East Coast Trail North Head Trail
A challenging yet rewarding coastal hike on Newfoundland's East Coast Trail, offering dramatic ocean vistas and rugged terrain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best views, fewer crowds
East Coast Trail North Head Trail
Best Time
Best views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A challenging yet rewarding coastal hike on Newfoundland's East Coast Trail, offering dramatic ocean vistas and rugged terrain.
"Gorgeous but not easy… many steps and very uneven paths. Great if you’re in shape and have solid ankles."
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking boots with good ankle support are a must due to uneven terrain and stairs .
🚶♀️ Trekking Poles Help
Poles provide stability on steep sections and rocky scrambles, especially if steps are damaged .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Coastal Vistas
Breathtaking ocean views with waves crashing against rugged cliffs. Perfect for photography!
Steep Staircases
Challenging but rewarding climbs offering unique perspectives of the coastline.
Rocky Scrambles
Sections requiring a bit of climbing over rocks add an adventurous element to the hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Trail Conditions & Gear
Timing & Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking boots with good ankle support are a must due to uneven terrain and stairs.
🚶♀️ Trekking Poles Help
Poles provide stability on steep sections and rocky scrambles, especially if steps are damaged.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! Take your time to navigate technical parts and enjoy the scenic viewpoints.
⚠️ Be Aware of Trail Conditions
Some steps and planks may be damaged; proceed with caution.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Hiking boots with good ankle support are a must due to uneven terrain and stairs.
🚶♀️ Trekking Poles Help
Poles provide stability on steep sections and rocky scrambles, especially if steps are damaged.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! Take your time to navigate technical parts and enjoy the scenic viewpoints.
⚠️ Be Aware of Trail Conditions
Some steps and planks may be damaged; proceed with caution.
📸 Plenty of Photo Ops
Numerous viewpoints offer stunning shots of the ocean and coastline.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the North Head Trail's stunning coastal views and challenging, rewarding terrain. While some sections require careful navigation due to disrepair, the dramatic scenery and sense of accomplishment make it a highly recommended hike for those prepared for its technical nature.
"There is no billing on this trail. Important because trail forks and government sites list it as bikable. See photos. Nice views and great spot but not for bikes. Parking. Busy on Sunday. Cute harbor right there."
John Barr
"Gorgeous but not easy… many steps and very uneven paths. Great if you’re in shape and have solid ankles. Wear the right gear."
Tati Anna
"Beautiful views all along, moderate but technical. Some scrambling up rocks and steep stairs but doable for any moderately fit person. Hiking boots and hiking pole recommended. Good signage. Some steps and planks in disrepair but totally doable. We only did the first couple km of this 8 km trail (out and back total of 16 km), but views were gorgeous and worth it."
Katia Jesson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The North Head Trail is accessible from Signal Hill in St. John's, Newfoundland. You can reach Signal Hill by car or public transport. Bus route 15 stops nearby, with about a 10-15 minute walk to the trail entrance.
Yes, parking is available at Signal Hill, which is the starting point for the North Head Trail. It can get busy on Sundays.
Yes, you can take bus route 15 to get close to the trail. From the bus stop, it's a short 10-15 minute walk to the trailhead.
The North Head Trail is generally not suitable for cycling due to its technical terrain, steep stairs, and rocky sections. Some government sites may incorrectly list it as bikable.
The East Coast Trail is best experienced by hiking. Different sections offer varied scenery, from coastal cliffs to forests. The North Head Trail is a popular choice for its dramatic views.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is no admission fee or billing required for the North Head Trail. It is a public trail accessible to everyone.
The East Coast Trail is a public trail system and does not have entrance fees. You can access most sections for free.
The North Head Trail is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, always check local conditions, especially during winter or adverse weather, as sections might be temporarily closed.
Yes, the East Coast Trail is a long-distance hiking trail that can be hiked in sections or as a multi-day backpacking trip. The North Head Trail is just one segment of this extensive network.
No booking is required for the North Head Trail. It's a public trail, and you can visit anytime during daylight hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The North Head Trail is considered moderate to technical. It features many steep stairs, uneven paths, and some rock scrambling, requiring good fitness and balance.
The North Head Trail itself is approximately 8 km out and back, totaling 16 km if you complete the full length. However, many visitors turn around sooner, enjoying the initial sections.
Expect stunning coastal scenery, with dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean, waves crashing against cliffs, and rugged landscapes. There are numerous viewpoints perfect for photos.
While there are no specific facilities like restrooms directly on the trail, the nearby Signal Hill area offers amenities. Good signage is present to help you stay on the path.
Due to its technical nature with steep stairs and uneven terrain, it might be challenging for absolute beginners. Moderately fit individuals with good balance should find it doable, but caution is advised.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a new, spectacular view! Look for vantage points overlooking the ocean, the rugged coastline, and the dramatic waves. The numerous viewpoints are perfect for capturing the essence of the trail.
Sunny days provide the best light for capturing the vibrant blues of the ocean and the textures of the cliffs. Sunsets can also offer dramatic lighting, though daylight hours are recommended for safety on the technical sections.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check with local authorities or Parks Canada for specific rules regarding drone operation in the Signal Hill National Historic Site area before flying.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive coastal views. A camera with good low-light performance can be useful if you're there during dawn or dusk. Don't forget a sturdy tripod if you plan on long exposures of the waves.
While the trail itself is the main attraction, you'll get fantastic views of the St. John's harbor, the coastline, and potentially Signal Hill itself from different angles.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more accessible family-friendly coastal experience in the area, consider exploring the paths around Quidi Vidi Village or parts of the East Coast Trail that are flatter and wider. However, if your family enjoys a good challenge and stunning views, the North Head Trail can be a memorable adventure with proper preparation and realistic expectations about the trail's demands.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic viewpoints, saving money on dining out. The trail itself provides all the adventure and natural beauty you need for a memorable experience, making it an ideal option for those looking to explore Newfoundland on a budget.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Terrain: What to Expect
Many visitors recommend wearing sturdy hiking boots with excellent ankle support and considering trekking poles to aid with balance and reduce strain, especially on the descents and ascents. The trail can also be muddy after rain, so waterproof footwear is a wise choice. Despite the technical aspects, the effort is widely considered worth it for the unparalleled coastal views and the sense of accomplishment.
For those looking for a more accessible experience, it's possible to hike just a portion of the trail and still enjoy its beauty. Turning back after an hour or so can provide a satisfying experience without committing to the full length. Always check weather conditions before you go, as fog or high winds can add to the challenge.
Capturing the Beauty: Photography Tips
Golden hour, just after sunrise or before sunset, can cast a magical glow over the landscape, enhancing the colors and textures. However, due to the technical nature of the trail, it's advisable to complete your hike during daylight hours for safety. A wide-angle lens is highly recommended to capture the sweeping panoramas, while a telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details of the waves or distant seabirds. Remember to protect your gear from sea spray and consider a polarizing filter to deepen the blues of the sky and water.
Many visitors highlight the numerous viewpoints along the trail as prime spots for photography. Don't be afraid to pause, observe, and wait for the perfect wave or light. The trail's challenging sections, like the steep stairs and rocky outcrops, also offer unique photographic opportunities, framing the landscape in interesting ways.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit