07. Silver Mine Head Path
3.8 km, 2 hour hike (one way), rated easy.
The path length has been extended to include the walk along the roadway from Middle Cove to Lance Cove and then along the coast to Stacks Point and on to the new trailhead just off Marine Drive at Ship Cove. Also, a new bridge crossing North Pond Brook has been constructed and is now open to hikers. No path clearing or conditions updates take place during winter months. Map recommended. Trail-rated footwear required.
Access Points:
- Torbay - Park alongside Motion Drive near the postal boxes. Do not block the fire hydrant. Start by the white rock.
- Middle Cove - Park in the Middle Cove Beach parking lot. The popularity of the late spring caplin scull (run) can limit parking options; vehicles parked on Marine Drive are ticketed.
- Outer Cove - Park near the trailhead above the cove. Do not occupy viewpoint parking.
About This Path: Attractions on this path include gentle coastal cliffs and wild wave action. A bridge over North Pond Brook (Motion River) constructed in 2019 allows for easy crossing. Middle Cove Beach Park is known for caplin and whales in season, along with coastal meadows and mixed forest with views south to Torbay Point and north to Flatrock. Spots to picnic can be found along the path and on Middle Cove Beach. An access trail on Marine Drive (signposted as “Granda’s Lane”) offers an alternate point of entry. Sections of this path are prone to erosion, especially the southern part rising out of Middle Cove where there are steep cliffs. There are services available in Torbay, but no facilities at Middle Cove Beach.
Community Walk
Getting to Cobblers Path: After exiting the trail from the Outer Cove trailhead, proceed 400 m to the bridge spanning Outer Cove. Outer Cove Beach can be reached by a trail beginning on the inland side of the bridge. Walk 200 m to Dorans Lane. Proceed 1.1 km to the end of lane and the Cobbler Path trailhead (total: 1.8 km).
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.
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.
Open