TRAIL RAISER

50/50

TRAIL SHOP

DONATE

MEMBERSHIP

TRAIL RAISER

50/50

TRAIL SHOP

Cape Spear Path

Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism

10. Deadmans Bay Path

All Paths

Route:
Fort Amherst (St. John's) to Blackhead
Current Path Status:
Open

All Paths

Current Path Status:
Open
Route:
Fort Amherst (St. John's) to Blackhead
About This Path:

This coastal path features steep climbs, a long ridge hike, passing swimming holes on the Southside Hills, a descent into Freshwater (former settlement), a barachois crossing, a hilly section with cliffs, bird nesting views, mixed woods and berry picking grounds. Fort Amherst Lighthouse can be found just beyond the Fort Amherst trailhead, at the end of Fort Amherst Road. Freshwater Pond is a popular picnic and swimming spot, with a spring and a toilet up Bay Path. Hikers looking for an easy to moderate walk should start at Bay Path, accessible from Blackhead Road.  Exercise caution on steep climbs and descents. Conditions are often more severe on top of the Southside Hills than at sea level. Carry adequate protective clothing and water. All services in St. John’s, with no facilities at Fort Amherst or Blackhead.

Length
10.5km
Estimated time
4 Hours to 7 Hours
Difficulty

 MODERATE TO DIFFICULT
Path Advisory:  No path clearing or conditions updates take place during winter months. Map recommended. Trail-rated footwear required.
Parking & Transportation
  • Starting May 2026: St. John’s Hop On Hop Off is an option for hikers looking for transportation or pick up/drop off services from the Freshwater Bay parking lot towards Cape Spear OR towards St. John's. Consult the bus schedule & purchase tickets before heading out on your hike as cell service may be limited.
  • Please obey all parking signage in Fort Amherst, Freshwater Bay Parking Lot, and Blackhead.
Access Points:
  • St. John's Southside - Use the visitors' lot at Cahills Point; there is no public parking past this point. Walk 0.5 km to the trailhead, shortly before Fort Amherst Light. Allow time to visit the historic lighthouse, and Second World War battery.
  • Freshwater Bay - Park in the lot provided, on the ocean side of the road, opposite Blackhead Crescent. Walk down Bay Path for 2.2 km. Do not leave valuables in vehicles if parking at the Freshwater Bay parking lot (Bay Path access point) on Blackhead Road.
  • Blackhead - Drive 200 m east through Blackhead, to the gravel parking lot at the end of the road. Do not park in the paved turnaround.
Community Walk Getting to Cape Spear Path: After exiting the trail from the Blackhead trailhead, walk through Blackhead to the Cape Spear Path trailhead (total: 250 m).  
Amenities
Optional Exit Or Access Point
Parking
Features
Access Trail
Barachois
Cliff
Coastline Views
Developed Trail
Gully
Sea Ledge
Steep Ascent
Waterfall