Dear East Coast Trail Community & Beyond,
This advisory reflects the serious current situation on the Avalon Peninsula. Multiple out-of-control wildfires are burning across the region, with a regional state of emergency declared and a provincewide fire ban in effect.
Please take a moment to read the important information below about emergency services, the No Fire Policy, and other safety considerations when hiking the East Coast Trail. We encourage you to share it with your friends, family, and fellow outdoor enthusiasts.
Trail Safety Update
Search and Rescue teams in Newfoundland and Labrador have been working overtime this summer, with several rescues on the East Coast Trail. We thank them for their efforts.
Given the current wildfire situation on the Avalon Peninsula and other areas of the province, the East Coast Trail Association strongly recommends avoiding remote and rugged sections of the trail such as paths with Difficult and Strenuous ratings.
For example: Spout Path, Piccos Ridge Path, White Horse Path and Cape Broyle Head Path.
Please read about each Path on the ECT website here: https://eastcoasttrail.com/choose-a-path/
Other Safety Considerations:
- Very dry weather & heat warnings mean natural water sources along the Trail are scarce, making dehydration a very high risk.
- Poor air quality will pose challenges to hikers. Winds change quickly.
- There is limited cell phone reception on the Trail, so you may not receive emergency updates in a timely manner.
Let’s work together to keep the Trail safe and reduce the need for emergency rescues.
Resources:
- Please visit https://www.gov.nl.ca/alerts/ to learn more about current wildfire information & alerts.
- Monitor the Government of Canada Air Quality Health Index
Stay safe, hike smart, and let’s respect the limits of emergency services.
CRITICAL SAFETY NOTICE: Zero Tolerance Fire Policy
Open fires are not permitted on the East Coast Trail at any time. No exceptions. This includes campfires, stoves and all burning materials.
All Hikers (Day & Overnight/Thru):
- Pack only no-cook meals and snacks
- Report any smoke or fire immediately to 1-866-709-FIRE (3473)
- Be prepared to accurately communicate your location on the trail
- Strongly consider cold-soaking meals as a fire-safe alternative
The East Coast Trail runs through fragile ecosystems, private lands, and coastal forest. One slip-up and we’re looking at charred trails, evacuated communities, and firefighters diverted from other emergencies.
Hikers must always follow local fire ban regulations in provincial campsites and private property. Use the Provincial Fire Hazard Map for the most up-to-date fire regulations. The current fire ban will not be reassessed until September.
The only safe flame is NO flame.
HYDRATION ADVISORY
Before You Hike:
- Drink 500ml (16 oz) of water 2 hours before starting
- Include electrolyes
- Check urine color – should be pale yellow
- Always bring more water than you think you will need
During Your Hike:
- Drink 150-250ml (5-8 oz) every 15-20 minutes
- Drink consistently throughout the hike rather than waiting until you feel thirsty, as thirst is already a sign of dehydration
- For hikes over 2 hours: Always include electrolytes
Water Requirements:
- Short hikes (under 10km): 2-3 liters
- Long hikes (10km+): 3-5 liters
- Hot days (above 29°C/85°F): Add 1 extra liter
DANGER SIGNS – STOP HIKING IMMEDIATELY:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Any sign of nausea
- Headache
- No longer sweating despite heat
- Dark yellow urine
Essential Hot Weather Tips:
- Start hiking before sunrise
- Seek shade every hour
- Wear light colors and a hat
- Carry more water than you think you need
- Only hike on familiar terrain & consider your current fitness level
Heat exhaustion can become life-threatening. When in doubt, turn back.