Having settled into our campsite at Pippy Park for the next few days in St. John’s, we ventured out to visit Cape Spear, Signal Hill, Memorial University Botanical Garden, Pouch Cove, and hiked two sections of the East Coast Trail. Our third day at the campground resulted in an almost full day of rain, so we decided to get some laundry done and clean up UdaVAN a bit (he was dirty from all the previous week’s activities!).
Cape Spear has the distinction of being the first place that sees the sunrise on the entire North American Continent. Unfortunately for us, the weather had other plans, and decided to rain, fog, or be completely cloudy, hiding that beautiful first sunrise. However, we truly enjoyed the trip to the lighthouse and the fantastic views out over the North Atlantic.
Having exhausted the few trails at Cape Spear, we moved on to Signal Hill, where we enjoyed the amazing view of St. John’s Harbour, and the city of St. John’s. We were a bit sad. That sweet Newfoundland dog we saw last year was not there this time, so we couldn’t “pet that dawg!”.
Moving on in a perfectly sunny afternoon, we went to visit the MUN Botanical Garden (aka, Memorial University of Newfoundland Botanical Garden). As expected, the gardens were lovely. What wasn’t expected was seeing a Loon this time on Oxen Pond.
After exhausting the views in the garden, we took a 20-minute road trip up to Pouch Cove. We stopped at Sunrise View which overlooks Pouch Cove Harbour. This exhausted the day, and headed back to campsite for dinner (smash burgers, with cheese fried onions and peppers, and for condiments, we did the works!).
The next day was spent cherry picking portions of the East Coast Trail, a 209-mile hiking path that follows almost the entire East Coast of Newfoundland. Some of the most fantastic views on the entire Atlantic Coast can be seen from this trail network. We spotted a few hearty souls who were “thru-hiking” the entire length. Not having the kind of time it takes for us to do that, we opted for hiking a few of the more northern sections.
Sad to say, our last day in this beautiful area must be dedicated to good housekeeping (sweeping and laundry), and somewhat decent hygiene (yes, we took a shower!). While at Avalon Laundry, we met a nice couple from Québec who were kind enough to forgive us for our lack of French. We wish them safe travels and a joyous journey. Now for the lovely Irish lady whose voice would be music to anyone’s ears, we are grateful for her kindness, wish her and her husband a lovely and joyous summer (Joyous Vagaries does not give out names or personal details of the people we meet).
Next up, Elliston. We are truly looking forward to this next piece of our journey.
Travel often, stay safe, well, and happy!
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