TRAILS Buckley Cove Trail After winding its way through the forest and along the coast, this trail ends at Buckley Cove. Surrounded by grassy fields, the cove is ideal for exploring. Watch for greater yellowlegs feeding in the barachois along the way. Condition: Boardwalk over several wet areas help make the hike more enjoyable. Due to several wet spots waterproof footwear is recommended. Length - 8 km return Time - 2 hours return Blue Hill West Trail This area, which is recovering from a 1986 forest fire, offers a good opportunity to see forest regeneration. Surviving the fire, some of the largest birch in the park grow here. Watch for the rarest mammal in Newfoundland, the elusive pine marten, which has been seen along this route. Condition: This old fire access road offers moderate to easy hiking and biking for all ages. Due to several wet spots waterproof footwear is recommended. Length - 8 kms return Time - 2 hours return Coastal Trail Following the shoreline you will discover why Newman Sound is designated a Canadian Wildlife Service bird sanctuary. Osprey, terns, greater yellowlegs, and spotted sandpipers feed on the rich supply of food in the estuary. The trail meanders through a black spruce forest with numerous access points to the shoreline, where you can explore the tidal zone. Condition: A leisurely stroll for all ages. During summer the trail is mainly dry. Boardwalks and steps help make the hike more enjoyable. Length - 9 km return Time - 2.5 hours return Dunphy's Pond Trail This trail is ideal for anyone who wants an enjoyable half-day hike. Some of the more uncommon boreal bird species, such as the ruffed and spruce grouse, crossbills, and great horned and boreal owls frequent this area. The call of the loon often greets visitors to the shores of Dunphy's Pond; the largest lake in the park, and a popular spot for canoeing. A new wilderness campsite located near the pond offers visitors a chance to experience the backcountry of the park. All campers must obtain a permit before camping in this area. Condition: A former access road, the trail provides excellent hiking and mountain biking, but the grades can be challenging. Length - 10 km return Time - 3 hours return Green Head Cove Trail Through areas of mature evergreens and young hardwoods, this wide trail provides a pleasant stroll or bike ride for all ages. The old Eastport bridge over the quiet waters of Southwest Arm is an ideal spot for a picnic. While enjoying the scenery of Malady Head, watch for shorebirds, ducks, and osprey feeding in the shallow water of the arm. Condition: The trail offers an easy, enjoyable trip for most hikers and mountain bikers, though there are some challenging steep sections. Length - 5 kms return Time - 1.5 hours return Louil Hill Trail From a thick stand of alders, this trail meanders through a grove of insect damaged fir trees. Locally known as maldow, "old man's beard" lichen hangs mysteriously from the dead branches. At the trail's midway point a detour to the top of Louil Hill provides a breathtaking panoramic view overlooking Alexander Bay. Condition: A dry and leisurely hike. After heavy rains the start / finish section of the loop may become quite muddy. Caution: The detour up to Louil Hill is steep and may be slippery after rain. Length - 4 km loop Time - 1 hour Malady Head Trail On either side of the trail, in the shadows beneath the thick canopy of mature black spruce, grows a rich moss carpet. Look for white indian pipe; an unusual flowering plant that needs very little light to grow. From the lookout platform atop Malady Head there is an incredible view of Southwest Arm and the Eastport Peninsula. Condition: Boardwalk and handrails help make this hike more pleasurable. The end of the trail has a steep grade so caution is advised. Due to several wet spots waterproof footwear is recommended. Length - 6 km return Time - 2 hours return Sandy Pond Trail On this relaxing self-guided trail around Sandy Pond, you will enjoy the boreal forest at its best. Beneath the black spruce and balsam fir trees are ferns, mushrooms, and snowberries. Watch for ducks and their young swimming along the pond's edge. Condition: Boardwalk provides easy access over wet areas. This trail provides an enjoyable hike for all ages. Length - 3 km loop Time - 1 hour Southwest Brook Trail Follow the trail along Southwest Brook through one of the most sheltered areas in the park. The variety of habitats offer opportunities to spot song birds, waterfowl, and shorebirds. In the early evening you might see beavers swimming in the brook near the old beaver dam. Condition: Visitors of all ages will enjoy the stroll. The trail may be wet in spots, especially after heavy rain. Length - 8 km return Time - 2 hours return