13. Spout Path
16.2 km (+6.3km access trail), 6-9 hour hike (one way), rated strenuous.
No path clearing or conditions updates take place during winter months. Map recommended. Trail-rated footwear required.
Access Points:
- Shoal Bay Road - Drive through the Goulds, and turn left onto Shoal Bay Road. Parking is available at the end of the road. You may be ticketed it you park in the bus turnaround. Hike up Shoal Bay Road to the Pipeline Road juncion (1.0 km) at the crest of a valley between two hills. Turn right. The road runs level, in a southeast direction, crossing Queens River (3.0 km). At Slidey Rock (3.8 km) there is a patch of exposed rock with a right turn that over-optimistic hikers sometimes mistake for the trail. Past Slidey Rock the coast can be seen in the distance and the road begins a sharp descent. At 5.3 km, a left branch of the road leads to Nippers Cove. Keep to the right (south-east) branch. The coast and trailhead are reached at 6.3 km.
- Bay Bulls - Drive 2.3 km along Northside Road and Gunridge Road to the end of the pavement and continue 200 m along the gravel track to the small parking lot by Holy Trinity Anglican Cemetery. The road can no longer be driven past this point. If lot is full, backtrack, and park alonside Gunridge Road. Do not block driveways.
About This Path: A most challenging and rewarding hike, this long, hilly trail is for experienced and prepared hikers only. The Spout, a wave-powered geyser, is at the center of this path. It can be seen from as far away as Long Point. The path features dramatic sea cliffs, sea stacks, a historic lighthouse and five waterfalls. Bald eagles often nest atop sea stacks. The path passes over rough ground, with numerous climbs and descents. Start early in the day to finish before sunset and plan to spend time experiencing the Spout. No bailout points, so be sure to bring sufficient drinking water. Shoal Bay Road access trail is very wet after heavy rainfall. Facilities and services in Goulds (accessible from Shoal Bay Road) and Bay Bulls.
Camping: There is a wilderness campsite, Little Bald Head Campsite, on the path, 5.3 km from the Shoal Bay Road trailhead. No reservations required. The campsite includes 11 campsites, seven of which have tent playforms, and a primitive outdoor toilet. Be sure to carry a camp stove, as open fires are not permitted.
Community Walk
Getting to Mickeleens Path: After exiting the trail from the Bay Bulls trailhead, follow Gunridge Road for 200 m and Northside Road for 2.3 km to a junction. Turn left onto Southside Road for 200 m, then left onto Lower Road for 600 m, and then turn left onto Quays (The Keys) Road for 1.2 km to the parking turnaround. Continue for 280 m to the Mickeleens Path trailhead (total: 4.8 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 Regulatoins, "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