Hiking along the coastline, hikers will have the opportunity to view icebergs, whales, seabirds, and of course, spectacular seascapes while appreciating the solitude of the trails. The coastline has formed the focus of life along the Discovery Trail, and as such, an intimate relationship exists with it. Hikers can retrace four centuries of settlement and subsistence along the coastline of our ancestors as they gathered berries, hunted seabirds and communicated with neighbouring outport communities.

Our coastlines are dynamic - winds, tides, waves and frost inscribe their presence on the shoreline. Sea stacks, caves and arches are predominate features of our coastlines. The geology of the region consists mainly of 570-550 million year old Neoproterozoic rocks which are subject to continuous erosion. Limestone, sandstone and forms of volcanic rocks are also present in the region.

The climate of the area is influenced by the cold Labrador Current. This results in cooler temperatures along the coastline in spring and summer, in contrast, temperatures are above average in the fall and winter. In addition, the Labrador Current transports 10,000 - 15,000 year old icebergs which dot our coastline in late April to early June. The frequency of these icebergs varies annually. Our trails traverse coastal cliffs up to 100m in elevation while providing a chronology of time within rock outcrops. The landscape of the trails vary: rolling topography and headlands provide excellent viewing platforms, beaches and coves provide ample opportunities for beach combing. Coastal cliffs and ledges are prominent along most trails, hikers are advised to use caution along these sections.

The trails have been designed for the walker and hiker. Several trails are less than 5km in length, to a maximum of 17km. Linear, looped and stacked looped trail designs are available. All trails have directional signage and maps available for purchase. Besides the natural features of the trails, users can admire our cultural assets: hike to the abandoned communities of Kerley's Harbour and British Harbour, view the lighthouses of the Kings Cove and Port Union trails, or visit the site of a natural fort during Queen Ann's War of 1703-13, in Champney's West.