12. Cape Spear Path

9.3km (+1km sidetrails, one way), 4-6 hour hike, rated moderate.

Access Points: Cape Spear - After parking at Cape Spear Historic Site, proceed up the hill and pass the two lighthouses and gift shops. The trail runs near a ridge that heads south from Cape Spear. The trailhead is located at the southern edge of the Cape Spear National Historic Site. Maddox Cove - Drive to Maddox Cove. Park at the pull-off above the beach near bridge. East Coast Trail parking lot sign is visible. Follow the road over the bridge and turn right onto a dirt lane. Maddox Cove trailhead is a short distance along this dirt and gravel path. 

About this path: A day outing with variety of terrain, hills, long views, boardwalked bog crossing at Staffordside, erratics along the shore, two river crossings. Trail passes through a Nature Conservancy area in Maddox Cove. Features Cape Spear Historic Site, (easternmost point of North America), lighthouses, museum, berry grounds. Whale watching from a high ridge. Picnic spot at North Head.

Limited facilities at Cape Spear spring to fall. Facilities and services available in the town of Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove.

Photo by  @chelseylawrencephotography on Instagram