Cartreau Point Trail
Trail Info
Cartreau Point Trail is a stunning 9.5km trail designed and built by Great Northern Trail Association. Cartreau Point Trail is a premier hiking destination to view Icebergs and whales. It includes a 7.5km loop with constant views of beautiful coastline, dramatic cliffs, and a panoramic view of St. Anthony. Plus a 2km out and back detour to Wolf Point that will give you a great view of Fishing Point Park, and St. Anthony Bight. Cartreau Point Trail is our flagship trail completed in 2024, and it is the number one trail that GNTA would recommend in the area. This is a popular trail for hiking, trail running, and mountain biking. Dogs are welcome, but must be on a leash.
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Route Type
- Loop
- Distance
- 9.5km
- Elevation
- 400 m
- Average Time
- 2 h 30 min
The Cartreau Point Trail is a remarkable 9.5km trail, created by the Great Northern Trail Association (GNTA). Offering stunning coastal cliffs, unique rock formations, and panoramic views. This sustainably designed trail incorporates local materials and provides a diverse hiking experience, from short, forested paths to the dramatic coastal scenery at Cartreau Point. The cliffs here are a particular highlight, showcasing fascinating rock formations.
Starting from either the Crémaillère Road Trailhead or the Fishing Point Trailhead, the full loop winds through varying landscapes, with opportunities for wildlife spotting, including whales, seals, and seabirds. For those looking to extend their hike or connect with other trails, the Fishing Point Trailhead offers a direct connection to Fishing Point Park and the Daredevil Trail, famous for its 476 steps leading to panoramic views of the coastline and the town of St. Anthony.
Wolf Point Path (The Pig) Addition: Locally known from the sea as “The Pig,” a highlight of the full loop is the 1.1 km linear Wolf Point Path. This detour brings you closer to the shoreline, making it a prime location for whale watching, as whales often feed in the waters here. The secluded viewpoint offers breathtaking views of Fishing Point and the ocean, with the occasional iceberg drifting by during the season.
Flexible Loop Options: The Cartreau Point Trail provides multiple loop options, allowing hikers to customize their adventure based on time, stamina, and interests. The trail’s intersections within itself and other paths, including those at Fishing Point Park, make it easy to explore the area further or shorten the hike if needed.
Getting There: Cremaillere Road Trailhead: This trailhead is ideal for those starting the full loop and offers quick access to the primary trail system. Fishing Point Trailhead: For hikers looking to combine their Cartreau Point experience with a trip up the Daredevil Trail or other Fishing Point Park trails, this trailhead is the perfect starting point. It’s conveniently located near the coastline and allows for a scenic ascent through the trail network.
Sustainability and Innovation: The Cartreau Point Trail is the first fully sustainable project from the GNTA, built by their own Great Northern Trail Construction Team using local materials. This trail sets a new standard for eco-friendly trail development, ensuring that the natural beauty of the region remains preserved while providing a durable and enjoyable hiking experience.
Whether you’re looking for dramatic coastal cliffs, up-close whale watching, or a connection to the iconic Daredevil Trail, the Cartreau Point Trail offers a versatile and unforgettable adventure for hikers of all skill levels.
USE AT OWN RISK
The Great Northern Trail Association (GNTA) is not responsible for any injuries or accidents that may occur while using these trails. Users understand that there are inherent risks to outdoor trail use. By using these trails, users acknowledge and accept the risks involved and agree to hold the GNTA harmless from any liability.
