing at a clearing where the silence was overwhelming—in that quiet, I could hear my own heartbeat and the gentle rustle of the forest. It’s moments like these that make you realize how vast and peaceful the Northern Peninsula is.
The Bay of Islands Trail is one of those hidden gems that offers a blend of coastal scenery and inland wilderness. This trail winds its way along the shores of the Bay of Islands, presenting an ever-changing landscape of tidal flats, rocky coves, and lush greenery.
I embarked on the Bay of Islands Trail on a breezy summer day, and it was an adventure filled with surprises. The trail led me through dense thickets and along narrow coastal paths where the ocean’s rhythm was a constant companion. One of my favorite moments was pausing at a secluded viewpoint to watch the sun dip into the bay, painting the sky with vibrant oranges and purples. It was a reminder that every hike here is not just a physical journey but a soulful experience.
The Red Bay Trail is steeped in history, taking you through areas that were once bustling with the activity of the Basque whaling industry. This trail isn’t just about natural beauty—it’s also a walk through time, offering insights into Newfoundland’s rich maritime past.
Hiking the Red Bay Trail was like stepping into a history book. I recall exploring the ruins of old whaling stations and imagining the busy days when crews would brave the icy waters of the North Atlantic. As I trekked through the remnants of these historical sites, I felt a deep connection to the stories of those who once lived and worked here. It’s a trail that challenges both the body and the mind, prompting reflection on the passage of time and the evolution of coastal life.
Rocky Harbour, a small community with a vibrant personality, showcases the wild beauty of Newfoundland’s coastal edges through its Clifftop Trail. This trail offers a rugged, exhilarating hike along steep cliffs that drop dramatically into the foaming Atlantic.
I remember the rush of adrenaline as I tackled the Rocky Harbour Clifftop Trail. The path was narrow in places, with breathtaking drop-offs on either side. Yet, every step was rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the rugged coastline and the ever-changing moods of the sea. It was a hike that made me feel both vulnerable and incredibly alive—a true embodiment of Newfoundland’s raw spirit.
Rounding out my list is the Westport Coastal Trail, a hidden gem that offers a blend of lush forests and dramatic seascapes. This trail meanders along the coast near Westport, inviting hikers to explore secluded beaches and verdant glades interspersed with rugged shorelines.
The Westport Coastal Trail is one of those hikes where every turn brings a new surprise. I vividly remember a stretch where the trail opened up to reveal a secluded cove, its sands glistening under the afternoon sun. I spent some time there, just soaking in the view and listening to the rhythmic sound of the waves. It was a peaceful moment that encapsulated the simple, unspoiled beauty of Newfoundland’s coastal life.
Before I wrap up, let me share some practical advice that I’ve gathered from years of trekking these diverse trails:
These are the top hiking trails in Newfoundland and Labrador that have profoundly impacted my soul. Each trail, from the historic paths of the East Coast Trail to the rugged cliffs of Rocky Harbour, offers a unique window into the diverse, untamed beauty of this province. More than just physical routes, these hikes are journeys into the heart of Newfoundland—a place where nature, history, and culture converge in the most breathtaking ways.
Many of these trails have been featured in my television series Adventures Unknown. Every time I laced up my boots and set off on a new trail, I have been reminded of the profound connection I have with this land. It’s a connection forged through countless early mornings, shared meals with friendly locals, and moments of quiet reflection as I stand before the majesty of the Atlantic. And I want you to experience that too.
So, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a curious traveler ready to take your first step, I invite you to join me on these adventures. Explore the trails, immerse yourself in the local culture, and let the landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador tell their timeless story. Trust me, the journey will be as rewarding as the destination.
Thank you for joining me on this virtual tour of my favorite hiking trails. I hope my personal insights, tips, and stories inspire you to pack your gear and hit the trails. I’d love to hear about your adventures—drop a comment below, share your photos with AdventuresUnknown on social media, or drop me a line at my email address below. Together, let’s keep the spirit of exploration alive and share the incredible beauty of Newfoundland and Labrador with the world.
Until next time, happy hiking, keep exploring, and remember: every trail is a new adventure waiting to be discovered!
Donny Love,
Adventures Unknown
donny@adventuresunknown.ca
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