Top 10 East Coast Trail Summer Hikes for 2025 Near Whale House Guest House
Hey there, hiking lovers and hopeless romantics! If you’re dreaming of a summer escape where rugged trails meet romantic starry nights, the East Coast Trail is calling your name. Stretching over 300 km along Newfoundland’s Avalon Peninsula, this trail is a paradise of coastal views, wildlife, and history. Located right on the doorstep of Whale House Guest House, just 30 minutes from St. John’s, If you're looking for adventure, nature, and world class trails, you'll find it here. I’m excited to share the top 10 East Coast Trail summer hikes for 2025, perfect for your next adventure while staying at our luxury retreat. Let’s hit the trails!
A Romantic Hiking Adventure Begins
Meet Sarah and Tom, a couple who celebrated their anniversary with a hiking getaway at Whale House Guest House. “We wanted trails by day and romance by night,” Sarah said, sipping coffee on their private deck. After a quick stroll from Whale House to the trailhead, literally steps away, they set off to explore the East Coast Trail. Their story inspired this list, and I’ll sprinkle in their tips (plus a few of my own) to make your hike unforgettable. Want to know more about planning a romantic hiking trip? Check out our guide to romantic getaways at Whale House Guest House.
Why Hike the East Coast Trail in Summer 2025?
Summer on the East Coast Trail is pure magic. Expect to experience warm days, blooming wildflowers, and the chance to spot whales and puffins along the coast. With 26 paths ranging from easy strolls to strenuous treks, there’s something for everyone. 2025 is shaping up to be a stellar year for outdoor adventures, with adventurers and travellers flocking to Newfoundland’s trails. Want to see whales from the trail? Our ultimate guide to wildlife watching in Newfoundland has all the seasonal tips you need!
Top 10 East Coast Trail Summer Hikes for 2025
1. Spout Path (Moderate, 7.4 km)
Known for its geyser-like spout that shoots water high into the air, Spout Path is a must-do. The trail winds through coastal barrens with jaw-dropping ocean views. Sarah and Tom spotted a humpback whale breaching offshore! It’s a moderate 7.4 km round trip, taking about 3 hours. Pack a picnic for the lookout; the sea breeze is the perfect lunch companion. Tip: Wear sturdy shoes—the path can be rocky near the spout.
2. La Manche Village Path (Easy, 6.4 km)
This easy 6.4 km hike is perfect for families or couples wanting a leisurely stroll. Cross the iconic suspension bridge over La Manche River and explore the remnants of an old fishing village abandoned in the 1960s. “It felt like stepping back in time,” Tom said, snapping photos of the bridge. Expect to spend about 2.5 hours round trip.
3. Flamber Head Path (Challenging, 11.2 km)
For a challenge, Flamber Head Path delivers with 11.2 km of rugged cliffs and dramatic ocean vistas. It’s a strenuous hike taking around 5 hours, but the views are worth every step. Sarah loved the wildflowers dotting the trail in summer. Tip: Start early to avoid the midday heat, and bring plenty of water.
4. Cape Spear Path (Moderate, 9.6 km)
Starting at Cape Spear, this trail begins at the easternmost point in North America offering 9.6 km of hiking through historic sites like the Cape Spear Lighthouse and prime whale watching spots. It’s a moderate hike, about 4 hours round trip. Tom spotted dozens of whales from the cliffs, a highlight of their trip! Tip: Visit in July for peak whale season, as noted in our Whale Watching FAQ: Your 2025 Guide.
5. Deadman’s Bay Path (Moderate, 10.5 km)
Looking for peace and quiet? Deadman’s Bay Path is a 10.5 km moderate hike with serene views of the bay. It takes about 4.5 hours round trip and is less crowded than other trails. Sarah and Tom loved the solitude, holding hands as they walked. Tip: Pack binoculars—seabirds like gannets are often spotted here.
6. Tinkers Point Path (Easy, 5.2 km)
Perfect for bird watching, Tinkers Point Path is an easy 5.2 km hike, taking around 2 hours. In summer, you might spot puffins nesting on nearby islands and it's hard not to see whales from this path. Emily squealed when she saw her first one! The coastal views are stunning, making it a great choice for a relaxed walk. Tip: Bring a light jacket because the ocean breeze along this trail can be chilly.
7. Beaches Path (Easy, 6.8 km)
Beaches Path lives up to its name starting at Mobile Beach. This easy 6.8 km hike takes about 2.5 hours and is ideal for a relaxing walk. Looking for a great place to swim near St. John's? Check out our secret swimming spots near whale house guide for the best tips on where to take a dip.
8. Motion Path (Moderate, 9.1 km)
Photographers will love Motion Path, a 9.1 km moderate hike with dramatic headlands and ocean views. It takes about 4 hours round trip. Tom captured a stunning sunset shot here, calling it “frame-worthy.”
9. Sugarloaf Path (Challenging, 8.9 km)
Sugarloaf Path is a challenging 8.9 km hike with panoramic views of St. John’s and the coastline. It takes around 4 hours and includes steep climbs, but the summit views are breathtaking. “I felt on top of the world!” Sarah said. Tip: Wear hiking boots with good grip. This trail is known for being slippery after rain.
10. Piccos Ridge Path (Strenuous, 14.3 km)
For seasoned hikers, Piccos Ridge Path is a strenuous 14.3 km trek taking about 6 hours. The rugged coastline and ocean vistas are rewarding, but it’s a tough climb. Tom called it “the ultimate workout with a view!” Tip: Bring trekking poles for the steep sections, and start early to avoid crowds.
Hiking Tips for the East Coast Trail in 2025
Here’s what Sarah, Tom, and I learned to make your East Coast Trail adventure epic:
- Pack Smart: Bring a light jacket, hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water—Newfoundland weather can change fast!
- Wildlife Watch: Summer is prime time for whales and puffins. Bring binoculars to spot them from the cliffs!
- Trail Safety: Stick to marked paths, tell someone your plans, and check trail conditions on the East Coast Trail Association website.
- Eco-Friendly Hiking: Leave no trace—pack out what you pack in to protect this pristine trail. Share your eco-conscious hiking pics with #OceanLove2025 to spread the word!
Want more trail tips? Our East Coast Trail Hiking Tips blog has you covered!
Make It a Romantic Getaway at Whale House Guest House
After a day on the trails, Sarah and Tom returned to Whale House Guest House for a night of romance. They dined at Fork Restaurant in Mobile, savoring fresh, foraged ingredients, then slipped into their private hot tub under a zero light pollution sky. “It was the perfect end to a perfect day,” Sarah said, gazing at the stars. With trails just steps away and luxury suites waiting, Whale House is your ideal base for exploring the East Coast Trail. Book your 2025 staycation at Whale House Guest House and make memories that’ll last a lifetime!
Explore More East Coast Trail Adventures
Can’t get enough of the East Coast Trail? Check out our other blog posts for more inspiration:
- East Coast Trail Hiking Tips for Beginners
- When to See Whales, Puffins, and Icebergs on the East Coast Trail
- Romantic Getaways: Why Whale House Guest House is Newfoundland’s Premier Love Nest
Ready to hike and stargaze? Let’s make your 2025 adventure unforgettable on the Southern Shore!