Alexander Murray Hiking Trail: How To Survive 2,200 Stairs to Haypook Summit
The Alexander Murray Hiking Trail is a great stop to stretch your legs between Grand Falls-Windsor and Deer Lake in Newfoundland. This hike is located near King’s Point, NL. Stop in at the visitor center for a map, restrooms, a souvenir, and a friendly chat with the staff.
The staff here were surprised to hear that we came all the way from the States. We talked about where we are from and if we have hikes like this around us. Nope! We practice flatland living in the Midwest, but we don’t let that stop us. Truly, you will meet the nicest people in Newfoundland! This post is part of our epic 12 day Newfoundland itinerary.
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Before You Venture Out
- No fees are required for the following hike, but donations are welcome.
- This hike is very strenuous and has 2,200 stairs with 1,100 ft of elevation gain.
- You will encounter 3 waterfalls, moss-carpeted forests, boardwalks, and spectacular views at Haypook Summit. Be on the lookout for moose!
Weather and General Safety
- Hikers are asked to sign in before starting and sign out after ending. This helps the staff know that everyone has completed the hike safely.
- 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.
- Snacks and water are needed for this hike. We recommend using a water bladder and you can find our favorite here.
- Make sure to wear sturdy shoes for this hike and no flip flops.
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 that you would 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 spring through summer.
- Mosquitos might also chase you down as well.
- Keep DEET bug spray handy, and a head net comes in really handy while hiking in Newfoundland.
Alexander Murray Hiking Trail – strenuous, 5.5 miles, loop, 1,100 ft. gain
This epic hike starts just past the visitor center where you’ll head across the bridge. Be sure to sign in and sign out at the kiosk on the provided booklet. We always think it’s fun to see where our fellow hikers have traveled from! This hike is broken up into 3 parts as follows.
Part 1
The first section of the trail is somewhat flat and steady with a slight incline through the forest and up some sections of stairs and boardwalks. As you continue, the area becomes less forested and you’ll reach a small platform in the Moose Barrens with a fork in the trail. You’ll want to head left as suggested by the staff, but feel free to go either direction.
👉🏽 Read next: Explore Gros Morne National Park: Green Gardens and Tablelands.
Part 2
Second, continue the hike through barren and forested areas, meandering along a waterway. Here is where the fun really begins! Get those lungs ready and that heart pumping! You’ll continue up many of the steep 2,200 stairs on your way to various platforms that have spectacular views and benches to rest.
When you reach the Corner Brook Falls platform, continue up the stairs, or head down the stairs. Following the stairs down will lead you to Corner Brook Falls. If the water is flowing, this waterfall is absolutely worth a visit! Let me tell you, it was worth it! After you cool off at the falls, head back up the stairs and get ready for more stairs. 😅
Next, continue your ascent to the Gorge lookout. Take your time, and eventually, you’ll reach the summit of the hike – HayPook! Views of the area here can’t be beat and this is a great spot for a rest, snack, or picnic lunch. Here we had the pleasure to meet more hikers and even a friendly dog!
Part 3
Finally, when you are finished taking in the views, continue on the trail where you’ll descend into boreal forested areas, but be careful, it may be muddy. Eventually, you will arrive at Rowsell’s Falls and last but not least, Gull Brook Falls. Continue along the trail and you’ll reach the Moose Barrens again where you’ll meet back up with the first part of the trail and close the loop.
From here, head back to the left, the way you came before, heading toward the visitor center. Don’t forget to sign out at the kiosk once you reach the trailhead and visitor center. End your hike by chatting with the staff.
They love to hear your stories about the trail and what you thought of the hike. Congratulations! You have officially survived the 2,200-step challenge on the Alexander Murray Hiking Trail.
🚗 Lastly, make the drive toward Norris Point and Rocky Harbour, NL. Be sure to check out your options on Expedia and book a room today! 🛏️
Final Reflections
We really enjoyed this hike. This was a perfect stop during one of our days when we had to drive quite a bit. It was nice to have a break about halfway through our adventure to western Newfoundland.
This hike was pretty strenuous and the 2,200 stairs seemed like they would never end. That being said, the friendly staff, cooling off near the waterfalls, and experiencing the panoramic views at the summit made this hike worth it!
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