The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Saint John's

Tucked beneath the cliffs along the coast near St. John's, Cuckold Cove offers a rugged glimpse of Newfoundland's shoreline at its rawest. Waves crash against the rocky coast below, while the surrounding headlands provide wide views of the Atlantic. The cove can be reached by a short side trail and feels surprisingly secluded despite its proximity to the city.

This viewpoint is the standout moment of Ladies Lookout Trail, rewarding the climb with a sweeping panorama of Newfoundland’s rugged coast. From here, waves crash into hidden coves far below and rocky headlands arc into the Atlantic, framed by forests and sky. It’s an open, windswept spot that feels wild and expansive, perfect for lingering with your camera or soaking up the endless horizon. Sunsets here can be especially memorable.

Long Pond sits in the heart of St. John’s, bordered by forested slopes and quiet neighbourhoods, making it one of the city’s most accessible freshwater spots for a quick nature break. The shoreline offers calm views, regular birdlife, and an easy escape from traffic despite being minutes from town. It’s a popular place for locals to walk, run, or unwind, especially in early morning or golden hour when the light settles across the water.

Circling the edge of Long Pond, this well-used loop offers a gentle walk through mixed forest with steady lake views and a mostly smooth, family-friendly path. Wooden boardwalks and small bridges keep the route accessible in wetter areas, while short rises add just enough variety. With quick access from nearby neighbourhoods and Pippy Park, it’s one of St. John’s most reliable everyday trails — ideal for relaxed walks, casual runs, or a quiet lap around the water.

Pippy Park stretches across forest, meadows, ponds, and hilltops on the north side of St. John’s. The park offers a wide mix of trails, viewpoints, picnic areas, and family-friendly spaces, along with access to Long Pond and several connector routes. It’s a go-to spot for walking, running, and cross-country skiing depending on the season, and provides a calm, nature-rich counterpoint to the city just beyond its borders. A versatile green space that anchors much of St. John’s outdoor recreation.

Tucked into a narrow harbour on the edge of St. John’s, Quidi Vidi Village blends rugged coastal scenery with classic outport character. Weathered fishing stages, steep lanes and colourful saltbox houses give the area its charm, while craft studios and harbour lookouts make it easy to explore on foot. The village is also home to Quidi Vidi Brewing Company, set right on the water and known for its scenic taproom views. Quietest in the early morning, it’s one of the most atmospheric heritage pockets in the city with quick access to the Sugarloaf Path.

One of the most dramatic sections of Newfoundland’s East Coast Trail, the Sugarloaf Path climbs from the sheltered harbour of Quidi Vidi to high coastal cliffs overlooking the Atlantic. The route is steep in places, with stair sections, rocky footing, and sharp elevation changes, but the viewpoints make it a standout hike — you’ll get sweeping ocean horizons, rugged headlands, and clear views back toward Signal Hill and St. John’s Narrows. It’s a challenging but rewarding trail, best tackled with good footwear and plenty of time for the lookouts.

Tucked into a sheltered inlet on the edge of St. John’s, Quidi Vidi Harbour is a small fishing village known for its narrow wharf, colourful stages, and steep hills rising around the water. Early morning is the best time to visit, when the light is soft and the harbour is quiet before crowds arrive. Space is limited, so parking fills quickly in peak season, and parts of the village often become pedestrian-only on summer weekends. A short stroll along the wharf gives you classic views of boats, saltbox houses, and the rugged coastal character that defines the area.