How to Hike the World-Famous Skerwink Trail in Newfoundland

In a small town on the east coast of Newfoundland, you’ll find Trinity East. Home of the world-famous Skerwink Trail and amazing scenery, this hike must be on your bucket list. The Skerwink Trail was named one of Travel and Leisure magazine’s best hikes and you will soon find out why.

Get the details below on this epic hike. The Skerwink Trail is one of many hikes in Newfoundland you really can’t skip. If you are looking for more fun around the island, check out our 12 day itinerary for more info!

Where to Stay

We recommend staying in the nearby picturesque town of Trinity! Check out some options below:

• Artisan Inn – Top Rated! The Artisan Inn in Trinity offers a unique stay with cozy rooms and vacation homes located in this picturesque historic town.
• Trinity Eco-Tours and Lodge – Breakfast included! The Trinity Eco-Tours Lodge offers guests a charming stay in a beautifully restored 19th-century building with six whale-themed rooms, providing comfort and modern amenities.
• Rosewood Suites – Rosewood Suites in Trinity offers beautifully restored heritage accommodations that have been recently remodeled.
• Compass B&B – comfortable accommodations perfect for visitors exploring the area.

Before You Venture Out

• Fees are not required for a hike on the Skerwink Trail.
• There is somewhat limited parking in this area, so start your hike early. Please be aware of where you are parking and do not block driveways or other private property. Be respectful of the residents who live here.
• There is a pit toilet restroom just as you start walking on this trail.

Weather and General Safety

• Be aware of the weather at all times. You might experience all four seasons in one day! Sun, rain, fog, wind, heat, cold, you name it.
• Bring lunch and plenty of snacks for your adventure.
• We recommend bringing plenty of water. Get our favorite water bladder here and never worry about running out!

Animal Safety in Newfoundland

• The island of Newfoundland is home to many animal species, including moose, caribou, black bear, lynx, and fox. Furthermore, many species of birds and fish reside here.
  • It is very rare to encounter a predator animal anywhere in Newfoundland, but you will encounter flies!
    • Newfoundland is a pristine natural location and is thus home to the famous black fly. If you know, you know. Black flies are active from spring through summer.
    • Keep DEET bug spray handy, and a head net will become your best friend if you get swarmed by black flies or mosquitoes.

The Skerwink Trail – moderate/strenuous – 3.4 miles, loop

In 2003 the trail was ranked as one of the top 35 trails in North America and Europe by Travel & Leisure Magazine. Do not miss this trail! The trail begins at the parking area in nearby Trinity East/Port Rexton.

Also, keep in mind that the popularity of this trail will make the parking areas very busy. Please observe all signage for parking.

Starting the Hike

Hike the Skerwink Trail in a clockwise direction. First, the hike begins fairly flat with a bit of elevation gain, traveling down a road and through a forested area.

At a little over 1/2 mile, you’ll see the coast come into view, and you’ll have excellent views from here on out. There is an option to continue on an inland trail vs a coastal trail. Which one will you choose?

We recommend the coastal trail! Follow this trail for stellar views of the sea stacks and surrounding areas. Steep sections use stairs and boardwalks with areas where you can stop to rest with excellent views of the sea. Also, please be cautious in this area as there are very steep drop-offs.

Next, you will reach a spur trail around mile 2.25 that will lead you to an excellent lookout with 360-degree views of the surrounding communities of Trinity, Champney’s West, and the Fox Island Trail. The spur trail to the lookout point is very steep but worth it.

Eventually, the trail leads to White Cove Beach. Next, continue around a small pond to reach the parking lot where the hike ends.

Final Reflections

The Skerwink Trail was a great hike that we completed on our last day in the area before heading to St. John’s. Overall, the hike is a nice mix of flat forest areas, boardwalks, stunning overlooks, and steep coastal cliffs.

It truly has something for everyone. We had the trail to ourselves in the morning as we got there first thing. We hope you enjoy this hike as much as we did! If you have some extra time in on the Bonavista Peninsula, you can’t miss a trip to Trinity. Plus, they have ice cream! Who wouldn’t want that?!