The East Coast Trail Association

The East Coast Trail, a renowned coastal wilderness hiking trail, has evolved significantly since its beginning in 1994. The trail, which spans 336 kilometers along Newfoundland & Labrador’s Avalon Peninsula, offers hikers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

The East Coast Trail Association (ECTA) has been the driving force behind the trail's development. The association began its mission to create a world-class hiking experience, and over the years, the trail has been expanded and improved multiple times. By 2015, it spanned 300 kilometers, including new paths like Piccos Ridge and White Horse.

In 2017, the East Coast Trail was integrated into the Trans Canada Trail, marking a significant milestone. This partnership chose the Fort Amherst to Cape Spear section as “Kilometer 0” of the Trans Canada Trail. The same year, the trail received support from Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency (ACOA) for improvements on a 17.8 km stretch and for trail hardening on 30 km between Cape St. Francis and Portugal Cove. Additionally, ACOA and the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador funded enhancements and restoration of 62 km on the Southern Shore.

The trail continued to grow, and by 2022, the ECTA officially opened a 52-km section between Topsail Beach and Cape St. Francis, completing the current 336-km length of the trail, boasting 25 distinct hiking paths. With safety and accessibility being a priority, the East Coast Trail links 24 historic communities, welcoming visitors to path trailheads and guiding them along well-maintained terrain marked by highly visible way-finding signs.

The ECTA has also been recognized for its contributions to the community. In 2019, the trail celebrated its 25th anniversary, and 13 volunteers received the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers from the Governor General of Canada. The trail has also been featured on various media platforms, reaching millions of viewers and highlighting its significance as a premier hiking destination.

The East Coast Trail's history is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the ECTA and its supporters. With continuous improvements and significant support from organizations like ACOA, the trail is a cherished natural and cultural asset, attracting hikers from around the world.

"The Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency has been a firm believer in the vision of the East Coast Trail from the beginning. Our funding partnership began in 1997 with the project that delivered the first 220 km of trail between Fort Amherst and Cappahayden. This led to a 27-year funding partnership that has supported the ongoing development of the East Coast Trail resulting in the creation of a 336 km world-class destination hiking trail found along the eastern edge of the Avalon Peninsula.

This accomplishment could not have been achieved in our lifetime without ACOA's belief that the East Coast Trail's value proposition was strong and offered the potential for breakthrough performance, driving significant economic, social and environmental value for current and future generations.

I wish to recognize and thank ACOA, on behalf of the East Coast Trail Association, for their long-term commitment and financial contribution to the ongoing sustainability of the trail and the Association, covering the areas of trail development and trail enhancement, including trail protection. ACOA's active support and engagement in this partnership is very much appreciated and has made a significant difference in our lives.  A contribution that has been instrumental in the development of the trail and continues to be essential to its long-term sustainability, a partnership that continues to have a positive and lasting impact."  

- Randy Murphy, President East Coast Trail Association.