Deadmans Bay Path (East Coast Trail Association map #1) is an amazing and diverse hike, all the more so for being so close to the city. Starting near the historic lighthouse and WWII battery at Fort Amherst, you first climb the Southside Hills, from where you look back and see the whole of St John's beneath you. Along the top there are orchids in season, and signs of beaver activity. You descend to the abandoned community of Freshwater Bay and cross the Barachois, a curved rocky beach, passing the twisted wreck of the SS Thesis. The main trail then heads towards Small (aka Spriggs) Point, a gathering place for various sea birds. The trail skirts some jagged cliffs, and continues through some deep woods to the head of Deadman's Bay. After more woods and open cliff-side meadows, with several old rock walls, the path ends at the charming village of Blackhead.

Trail Distance: 10.6 km (6.6 mi)

At the St John's end, park at the lot at Cahills Point and walk east to the marked trail head. At the Blackhead end park in the designated lot, taking a signed right turn just before the end of the road.  A detailed map of this path is available from the East Coast Trail Association (http://eastcoasttrail.ca/).  The East Coast Trail Association is a registered charity, member supported and volunteer based.