Cupids has two accessible areas for a stroll: the harbour front boardwalk and Pointe Beach. There are also two off-‐road walking trails—on Spectacle Head and Burnt Head — each with its own distinct attractions.
Spectacle Head Trail
Massive Spectacle Head—or “Sparticle Head,” as some residents call it—dominates the north shore of Cupids Harbour. The 100-metre climb to its bald summit brings you face to face with “the American Man,” a tall stone cairn that has stood on the hilltop in one form or another for generations. The view out to Conception Bay is spectacular.
If you prefer not to climb to the top, fork left after the path passes a bog midway up. A gentler trail will lead you around the base of Spectacle Head to the former site of Cupid harbour’s lighthouse.
Trailhead On Quay Road before the entrance to Quin-Sea Ltd., on the harbour’s north side
Length approx. 1.5 km to the summit
Conditions Rock, hard-packed earth and grass underfoot; scree (small loose rocks) on the upper climb to the top of Spectacle Head
Amenities None
Cautions The scree slope is a bit of a scramble—up and down. Walkers should use common sense and caution near cliff edges, and take extra care in wet, cold or windy conditions.
Discovering Newfoundland – Hiking Spectacle Head Trail
Burnt Head Trail
The Burnt Head Trail begins at the end of Burnt Head Loop. A 2.7-kilometre circular path, it offers woodland sections as well as meadows and vistas over Bay de Grave and Conception Bay.
This trail’s delights include a sea arch and scenic waterfall, occasional traces of long-gone communities and wonderful blueberry picking in season.
Trailhead Lower end of Burnt Head Loop, parking by the Anglican Cemetery.
Length 2.7 km
Conditions Some stairs and gentle slopes; grass, gravel and boardwalk underfoot.
Amenities 1 outhouse, picnic tables
Cautions May be slippery when wet, with puddles after rain. Hikers should exercise common sense and caution near cliff edges.
Discovering Newfoundland – Hiking the Burnt Head Trail
Discovering Newfoundland – Burnt Head Loop Trail
Volunteers Welcome!
The two hiking trails in Cupids are overseen by the Town and a volunteer Trails Committee.
Do you have a suggestion or want to join the Committee (or an occasional work party)? We’d love to hear from you!
Simply drop an email to townofcupids@eastlink.ca, with attention to the trails committee.