Cape Spear Path

Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism

23. Spurwink Island Path

All Paths

Route:
Aquaforte to Port Kirwan
Current Path Status:
Open

All Paths

Current Path Status:
Open
Route:
Aquaforte to Port Kirwan
About This Path:

This path features views of the Ferryland Lighthouse; the enormous Berry Head Sea Arch; abandoned homesteads and settlements at the Ferry, Ryan’s Garden, and Clear Cove; steep-sided coves; seabirds; a variety of flora (including lady slippers, candlestick orchids, and pitcher plants); berry-picking; and seals. Note, this is a long walk with no easy bailout points. Carry adequate supplies. Berry Head Arch is located at the path’s mid-point (12.4 km), a 3-hour walk from either trailhead. If you fail to get an early start, choose a shorter path. In addition, Chance Pond River is difficult to cross after rain. Limited facilities and services available in Aquaforte. No facilities available in Port Kirwan.

Length
20.4km
Estimated time
7 Hours to 10 Hours
Difficulty

 DIFFICULT

Path Advisory: No path clearing or conditions updates take place during winter months. Map recommended. Trail-rated footwear required.
Access Points:
  • Aquaforte - From Route 10, exit at the Aquaforte Community Hall (white building). Continue to a fork in road and keep to the right. Park on either the south side of Loop Road, near the Island, or the south side of Riverhead Road. Do not block local access. The path begins at the end of Riverhead Road.
  • South West River – park in the designated parking area adjacent to the river at the south end of Aquaforte.
  • Port Kirwan - From Route 10 at Fermeuse, turn east and continue approximately 5 km to Port Kirwan. Park at the Mike Shallow Community Centre. The trailhead is located immediately past Immaculate Conception church.

Camping: Wilderness camping is available at Gallows Cove Campsite, 11.2 km from the Aquaforte trailhead. No reservations required. The campsite includes four tent platforms and an outdoor, primitive toilet. Be sure to carry a camp stove, as open fires are not permitted.
Community Walk Getting to Bear Cove Point Path: After exiting the trail from the Port Kirwan trailhead, follow Port Kirwan Road for 4.5 km to the junction with Route 10. Follow the highway for 350 m and turn left onto Lumley Cove Road. Follow this road for 800 m to Brophy's Road, Brophy's Road to the "Corkscrew" (200 m), and the "Corkscrew" to Kingman's Cove Road (200 m). Follow Kingman's Cove Road left for 1.3 km to Kingman's Cove and the Bear Cove Point Path trailhead (total: 7.4 km).
Amenities
Parking
Wilderness Campsite
Features
Barrens
Beach
Berry Grounds
Bird Nesting
Cemetary
Cliff
Coastline Views
Developed Trail
Fjord Views
Gorge
Headland
Historic Site
River
Sea Arch
Waterfall
Woodland