Postpone Long-Distance Hikes
Critical factors making hiking extremely dangerous:
- Very poor air quality in many areas along the Trail
- Unreliable water sources due to very dry conditions
- Heat warnings and high temperatures in many areas
- Emergency resources stretched thin
- Remote clifftop locations with limited escape routes
- One-way linear trail design makes evacuation challenging
Postpone undertaking long hikes (defined as 10km+) on the East Coast Trail until the:
- Province-wide fire ban is lifted (currently until Sept 7, 2025)
- Paddy’s Pond wildfire contained and state of emergency is lifted
- Air quality returns to safe levels
- East Coast Trail Association confirms path safety
- Normal search and rescue capacity restored
Given these extraordinary conditions, consider avoiding hiking altogether. If you must hike, limit yourself to a maximum of 10km total distance, take frequent rest periods, drink plenty of water, no fires, and never hike alone. The combination of extreme heat, fire danger, and compromised emergency response creates unacceptable risks for longer excursions. Be aware of fire safety notices and closures posted by individual towns along the Trail.
Municipal Trail Closures in Effect
As of August 13th, 2025:
Portugal Cove–St. Philip’s: ALL public trail access CLOSED by Fire Chief order – Effective immediately under Fire Department Operating By-Law Section 5.11.1 – Contact: chief@pcsp.ca – This applies to Long Shore Path and Piccos Ridge Path.
Check with other municipalities for similar closures.
FIRE DANGER ALERT: Zero Tolerance Fire Policy in Effect
No open flames of any kind permitted on the trail – this includes campfires, stoves, and all burning materials.
- Carry only no-cook food options
- Report smoke or fire immediately: 1-866-709-FIRE (3473)
- Know your exact location on the trail if calling for help
- Province-wide fire ban in effect with large fines
A single spark can rapidly become an uncontrollable wildfire.
The only safe flame is NO flame.
Hydration Advisory
Critical Hydration Requirements: For shorter hikes permitted in safe areas:
Before Hiking: Drink 500ml (16 oz) of water 2 hours before starting and urine should be pale yellow
During Hiking: Drink 150–250ml (5–8 oz) every 15–20 minutes, do not wait until you are thirsty and always include electrolytes
Water Needs:
- Short hikes (under 10km): 2–3 liters
- Long hikes (10km+): 3–5 liters
- Hot days (above 29°C/85°F): Add 1 extra liter
Stop Hiking Immediately If You Experience:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- No longer sweating despite heat
- Dark yellow urine
Hot Weather Essentials:
- Start hiking before sunrise
- Seek shade every hour
- Wear light-colored clothing and a hat
- Carry more water than you think you need
Note: In rare situations where short hikes (Under 10km) are safe, choose paths with:
- Multiple exit points in case of fire
- Areas with good air quality
- Areas with no heat warning
- Paths with water sources
Message From: Randy Murphy, President, East Coast Trail Association
This updated advisory reflects the serious and evolving situation on the Avalon Peninsula: multiple out-of-control wildfires are burning, with a regional state of emergency declared and a provincewide fire ban in effect.
This postponement is temporary and precautionary – we want you back on the trail safely when conditions improve. In addition, we have shut down all trail maintenance and enhancement work by our trail crews in compliance with the province’s suspension of all forestry permits. And we will keep you informed of all municipal trail closures in effect via our website and social media.
The East Coast Trail will be here when it’s safe to return. These extraordinary conditions are temporary, and we look forward to welcoming hikers back to enjoy the trail safely once the emergency passes. Your patience, and vigilance, now ensures the trail remains accessible for everyone’s future adventures.
Your safety and the future of the East Coast Trail depends on your vigilance during this emergency. Thank you for your cooperation.
Randy Murphy
President, East Coast Trail Association
Resources
Wildfire Information and Alerts: https://www.gov.nl.ca/alerts/
Government of Canada Air Quality Health Index: https://weather.gc.ca/airquality/pages/nlaq-001_e.html
Monitor eastcoasttrail.com for the latest closures and updates.
East Coast Trail Path Information: https://eastcoasttrail.com/choose-a-path/
East Coast Trail Path Advisories: https://eastcoasttrail.com/path-advisories/