Details
Length: 29km (17.5mi)
Maximum Elevation: 640m (2100ft)
Trailhead Elevation/Location: 90m (295ft) at N48.89621 W58.32287 in the south / 90m (295ft) at N49.05007 W58.18674 in the north
Time: 1-2 Days / 0-1 Night in Tent
Trail Type: Cut Trail at each end (5km in south, 4km in north) and barren unmarked Wilderness Route between.
Difficulty: Challenging*
Condition: The cut section of this trail route at the southern end is in reasonably good shape but is due for some maintenance. The cut section at the northern end (i.e., Hummock Trail) is also in reasonably good condition. Both the Serpentine River/Lake crossing in the south and Blow Me Down Brook crossing in the north vary from late spring until late fall, with higher than normal water levels from spring runoff and after several days of greater than normal rain. However, generally the water level is no more than knee deep.
Experience: This is primarily an unmarked wilderness route across barren mountaintop terrain. Experience with backcountry navigation and wilderness camping (if hiked in 2 days) is a must, and use of a gps (ideally with trail route track) is highly recommended.
Highlights: Simms Gulch, Blow Me Down Brook Gulch, Blow Me Down Brook Falls & possible caribou sightings
Cell Service: On eastern edge of the mountains and some of the highest summits.
Water Sources: All substantial streams and lakes contain potable water. Small slow-moving brooks and bog ponds should be avoided if possible.
Camping: The entire route spans backcountry wilderness and contains no designated campsites. However hikers may set up camp wherever they like, as long as they abide by dry weather fire restrictions and leave no trace.
Hunting Season: As the trail route crosses big game hunting areas, including those allocated to hunting outfitters, caution is recommended beginning in late August (for bow) and early September (for rifle). (Exact starting dates vary from year to year.) Hikers should wear a bright color and keep a safe distance from hunters and big game.
Dog Rating: Extreme and Not Recommended
* Easy > Moderate > Challenging > Difficult
Directions
The northern trailhead (N49.05007 W58.18674) is located above the community of Frenchman’s Cove at the intersection of Salt Water Road with Route 450 on the south side of Humber Arm, Bay of Islands, approximately 20km (12mi) west of the city of Corner Brook.
In the south, the trail route starts at the western end of Serpentine Lake near Serpentine River (N48.89621 W58.32287), which can be found at the end of Logger School – Serpentine logging roads, approximately 36.5km (22mi) from its intersection with the Trans Canada Highway (TCH), which is located approximately 11km (6.5mi) west of the city of Corner Brook and 5kms (3mi) east of Pinchgut Lake. (See gpx track below.)
The southern trailhead is also accessed via Mount Moriah on Route 450. Total logging road distance is 40km (24mi). (See alternate gpx track below.)