The Honourable Steve Crocker, Minister of Industry, Energy and Technology, has announced C$110,100 to support the East Coast Trail Association’s 2025 Trail Enhancement Project.
The East Coast Trail is an important tourism asset for Newfoundland and Labrador, attracting more than 15,000 annual visitors and supporting more than 20 communities on the Avalon Peninsula.
The investment will help revitalize six kilometres of heavily utilised trail sections and replace critical infrastructure across the East Coast Trail’s 336-kilometre network. The enhancements will improve safety and visitor experience, support local tourism operators, and help maintain the trail’s status as a world-class hiking destination.
The 2025 enhancements will focus on high-priority sections including the Caplin Bay Path between Calvert and Ferryland, and the Beaches Path between Witless Bay and Mobile. Funding will also support critical infrastructure assessment and replacement across the trail network. The project will support 18 seasonal jobs, enhance the safety and experience of the trail, and support the long-term sustainability of the trail network.
The Provincial Government’s contribution through the Regional Development Program leverages $283,822 in funding from other government sources and $46,478 from the East Coast Trail Association, for a total project cost of $440,400. The Regional Development Program provides support by way of non-repayable contributions to organizations for the development and implementation of economic initiatives with respect to regional and sectoral development, diversification, innovation, and key emerging sectors.
“Investing in the East Coast Trail project will boost tourism, help sustain tourism operators and the communities that benefit from the trail network, and support seasonal employment. It’s a good example of how strategic regional development can deliver lasting economic benefits,” Crocker said.
“The East Coast Trail is more than a hiking trail – it’s a living connection to our province’s natural beauty, heritage and community spirit. This investment reflects our commitment to enhancing outdoor recreation, supporting local economies and ensuring that Newfoundland and Labrador remains a top destination for adventure seekers from around the world,” said Honourable Fred Hutton, Minister of Tourism, Culture, Arts and Recreation.
“The East Coast Trail connects 24 communities along our spectacular Avalon Peninsula coastline, creating lasting economic opportunities through sustainable tourism. This enhancement project demonstrates how strategic partnerships can preserve our natural heritage while supporting local employment and businesses. We’re proud to work alongside government partners who understand that investing in trail infrastructure means investing in rural Newfoundland’s future,” added Randy Murphy, president and CEO of the East Coast Trail Association.
