East Coast Trail
Explore Newfoundland & Labrador
“Dudley”, Chris “Crusher” Abbott & Tracy set out to hike the trail during the summer of 2024. The rugged trail did it’s toll – Injuries and mishaps took both Crusher and Tracy off the trail early. Dudley was lucky enough to complete the trail and he recorded the complete adventure on Video.
The Trail
A long-distance coastal footpath located in the Canadian province of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is a developed trail over 336 kilometres long, the creation of which began in 1994. It is made up of 25 linked wilderness paths and passes through more than 30 communities. It was named one of the best adventure destinations by National Geographic in 2012 and is extended and improved yearly.
The Gear
Bruce AKA “Dudley”, spends countless hours researching and testing gear to get the “perfect” kit tailored for each adventure. Check out his gear choices for the East Coast Trail
The Journey
“Dudley, “Crusher” & Tracy started the adventure together at the southern terminus in Cappahayden. Tracy took sick a few days later and was forced off the trail. A couple of weeks later, Crusher was injured and with regret, and the doctors advice, was also force off trail. Dudley continued to the northern terminus at Topsail and recorded all the thrills and spills on video
The Rewards
The trail passes several National historic sites, including Signal Hill, St. John’s, Cape Spear (the easternmost point in North America, not including Greenland), and Ferryland, the site of the 17th-century Colony of Avalon. It also passes through La Manche and Chance Cove Provincial Parks. There are seasonal views of icebergs, birds, whales, other marine and plant life, and eight historic lighthouses along the path.
Video
Dudley Documented the Adventure on Video
The adventure was captured on video and 5 episodes were created. Virtually join Dudley, Tracy and Crusher on the hike without getting wet, cold or blisters. Chapter #1 is right here ⇩
Dudley, Crusher and Tracy started hiking the East Coast Trail late in the summer for 2024 – Mishaps and injuries did it toll. Only one of them finished. The Video series of the adventure is now available
Dudley’s ECT Gear
Dudley spends countless hours researching and testing gear in order to get the “perfect” kit tailored for each adventure. Dudley’s gear is constantly evolving as new equipment is designed, innovative fabrics are invented and camping styles change.
Navigating the East Coast Trail
Dudley created his own digital map with the GaiaGPS app, including; campsites, post offices, restaurants, water sources, store and food. Download the East Coast Trail GPX file and then upload to your smartphone onto the GaiaGPS app. We always knew where we were and where to go.
Dudley’s ECT Planning
Dudley spends countless hours planning each and every adventure. He always starts with the creation a spreadsheet of the complete route. This will then help guide; timing, pace, food drops, and both places to NERO and ZERO.
Learn more about the East Coast Trail
Visit the East Coast Trail Association website to learn more. You may become interested in helping or perhaps even hiking the trail.