When WWII broke out in Europe, we thought it was far removed from Arnold’s Cove. So imagine the shock when, in 1941, a US warship entered the harbour, proceeded to the “Neck," and began unloading tanks, jeeps, arms, building materials, dogs, and soldiers.

The major part of this paraphernalia was destined for Arnold’s Cove Station where living quarters were quickly established by the railroad. But it wasn’t long before the US military came this way to explore the headlands and find the most suitable place for a “lookout”. They chose Charlie Peach’s sheep garden at the Otterub, surrounded the area with barbed wire, built some shacks, and erected a lookout at the Otterub’s highest point.

Twice a day (and once at night) the jeeps came through the village on their way from the station to the Otterub. Once our initial shyness disappeared, their forays through the Cove became the highlight of our day. They introduced us to “bakers bread”, bananas, and turkey.  They called our conners “ocean perch” and were willing to pay us a dime a dozen for them.

Charlie Peach’s garden at the Otterub was beyond the village limits and its access was the path the sheep made. The Americans improved and widened it but it remained basically a sheeps’  path. The soldiers left when the war ended in 1945. Since there are now no sheep to keep the trail open, it had practically disappeared until we commenced work on it last fall.

The War Path is approximately one kilometer (.6 mi) each way.  Along the way you will find benches where you can rest and take in the peaceful scenes. The route is exposed to the ocean and offers outstanding views of Placentia Bay and the Islands. At its western end is the Otterub.  Here we have constructed a viewing stand where the U.S. military once had its cannons and telescopes. 

Moderate

Pets are welcome but please keep them on a lease.