Named for the majestic birds that patrol its cliffs and shorelines, the Trail of the Eagles is a hidden gem on the Avalon Peninsula a 3.6 km coastal loop trail starting and finishing at the beloved Salmon Cove Sands Beach in Salmon Cove, Newfoundland. Compact, beautiful, and accessible to all skill levels, it packs some of the most striking coastal scenery in the region into a trail that can be completed in just over an hour.

From the moment you leave the beach parking area and enter the trailhead on the right, the landscape opens up into a micro-climate of rich coastal flora. The path winds through lush boreal forest filled with spruce, fir, and birch, crossing mossy ground and passing through areas alive with the scent of balsam. Fox tracks are commonly spotted in soft ground throughout the lower forest section, and moose browse the trail edges at dawn and dusk.

The outer end of the loop climbs to a small coastal headland that overlooks Conception Bay, offering dramatic views of the Atlantic and the rugged coastline surrounding Salmon Cove. This is where the eagles soar. Bald eagles are regularly spotted riding thermals above the cliffs, while puffins, seagulls, and other seabirds nest in the rocky outcrops below. On clear days, the view stretches far across the bay, and the sound of the sea fills the air.

On the return loop, several strategically placed viewpoints let you pause and take in the jagged coastline from different angles. Informative signposts along the route share details about the local ecology and wildlife. The trail ends back at the beach, making it easy to extend your visit with time at Salmon Cove Sands, one of the most beautiful sandy beaches on the Avalon Peninsula. The trail is free to access, well-maintained, and suitable for families, casual walkers, birdwatchers, and photographers alike.