Aspy Trail

The Aspy Trail follows an old logging road through hardwood forest to a clearing with a long view down the geological scar of the Aspy Fault. The grade is gentle and the footing forgiving, making it a good choice for families and shoulder-season outings when higher trails are still snowy. Fall colour here is exceptional in late September and early October. Total hiking time is around two hours.

What you'll see

• A long view down the Aspy Fault — one of the most prominent geological features on the island.
• Mature hardwood forest with yellow birch and sugar maple.
• Brilliant fall colour, with the corridor lit up red and orange in late September and early October.
• A diverse forest songbird community in summer.
• The valley below in deep green or autumn flame, depending on season.

On the trail

• About 7 km return with moderate, sustained elevation gain.
• Wide old-logging-road surface — easy underfoot.
• Allow about two hours for the round trip.
• Well-signed; the lookout at the end is the obvious turnaround.
• A good shoulder-season choice when higher trails are still icy.

What to bring

• Comfortable walking shoes — runners are fine in dry conditions.
• Water and a snack.
• Bug spray in early summer.
• A windbreaker for the open lookout.
• A camera, especially in fall.

Park & access

• Trailhead is signed on the Cabot Trail near Cape North.
• Parks Canada day pass required.
• Vault toilet at the trailhead.
• Open year-round, though winter access is unmaintained.

Combine it with

• Beulach Ban Falls down the road for a quick second stop.
• Cabots Landing Provincial Park for a beach walk.
• The Bay St. Lawrence drive for a side trip to Meat Cove.