The Skerwink Trail is one of the most scenic hikes we did in Newfoundland, offering mind-blowing coastal scenery around every turn. From dramatic rocky cliffs, unique rock formations and sea stacks, grassy plateaus, rocky beaches and views of the ocean and towns of Trinity and Port Rexton, you won’t be bored or disappointed on this 5.3 km loop.
Travel & Leisure Magazine once ranked it one of the top 35 trails in North America and Europe, and we can see why. The trail is well-designed, well-maintained, and offers great rewards for its minimal distance and difficulty.
Newfoundland is called Ktaqmkuk in the Mi’kmaq language and means “land across the water.” Ktaqmuk, including the areas of Port Rexton and Trinity, is the traditional and unceded territory of the Mi’kmaq and Beothuk. The Beothukwere the island’s original inhabitants, and believe to be extinct.
We are honoured to travel here, and experience the richness of the land and water that has been a place for gathering, hunting, fishing and community for Indigenous people since time immemorial.
Skerwink Trail Information
Distance: 5.3 km loop
Time: 1.5-3 hours, depending on your photo stops
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with a few steep sections that have wooden stairs. There are roots, rocks and boardwalks on the trail, so wear sturdy footwear.
Trail conditions: The Skerwink Trail is well-maintained and mostly flat, with a few inclines and declines along the way. For the steep sections, there are wooden stairs. The trail has some rugged areas with rocks and roots to step around, and a few boardwalks.
It skirts along steep cliffs without rails, so please keep a safe distance and a close eye on children!
Skerwink Hike Trailhead
The starting point for the Skerwink Trail is near Trinity East and Port Rexton, just a three-minute drive off Highway 230 south on Rocky Hill Road. The trailhead is well-marked, and a small parking area is located on the north side of Rocky Hill Road. Street parking is also available.
Note: Google Maps will show you trial access to Dog Cove. Do not attempt to start here, as there is no parking available and very little room to turn around!
Hiking the Skerwink Trail
The Skerwink Trail is a loop, and we recommend you hike it clockwise, starting at the trailhead and passing the red Skerwink Trail Station building. By going in this direction, you’ll get dramatic views of Dog Cove and Trinity Harbour near the end of the loop.
The start of the trail is flat and wide, and takes you through a rural neighbourhood in Port Rexton before getting into the trees. After about one kilometre, you’ll get to the coast and start taking in those breathtaking views!
There is also a trail that cuts through the loop, allowing you to get straight to the views without meandering along the coast. This is a good option if the height and drop of the cliffs make you nervous! You’ll find that the Coastal Inland trail between kilometres one and two.
As you go along, you’ll see breaks in the trees with views of towering sea stacks, cliffs and the wild ocean. Take your time and enjoy the natural splendour. Several viewpoints have benches where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
You’ll come to an open plateau offering views of the endless Atlantic Ocean and a few rocky islands teaming with seabirds. As you go along the trail, you’ll get more views like this as it pops out onto headlands overlooking the water.
Safety warning: There are plenty of open and safe places to take photos, so watch the edge of those cliffs and don’t get too close. The drop off the cliffs is dangerous, so please keep children close.
Looping back towards Port Rexton
As you get to the south end of the loop, the quaint town of Trinity and its pretty harbour will come into view. You’ll see the Fort Point lighthouse and the historical buildings of Trinity. If you have the time, we highly recommend spending the afternoon exploring this beautiful and historic town.
Then Port Rexton comes into view as you walk through an old forest of gnarled, wind-bent trees that closes the loop and brings you back to the trailhead.
Where to eat in Port Rexton
After the hike, kick back and relax for snacks or a meal in Port Rexton. A popular spot is Two Whales Coffee Shop, which serves specialty drinks, vegetarian food, and delicious baked goods.
Our favourite spot in this area is the Port Rexton Brewery. They have some great brews on tap, including gluten-free beers, plus snacks and food available from the Oh My Cheeses Food Truck. There’s indoor seating, but on a nice day, you’ll enjoy their expansive deck and patio nestled in a meadow. The garden is both kid- and pet-friendly, and it’s stocked with board games.
Where to stay in Port Rexton
Inns and guest houses
Port Rexton: Port Rexton is a small community with a rural vibe, but there are a few vacation rentals, cottages, and inns in town and near the Skerwink Trail. The Fisher’s Loft Inn and the Middle Hill Cottage offer comfortable accommodations in Port Rexton.
Trinity: You’ll find more options in nearby Trinity, as half of the buildings in town are bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals. Trinity is only a 13-minute drive from the Skerwink Trail. Find places to stay in Trinity.
Camping near Trinity and Port Rexton
There are two good options for camping near the Skerwink Trail. Since Northern Explorers often travels via campervan, we were able to check out both.
Trinity Cabins: We stayed one night at Trinity Cabins, which offers both cabins and a small, open-style RV park with power, water, washrooms, and showers. The campground is next to the road, but traffic is light and it is quiet enough. The owners are super friendly and accommodating. There is also a small store and café at Trinity Cabins.
Lockston Path Provincial Park: We also stayed a couple of nights at Lockston Path Provincial Park. It’s only 15 minutes away from the Skerwink Trailhead and 20 minutes from Trinity. It’s a well-maintained park with a swimmable lake, playground, comfort stations and large, private campsites. Powered sites are available. Book your campsite at Lockston Path Provincial Park.
