East Coast Trail FAQ 2025 | Newfoundland Hiking & Whale House
Planning a hike on Newfoundland’s East Coast Trail? This FAQ covers bears, camping, dogs, and more for a top-tier adventure. Stay at the East Coast Trail Suites, directly on the Tinkers Point, right on the trail, for oceanfront suites and hot tubs after your hike!
1. Are There Bears on the East Coast Trail?
Yes, black bears roam the Avalon Peninsula. You dn't need to look far to ear of bear encounters on the East Coast Trail. Hikers, like Jason Wells in 2019, have spotted them berry-picking on the trails south of Whale House—watch the CBC video.
2. Can I Camp on the East Coast Trail?
Yes, wilderness camping is allowed on crown land along the trail. If you love backcountry camping, you're going to love the free camping options on the trail network. Try Doctor’s Cove beach near La Manche’s suspension bridge—a hiker’s dream spot with lots of great spots to pitch a tent.
3. Can I Bring My Dog?
Yes, dogs are welcome, but they must be leashed. Many spots on the trail go through areas with rare seabirds and farm animals like ducks, sheep, and goats. You will notice extra signs advising you to keep your dos on a leach in the Beaches Path and Tinkers Point trail areas where hobby farms exist. Pack poop bags and follow leave-no-trace rules for a tail-wagging trek.
4. Is There a Fee to Hike?
No, it’s free! The East Coast Trail Association keeps it open—donate to support their volunteer efforts and do your best to leave the trail better than you found it.
5. Can I Park Overnight at Trailheads?
Yes, most trailheads offer free overnight parking, which makes it easy to drop your car. Check signs, don't leave valuables in your car, and respect local rules. If exploiong in winter, pay close attention to winter parking bans that may apply. Looking to avoid driving and parking altogether? Guests at Whale House can use the trail pick-up and drop off service, moving you and your gear from the trailhead to your suite and then to the next location.
6. Can I Berry Pick?
Yes, snag Newfoundland’s wild berries—abundant in summer and fall along the trail. Partridgeberries, raspberries, bakeapples, and blueberries. No restrictions, just enjoy! Yearly we hear stories of lost berrypickers, often because they wandered off the path. Our How to Survive Berrypicking in Newfoundland guide will help you stay safe and have fun when foraging in the woods.
7. Can I Pick Mushrooms?
Yes, forage chanterelles on the East Coast Trail from spring to fall—if you’re experienced. If you don't know how identify chanterelles, be sure to get someone who know what they're talking about to show since poisonous lookalikes lurk in the woods as well. If you want to know more about foraging, down the lane from Whale House is Food Culture Place operated by Lori McCarthy. If you're looking to learn about Foraging from a global expert, it's might not be a bad idea to check out her website. Check out Lori McCarthys Ted Talk to find out more about her, the programs she runs, and to apply for special clinics like the new 2025 Cultural Residency Program.
8. How Hard Are the Hikes?
From easy strolls to multi-day treks, there’s a trail for all levels. Check our best East Coast Trail hikes for your perfect fit. If you're new to the East Coast Trail and are looking for a cool introductory hike, the Tinkers Point Path trail is perfect for everyone, offering something for all skills and abilities.
9. What Should I Bring?
If you're going for an evening stroll along the Tinkers Point Path, sneakers might suffice. If you're going further and exploring more, how to prepare for the East Coast Trail is an important skill that isn't always intuitive. Making a plan and packing smart is essential.
10. Are There Hot Tubs Nearby?
The Copules retreat and stargazing hot tub suites feature amenities like saunas and private outdoor spas overlooking the east coast trail, marine protected zone, and humpback whale feeding grounds, a top global whale watching destination. The trail next to Whale House winds through Witless Bay Reserve, making it easy to spot whales from the trail—a pure bliss post-hike.
11. Can I Mountain Bike?
No, biking’s banned on the East Coast Trail to protect the trail network, but that doesn't mean you cant have a great time mountain biking and trail riding in the area. If you're looking for fun mountain bike trail riding near whale house, try Mobile First Pond or the Avalon Wilderness Reserve for some fun backcountry riding trails.
12. Can I Fish?
Yes, you can fish. In the ocean, catch-and-release fishing is open year-round—no license is needed. If you're looking for 2025 Newfoundland Recreational Cod Fishing dates or information about salmon and trout fishing, check with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans for updated provincial fishing rules and regulations.
13. Can I Use ATVs or Snowmobiles?
No, they’re not allowed— the east coast trail is limited to food traffic only. If you're looking for a mechanized adventure, check out the coastal and inland trail networks around Whale House include cape pond road, middle pond road, the ride to the swimming hole, and the
14. Is Hypothermia a Risk Year-Round?
Yes, Newfoundland’s wild weather—snow in July, heat in January—means hypothermia’s always a risk. Pack layers.
15. Must I Stay on the Trail?
No, but stick to it unless you’re navigation-savvy. Off-trail explores vast wilderness—be prepared or stay safe.
Hike & Relax: Book Whale House romantic retreat for hot tubs and suites steps from the trail. Call +1-709-702-0313 or visit whalehouse.ca—secure your spot now!
Updated March 2025 – Your East Coast Trail essentials.