Skerwink Trail
A world-class 5.3 km coastal hike in Newfoundland, famed for dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and sweeping Trinity Bay views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, stunning light
Skerwink Trail
Best Time
Fewer crowds, stunning light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A world-class 5.3 km coastal hike in Newfoundland, famed for dramatic cliffs, sea stacks, and sweeping Trinity Bay views.
"This has got to be one of my favourite day hikes. Beautiful coastal views, variety of trees and rock formations and well maintained."
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Good shoes are essential for this moderate trail with some climbing. Water shoes are optional for ocean dips.
📸 Allow Ample Time
Take your time to enjoy the views; 2.5 hours is common for stops, but the walk itself is about 90 mins.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Dramatic Sea Stacks
Coastal sections
Witness towering rock formations sculpted by the sea, offering breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Sweeping Trinity Bay Vistas
Throughout the trail
Experience panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the vast expanse of Trinity Bay.
Coastal Cliffs and Eagles
Higher elevations
Hike along dramatic cliffs, keeping an eye out for soaring eagles in this picturesque natural setting.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Gear Up for Adventure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Good shoes are essential for this moderate trail with some climbing. Water shoes are optional for ocean dips.
📸 Allow Ample Time
Take your time to enjoy the views; 2.5 hours is common for stops, but the walk itself is about 90 mins.
☀️ Check the Weather
A clear day offers absolutely stunning views. Be prepared for changing coastal weather.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly (with caveats)
Manageable for kids aged 7-8+, but can be challenging for younger ones.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Footwear
Good shoes are essential for this moderate trail with some climbing. Water shoes are optional for ocean dips.
📸 Allow Ample Time
Take your time to enjoy the views; 2.5 hours is common for stops, but the walk itself is about 90 mins.
☀️ Check the Weather
A clear day offers absolutely stunning views. Be prepared for changing coastal weather.
👨👩👧 Kid-Friendly (with caveats)
Manageable for kids aged 7-8+, but can be challenging for younger ones.
📍 Trail Access
The trail starts conveniently close to accommodations like Halfway Hill House.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Skerwink Trail for its absolutely stunning coastal views and unique geological formations, calling it one of the best day hikes they've experienced globally. While generally moderate, some find certain sections challenging, and it's recommended to wear good shoes. The trail is well-maintained with scenic lookouts, making it a highly recommended experience for most visitors.
"Take the time to do this trail. I think it had some of the most beautiful sights I've ever seen on a hike before. Moderate difficulty, but easily doable if you take your time. It took us about 2.5 hrs from beginning to end but we also stopped on many of the benches and at many of the look outs to enjoy the sights, sounds, smells and had a snack too."
Danielle T
"Second summer that I do the trail with my kids and husband and it was super fun.
It is really depends on the weather but if you are lucky enough with a clear day and the view is absolutely stunning.
The trail is a bit challenging for little kids but I think that from the age of 7/8 it will be manageable.
Good shoes/snickers are very recommended and maybe water shoes to dip your feet at the end of the trail (in the ocean).
The trail is very clean and has a few view points with bunches to relax. We had a great time and will come bank next summer."
Michal B.
"I’ve hike nearly around the world (NZ to Chile) and this has got to be one of my favourite day hikes. Beautiful coastal views, variety of trees and rock formations and well maintained. Highly recommend hitting it up! Took us 1.5 hours starting from Fishers Loft Inn."
Angie h
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Skerwink Trail is located in Port Rexton, Newfoundland and Labrador. Many visitors access it directly from accommodations like Halfway Hill House, which is situated right at the trailhead. It's also a popular destination when visiting the Bonavista Peninsula.
While specific parking details aren't always highlighted, the proximity to local inns and houses suggests that parking is generally available nearby or at your accommodation.
Yes, the Skerwink Trail is a fantastic option for a day trip from Bonavista. It's located in the Port Rexton area, which is a scenic drive from Bonavista, and is often combined with visits to Elliston or Dungeon Provincial Park.
