Thru-hiking the East Coast Trail unveils a breathtaking world where the rugged cliffs meet the expansive Atlantic, creating a hiker’s paradise. Not only is the East Coast Trail a world class hiking route, it’s also a fantastic place to whale watch from land, with some hikers reporting seeing over one hundred whales in a single day.
If you’re looking for an ideal base camp to explore Newfoundland’s East Coast Trail, Whale House Guest House offers everything any travel enthusiast needs, like private suites, Oceanside hot tub, and unbeatable access to the trail, allowing you to hike directly from your suite. Positioned near key trail sections like Tinkers Point and Beaches Path, this guest house not only offers comfort but unmatched access to some of the trail’s most picturesque spots.
Ready to lace up your hiking boots? Let’s delve into why Tinker’s Point trail is so fantastic and why staying at Whale House should be on every adventurer’s bucket list.
Embarking on a thru-hike along the East Coast Trail is akin to stepping into a vivid painting where every view is a masterpiece. Stretching over 336 kilometers along the Avalon Peninsula in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, this trail is a mosaic of rugged coastlines, dense forests, and panoramic ocean vistas. For those seeking solitude, adventure, and natural beauty, it’s a journey that promises all this and more.
Did you know the Tinkers Point trail is the easiest and most assessable Newfoundland East Coast Trail hike?
The East Coast Trail has many sections, some east and some more challenging. The Tinkers Point trail is not only exciting and fun, but it’s also easy. The first section in particular os wide, level, and offers the best whale watching and picnic sites around.
Why Thru-Hike the East Coast Trail?
Thru-hiking the East Coast Trail is not just about endurance; it’s about immersing yourself in a landscape teeming with wildlife and dotted with lighthouses, ecological reserves, and historic sites. Each step brings a new discovery, from spotting whales breaching in the distance to Newfoundland Berry Picking along the path. It’s a trail that appeals to both the casual walker and the seasoned hiker with its varying difficulty levels and well-marked routes.
Strategic Stop: Whale House Guest House
One of the jewels of the trail is the proximity of the Whale House Guest House to two of the trail’s celebrated sections: Tinkers Point and Beaches Path. Located just a stone’s throw away from these trailheads, the guest house offers a strategic pit stop or starting point for hikers looking to explore these areas.
The Trail Access Bridge from the Whale House Zen Garden Loop to the East Coast Trail
Tinkers Point: A Hiker’s Delight
Tinkers Point Path is a segment that showcases the dramatic coastal beauty synonymous with the East Coast Trail. Offering moderate hikes with some of the best cliffside views, it’s a place where the sky, sea, and land converge in stunning displays of natural splendor. For guests at the Whale House, this trail section is accessible within minutes, allowing for spontaneous sunset hikes or leisurely morning strolls.
Beaches Path: Stroll Through Serenity
Beaches Path, another accessible segment from the Whale House, also offers low key hiking with its sweeping beaches and gentle trails, it’s perfect for those who prefer a less strenuous path. Hikers can enjoy the soothing sounds of the ocea, making it an ideal route for reflection and relaxation.
Planning Your Hike
Thru-hiking requires preparation, especially on a trail as diverse as the East Coast Trail. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Gear Up: Weather on the East Coast can be unpredictable. Pack layers, waterproof clothing, and sturdy hiking boots.
Navigate Smart: While the trail is well-marked, carrying a map or a GPS device can enhance your navigation through less traveled sections.
Water Proof Maps: Purchase your waterproof map from the East Coast Trail Association’s website.
Stay Safe: Inform someone of your hiking plan, especially if venturing into less populated areas.
Check Timings: Some parts of the trail, especially near ecological reserves, might have access restrictions depending on the season.
Need help planning your next east coast trail hike? Call one of the hiking experts at Whale House for more information on where to stay and how to best access the trail section you want. Whale House also offers hiker and gear shuttles along with free trip planning. Call 1-709-702-0313 to plan your Newfoundland East Coast Trail adventure today.
Whale House Guest House offers luxury boutique private suites with outdoor hot tubs overlooking humpback whale feeding grounds. Located next to the east coast trail in the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, just 30 min from downtown St. John’s.
