Details
Length: 29km (17.5mi) traverse of the Long Range Mountains from tower road opposite the entrance to Cape Ray in the south to the parking lot of Starlite Trail in the north.
Maximum Elevation: 580m (1,900ft)
Trailhead Elevation/Location: 60m (197ft) at N47.66484 W59.27787 in the south and 15m (49ft) at N47.78264 W59.23435 in the north
Time: 2 days / 1 night in tent
Trail Type: Mostly dry and grassy barrens across mountaintop plateau with gravel road to communication tower and ATV trail in the south, and cut trail (ie., Starlite Trail) in the north
Difficulty: moderate*
Condition: The Starlite Trail section in the north receives occasional maintenance, as does the tower road in the south.
Experience: This is primarily an unmarked wilderness route across barren mountaintop terrain. Experience with backcountry navigation and wilderness camping is a must, and use of a gps (ideally with trail route track) is highly recommended.
Highlights: Good views of glacier-carved valleys and gulf coast, grassy mountaintop plateau, and possible moose and caribou sightings
Cell Service: Cell service only on the western edge of the mountains
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: moderate
* Easy > Moderate > Challenging > Difficult
Directions
The starting point for the Starlite Trail in the north and tower road in the south are located directly off the Trans Canada Highway, the latter 400m (1,310ft) north of Route 408 to Cape Ray. Gps coordinates above.