Port Rexton is accessible by car. If you're coming from St. John's, it's a drive of several hours. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring Newfoundland's scenic routes.
Public transport options are limited in this region of Newfoundland. Driving is the most practical way to reach and explore the Skerwink Trail and surrounding areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Skerwink Trail is a public hiking trail and does not require an entrance fee or tickets. It's free to access and enjoy.
The Skerwink Trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, it's best to visit during daylight hours for safety and to fully appreciate the views.
While not as common as for larger attractions, some local tour operators or accommodations might offer guided hikes. It's worth checking with local tourism providers in Port Rexton or Trinity.
The main consideration is respecting the natural environment. Stick to the marked trails, pack out what you pack in, and be mindful of wildlife.
Yes, the trail is accessible in winter, but conditions can be challenging due to snow and ice. Proper winter hiking gear and caution are advised.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Skerwink Trail is generally considered moderate. It features some hilly sections and short climbs, but much of the path is relatively flat.
Most visitors take about 1.5 to 2.5 hours to complete the 5.3 km loop, allowing time for stops at scenic lookouts and for photos.
Expect dramatic coastal cliffs, impressive sea stacks, sweeping views of Trinity Bay, and diverse vegetation. You might also spot eagles.
The trail is well-maintained and features several viewpoints with benches for resting and enjoying the scenery. Restroom facilities are typically not available directly on the trail itself.
Dogs are generally allowed on the Skerwink Trail, but they must be kept on a leash to protect wildlife and ensure the safety of other hikers.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a photo opportunity! Focus on the dramatic sea stacks, the expansive Trinity Bay vistas, and the rugged cliff edges. Drone photography is also popular here.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with golden hour casting a beautiful glow on the landscape.
Yes, drone photography is quite popular on the Skerwink Trail, offering unique aerial perspectives of the coastline and sea stacks.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting wildlife like eagles. Don't forget a sturdy tripod for stable shots.
The coastal weather can be unpredictable, so protecting your gear from wind and spray is important. The uneven terrain also requires careful footing while composing shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Remember to inform someone of your hiking plans and carry essentials like water and a fully charged phone. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Consider visiting during golden hour for the most dramatic lighting. Drone pilots will find incredible aerial perspectives, and wildlife photographers might spot eagles. +1 Be prepared for coastal weather and ensure your gear is protected. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Skerwink Trail Experience
The trail winds through a mix of coastal paths, forested areas, and rocky outcrops, offering a diverse hiking experience. Visitors often describe the views as some of the most beautiful they've ever encountered on a hike. Key features include dramatic sea stacks, sweeping vistas of Trinity Bay, and the chance to spot wildlife like eagles.
+1 The trail is well-maintained, with several designated viewpoints equipped with benches, making it a comfortable place to rest and soak in the surroundings. Many visitors find the trail to be a highlight of their trip to Newfoundland. Its accessibility from local accommodations in Port Rexton makes it a convenient and rewarding adventure.
Navigating the Skerwink Trail: Difficulty and Duration
Most hikers spend between 1.5 to 2.5 hours completing the trail. This duration accounts for the actual walking time, which is estimated to be around 90 minutes, plus ample time for stopping at the numerous scenic lookouts, taking photographs, and simply enjoying the stunning environment.
For families, the trail is considered manageable for children aged approximately 7 to 8 years and older. Younger children might find some sections challenging.
Photography Opportunities on the Skerwink Trail
+1 Sweeping panoramas of Trinity Bay provide breathtaking backdrops, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. Many visitors utilize drone photography to capture unique aerial perspectives of the rugged coastline, showcasing the scale and beauty of the landscape from above.
+1 Beyond the grand vistas, keep an eye out for wildlife, such as soaring eagles, which add an dynamic element to your shots. To make the most of your photography, consider bringing a wide-angle lens for expansive landscapes and a telephoto lens for wildlife. Protecting your gear from the coastal elements, such as wind and sea spray, is also important.
The trail's varied terrain means careful footing is necessary while composing your shots, ensuring both safety and the perfect capture. 
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit