E17: The 330-km rollercoaster that is the East Coast Trail

The East Coast Trail is a 332 km end-to-end trail located on the east coast of *Newfoundland. It’s made up of a chain of shorter trails, and can be section or thru-hiked. 

Despite not passing over any mountains, the trail has a total elevation gain of almost 15,000 metres, owing in part to the fact that it passes through many towns, and many of those towns are at sea level. It’s like a seaside rollercoaster. I’ll be honest. This trail wasn’t on my radar until a few listeners reached out to mention it, and the more I learn about it, the closer it moves to the top of my bucket list.

Camping along the trail is free, and hikers do not need to buy any permits. Because it passes near many towns and villages, there are ample opportunities to resupply, take a rest day or bail, if things get too rough. Hikers are treated to dramatic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the rocky Newfoundland Coast, sea arches and sea stacks and picturesque villages. 

Ana McBride hiked the full trail this summer with her dog Winnie and a friend. On today’s episode of Catch Me Outside, she shares the highs and lows of her hike (spoiler alert, there weren’t many lows). She also shares some valuable information for anyone planning to check out the east coast trail. 

*The East Coast Trail is situated on the traditional lands of the Algonquian speaking Beothuk peoples. 

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