East Coast Trail (Logy Bay to Quidi Vidi)

A marvellous tramp from the magnificent Logy Bay to the historic and vibrant community of Quidi Vidi

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Directions

To reach the trail head, one need only find the Logy Bay Road (one of the bigger roads in St. John's) and follow it out of the city (towards Middle Cove), then turn right onto Marine Drive. Follow the road to its end, and it will eventually reach the Memorial University of Newfoundland's Ocean Sciences Centre. Parking is free and available widely, though it is advised that one not leave valuables unattended in the car.

From here, the trail is clearly marked by the wooden East Coast Trail signage.

Details

The trail begins with a moderate ascent for 200m to the top of the hill that stands as a vanguard to Logy Bay. In the early April and May, this is a fantastic locationn to watch the icebergs drift languidly by. From here, one descends into a gulch, and one will face yet another 200m ascent. As the summit is reached, it becomes obvious that the heath topping Sugarloaf has been reached.

As you pass from Sugarloaf, you will be presented with a magnificant view of Robin Hood Bay, and the trail to come. From here you will be ushered into fairly dense woods with only the occasional glimpse out at the majestic sea. One will likely notice an ever-increasing amount of garbage to be found on the trail at this point -- this is due in large part to Robin Hood Bay begin the location of the local "dump". Please do not add to the garbage, and take away from the situation the possible result of littering a trail with refuse.

Upon reaching the climax of the garbage, one will also have reached Small Point, a deceptive title to a point that is, by comparison to any individual, huge. There is also a WWII observation post at this point built into the point and for the historically inclined makes an enjoyable side-trip.

From Small Point, one will begin a descent that will take them through such places as Bobbies Cove, The Rags and Skerries Bight. Shortly after passing Skerries Bight, a clearing will be reached with an access road to Pump House Road. An odd structure will also be visible close to the shore -- this is the pump hosue to which the road is referring to. Cross the road and follow the trail signage back into the woods.

Another ascent presents itself with a few fabulous viewpoints along the way. Note that it was along this path that The Plover was shipwrecked in 1877. About 0.8km from the Pump House, the ascent is increased sharply as one begins to climb to the top of Bawden's Rock in the Bawde Highlands, looking out over Bawden's Hole. From here, one need only point the camera in a given direction and fabulous photos will take themselves.

The trail is mostly a straight trek from here, wrapping past Jim Ryans Rock and into the Quidi Vidi Harbour, known coloquially as "The Gut". From here, one can enjoy the marvellous sights of one of the most historic districts of St. John's. It is also possible to nab a pint at the local microbrewery, The Quidi Vidi Brewery and the area is littered with craft and souvenir shops, and a local bar.

Photographs

GPS Waypoints

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