East Coast Trail – Picco’s Ridge Path
This part of the East Coast Trail is rated as strenuous and can take between 7-9 hours, which will take you all the way to Bauline. Further details and maps can be found on the East Coast Trail website.
To access the popular entry point of Picco’s Ridge Path, park behind the volunteer fire hall at 1819 Portugal Cove Road, in rear of the lot as designated by signage. Hike to Portugal Cove Road, turn left, and walk 250m to Loop Drive. Turn right onto Loop Drive. Hike 150m and turn right onto Hardings Hill. Cross the bridge, then hike 300m to North Point Road. Proceed 250m to the end of North Point Road where the Picco’s Ridge trailhead sign is located. Hikers are not permitted to drive or park on North Point Road.
The area at the end of North Point Road where the trails starts is locally known as “The Geeze”. Local lore suggests that the area got its name from a slang of the word gaze as this area is ideal for overlooking the ocean. Lore also suggests that Gaspar Corte Real buried deceased sailors in the area.
And if you’d like to take a picnic on your adventure, check out our PICNIC PATH!