17. La Manche Village Path

The La Manche Village Path will be temporarily closed at the North side of the suspension bridge to the Quarry from early May to mid-June 2023 to facilitate the replacement of the stairs ascending from the La Manche Suspension Bridge. Hikers will be able to walk onto the bridge but will not be able to cross fully. Work is scheduled to begin on Monday, May 1, 2023 and is anticipated to take 3-4 weeks to complete. However, this time frame assumes the Trail is free of ice and snow by early May and is also dependent on weather conditions during the period. If either of these factors are not favourable, the timetable to complete the work may be extended to mid-June. While we hope the work will be completed before the end of May, we encourage all hikers planning trips from May to mid-June to take this closure into account. We will update you on the progress as we get closer to the start of te work and as the work is carried out. Read more (including detour information) here.

 

No path clearing or conditions updates take place during winter months. Map recommended. Trail-rated footwear required. 

About This Path: This path is an easy hike taking hikers from Tors Cove to the former settlement of La Manche, ending at the 50 m suspension bridge. See otters and tidal life at Crockers Island; nesting puffins on Pee Pee Island; a beaver lodge and side trail to Doctors Cove, which offers a nice spot for a break; and the suspension bridge. A pool, above the suspension bridge, is a popular swimming spot. La Manche Village features old slate foundations of the homes once nestled in the community. Limited facilities available in Tors Cove; limited services in Bauline East, St. Michael’s and Burnt Cove along the hike.

 

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Community Walk  

Getting to Flamber Head Path:The Flamber Head Path trailhead is located at the far end of the La Manche suspension bridge.

Hiking Etiquette

Please keep the following points in mind when hiking the East Coast Trail:

Leave No Trace - Pack it in. Pack it out. Please remove all trash, leftover food, and litter from the trail.

No Open Fires - Carry a backpack or camping stove if you are planning to cook while on the trail. 

Take Only Pictures - Taking pictures is encouraged but please leave plants and wildlife undisturbed.

Pedestrian Only - The East Coast Trail was designed for pedestrians only. It was not hardened to sustain bike, vehicle, or equestrian traffic.

Dogs on the Trail - Dogs may join hikers on the trail as long as they are under the owner's control. Per the provincial Animal Health and Protection Regulations, "In any outdoor area where people may encounter your pet without their consent, dogs must be kept on a leash." Please follow applicable legislation when taking your dogs on public rights-of-way. Learn more here.

Hike On the Trail Bed - Please hike on the developed trail to protect vegetation and prevent erosoion.

Respect - Respect the peace and quiet of the wilderness and the privacy of people who live near the trail. 

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Preparing to Hike

When choosing a hike, consider the length, the average time to complete and the difficulty rating. East Coast Trail paths do not loop - stated path distances are one way. 

Trail-rated hiking boots or shoes are a must on the East Coast Trail. Additionally, be sure to layer brightly colored, lightweight, quick-drying clothing for changing Newfoundland weather conditions. 

For a complete list of what to pack and more tips for hiking safely, click here.

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Video of La Manche by Eric Aylward: https://youtu.be/V_oAvbkBBbc