The Alexander Murray Trail, Kings Point

Contests

Gift Subscriptions

Take a Hike

Gladly Green

Home

Articles

Take A Hike

The Alexander Murray Trail, Kings Point

Located in Green Bay, in the north central region of the province, this trail crosses forests and bogs before climbing steeply to an elevation of about 1,000 feet. It covers eight kilometres and will take three to four hours to complete, forming a loop so there’s minimal backtracking. Stairs on the steep and long sections of boardwalk over the bogs help you to navigate the terrain—it’s clear that a lot of effort has gone into building the trail. Be sure to include the various side trails: you’ll see impressive waterfalls. Start early enough to stop for lunch at the summit lookout, providing scenic vistas in all directions. To the east you can see down into Green Bay and King’s Point: rolling hills stretch out to the west.

Trail Highlights & Hotspots

The trail is well marked, with countless steps and boardwalks to help navigate the terrain.

It encompasses several ecosystems, starting off in a spruce and fir forest, ending in the alpine tundra with an elevation gain of more than 1,000 feet.

You will pass by thundering waterfalls.

From the summit lookout you get fabulous views of Green Bay and the community of King’s Point.

Green Bay Claim to Fame

In May and June there’s a chance you’ll spot icebergs: Green Bay overlooks “Iceberg Alley.”

From July to August you’ll see seabirds such as northern gannet, puffin, murre and kittiwake.

Whale watching is popular from July to September (whale species include humpback, minke, killer and fin).

If you’re keen to make a few days of exploring the region on foot, note there are other scenic hiking trails nearby at Rattling Brook and Harry’s Harbour. (Lodging and camping are available at King’s Point and nearby Springdale.)

Be sure to visit King’s Point Pottery, known for its saucy boats and knotty baskets.

For more information

Go to centralnewfoundland.com or wildnld.tripod.com

“To anyone in search of the picturesque, this great inlet has many rare attractions, in the varying outline and diversified scenery it presents on all sides. It’s bounded on the north side by a succession of lofty and near vertical cliffs… and to the south by gently swelling hills and valleys richly carpeted by a luxurious growth of mixed forest. All provide a landscape an artist might revel in, with scenes to charm the tourist or traveller…”

Fine words from someone who, as a lieutenant in the Royal Navy, had seen much of the world and wasn’t prone to lavish praise—and they’re as true today as when they were written, many years ago.

Keith & Heather Nicol

Eco-friendly hiking tips:

Pack out what you pack in. Use the waste receptacle at the start/end of the trail.
If you take your dog keep it on its leash, so it won’t harass the wildlife.
Stay on the trail to avoid trampling fragile, low-lying vegetation.