East Coast Trail Deadman's Bay Path
A rugged and scenic coastal hike on Newfoundland's East Coast Trail, offering dramatic ocean vistas and a challenging, rewarding experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
East Coast Trail Deadman's Bay Path
Best Time
Pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A rugged and scenic coastal hike on Newfoundland's East Coast Trail, offering dramatic ocean vistas and a challenging, rewarding experience.
"The general trail is beautiful, quiet and the water basin at the basic is pretty good to view."
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Ankle-twisting terrain and wet spots make hiking boots a must. Runners might suffice if dry, but boots offer better support.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The hike can be strenuous, especially uphill. Stay hydrated on this beautiful but challenging trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Deadman's Bay Coastal Views
Along the path
Dramatic ocean vistas and rugged coastline await. The perfect spot for sunset photos.
Freshwater Bay Beach
End of the path
A secluded beach offering a peaceful spot to rest and enjoy the ocean's edge.
Rocky Ascent & Descent
Various sections
Experience the invigorating challenge of steep, rocky terrain that rewards with stunning views.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Tackle the Terrain
Timing is Everything
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Ankle-twisting terrain and wet spots make hiking boots a must. Runners might suffice if dry, but boots offer better support.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The hike can be strenuous, especially uphill. Stay hydrated on this beautiful but challenging trail.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The coastal views are breathtaking at sunset. Plan your hike to catch the golden hour light.
🫐 Berry Picking Bonus
In season, you might find delicious wild blueberries along the path. Enjoy a natural snack!
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Ankle-twisting terrain and wet spots make hiking boots a must. Runners might suffice if dry, but boots offer better support.
💧 Pack Plenty of Water
The hike can be strenuous, especially uphill. Stay hydrated on this beautiful but challenging trail.
🌅 Chase the Sunset
The coastal views are breathtaking at sunset. Plan your hike to catch the golden hour light.
🫐 Berry Picking Bonus
In season, you might find delicious wild blueberries along the path. Enjoy a natural snack!
🌬️ Be Prepared for Wind
Coastal trails can be very windy. Dress in layers and be mindful of gusts, especially near cliffs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Deadman's Bay Path for its stunning coastal scenery and rewarding challenge, especially for sunset views. However, many find the trail to be very rocky and steep, requiring good hiking boots and a decent level of fitness. Some describe it as difficult, particularly the uphill return.
"This is a 30 min or so walk with enough elevation between the water and road that it's a little intense. Also a lot of the path is quite rocky. The general trail is beautiful, quiet and the water basin at the basic is pretty good to view."
Chris Hahn
"Decent little hike to Freshwater Bay and back. A casual 40 min hike downhill to the Freshwater Bay beach, and slightly longer back up. Trail is quite rocky, moderate difficulty. You can get away with using runners if it hasn't rained recently, but hiking boots would be helpful with the ankle-twisting terrain and small wet portions. There's one outhouse near the Freshwater Bay beach."
Scott Whitehouse
"This trail is very difficult in my opinion. Very rocky and steep. it is all downhill going to the water but on the way back I felt sick lol ( it is very steep uphill )it’s so difficult. and it is very hot/ no breeze."
Katelyn Marie
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Deadman's Bay Path is part of the larger East Coast Trail in Newfoundland and Labrador. Access points can vary, but it's often linked with trailheads like Cape Spear or Freshwater Bay. Driving is the most common way to reach trail access points, with parking available at designated areas. Check local trail maps for specific directions to your chosen starting point.
Public transportation options directly to remote East Coast Trail trailheads are limited. It's generally recommended to have a car for flexibility. Some local taxi services might be available in nearby towns like St. John's, but booking in advance is advised.
Popular starting points include Cape Spear, the easternmost point of North America, or Freshwater Bay. The choice depends on whether you want a longer hike or a shorter, more focused experience.
Yes, sections of the East Coast Trail are accessible from St. John's, with some paths connecting to the city's outskirts. However, Deadman's Bay Path is a bit further out, typically requiring a drive.
While not widely advertised, some local tour operators or private services might offer shuttle options for specific sections of the East Coast Trail. It's best to research and book these in advance if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the East Coast Trail is generally free to access and hike. It's a public trail system maintained by volunteers and the East Coast Trail Association. Donations are always welcome to support trail maintenance.
The East Coast Trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, hiking during daylight hours is strongly recommended for safety and enjoyment.
There is no entrance fee for the Deadman's Bay Path or any part of the East Coast Trail. Enjoy the natural beauty for free!
Winter hiking is possible but comes with increased risks due to snow, ice, and shorter daylight hours. Proper gear and experience are essential.
No permits are required for day hiking on the East Coast Trail. For overnight camping or group events, specific permissions might be needed, so check with the East Coast Trail Association.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The time can vary greatly depending on your fitness level and whether you're doing an out-and-back or a one-way hike. A common estimate for a moderate pace on a significant section is 2-5 hours. Some reviews mention a 40-minute casual hike to Freshwater Bay and back. +1
Reviews suggest it's a moderate to difficult trail. It's characterized by steep, rocky ascents and descents. Some find it very challenging, while others with good fitness and appropriate footwear enjoy it. +1
Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended due to the rocky and potentially wet terrain. Layers of clothing are advisable as coastal weather can change quickly. Waterproof outer layers are also a good idea. +1
Yes, there is an outhouse located near the Freshwater Bay beach. Other facilities are scarce, so plan accordingly.
While some beginners have enjoyed it, the steep and rocky nature makes it challenging. It's best suited for those with some hiking experience or a good level of fitness.
📸 📸 Photography
The dramatic coastal cliffs, ocean vistas, and the rugged shoreline offer stunning photographic subjects. Sunsets here are particularly spectacular.
The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset provide the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers beautiful views.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal scenery. A sturdy tripod can be useful for low-light conditions or long exposures of the waves.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check current rules and regulations for national parks and protected areas in Newfoundland and Labrador before flying a drone.
Absolutely! Modern smartphones have excellent cameras. Focus on composition and lighting to capture the stunning natural beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If you do attempt longer sections with older children, ensure they have appropriate footwear and are prepared for the physical demands. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider the weather conditions. The outhouse at Freshwater Bay is a useful amenity for families.
💰 Budget Travelers
Your main expenses will be transportation to the trailhead and any food or water you bring. For accommodation, consider camping options or budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses in nearby St. John's if you plan a longer stay.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain: What to Expect
Despite the difficulty, the trail offers immense rewards. The coastal scenery is breathtaking, with dramatic cliffs and expansive ocean views. Many visitors find the effort well worth it for the opportunity to experience such raw, natural beauty. It's a trail that demands respect for its ruggedness but delivers an unforgettable hiking experience for those prepared.
For those planning their hike, consider the weather conditions. The coast is exposed, and wind can be a significant factor. Dressing in layers and being prepared for changing conditions will enhance your comfort and safety on the trail.
Connecting to the East Coast Trail Network
Hikers often use the Deadman's Bay Path as part of a multi-day adventure or a challenging day hike. For instance, completing the path from Deadman's Bay to Cape Spear can take around 5 hours one-way and offers a substantial hiking experience. The trail's integration into the broader ECT network means that with careful planning, you can string together multiple paths for an extended exploration of the coastline.
Understanding its place within the ECT is key to planning. Trail maps and guides for the entire East Coast Trail system are available, which can help you identify access points, distances, and difficulty ratings for various segments, including Deadman's Bay.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit