The Lion’s Den Trail offers a glimpse into Newfoundland’s rugged coastal beauty and rich cultural heritage on Fogo Island. Only a few minutes from the quaint Town of Fogo, this hiking trail is full of spectacular viewpoints and provides visitors with the chance to learn about once-thriving fishing villages along the route. As a place to appreciate both nature and history, the Lion’s Den Trail comes highly recommended by locals and visitors alike. Follow this scenic loop around the Atlantic coastline for one of the best Fogo Island hikes!
I visited Newfoundland for the first time in August 2022. During my two-week trip, I hiked the Long Range Traverse, spent time in Grand Falls-Windsor, went north to Twillingate, and then finally to Fogo Island. On a cool and foggy morning, I took the ferry across to the remote and enchanting isle of Fogo, with approximately 2,500 residents. At the visitor centre, the friendly staffer suggested both Brimstone Head and Lion’s Den as must-do Fogo Island hikes. With 24 hours to explore, I made my way over to the Lion’s Den hike — and I’m glad I did!
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About Lion’s Den Trail
Location: Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Distance: 8 km loop
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Elevation: 230 metres elevation gain
Time: 2 to 3 hours
Family-friendly: Yes, but not stroller-friendly.
Dog-friendly: Yes, but dogs must be on a leash.
Features: The Lion’s Den Trail is a beautiful coastal hike revealing remnants of historic fishing villages once nestled along the coastline. As you hike around a mix of rugged terrain and wooden boardwalk and stairs, encounter the preserved wilderness on one of Newfoundland’s most popular islands. As a moderately easy day hike, Lion’s Den Trail is an excellent option on Fogo Island!
Lion’s Den Trail Map
Finding the Lion’s Den Trailhead
After arriving on the Fogo Island ferry, head north toward the Town of Fogo for about 20 minutes. If you need a coffee or a snack, stop in the village and then head toward Lion’s Den. Follow Main Street for a few minutes through Fogo and then turn right onto Pickett’s Rd. Turn left right away and drive uphill toward the Marconi Wireless Interpretation Centre (pictured above). Lion’s Den Trailhead is less than five minutes from the Town of Fogo. You can park at the lower parking area (see below) or just beyond the Marconi Wireless Centre.
Did you know? The Marconi Wireless Interpretation Centre opened in 2007 as a monument to the significant role wireless communication played in the history of Fogo Island. On the Lion’s Den Trail, visitors can see the original Marconi telegraph station built in 1911 by the Marconi Company. Operating until 1933, this was the only wireless communications station servicing the area.
Lion’s Den Hiking Trail — One of the Best Fogo Island Hikes
Once you’ve finished parking, toss on your day pack and walk up the hill toward the Marconi Wireless Interpretation Centre. Turn around for noteworthy views of Fogo and Brimstone Head across the water. Before you begin, decide whether to hike clockwise or counterclockwise (like me) around the loop (see the map). Stick to the right to discover the original Marconi wireless station that helped fishing communities thrive and communicate with the world. Continue along the southern part of the loop on the fairly gentle grade, with stretches of boardwalk and well-maintained paths.
After climbing up to Lane’s Lookout, head back down and continue into the forest before reaching Lion’s Den Cove. Once you’ve had a chance to explore the trail’s namesake, keep hiking around the northern portion of the loop, passing by abandoned fishing villages and discovering panoramic Atlantic views from Oake’s Hill, Eastern Tickle, and Locke’s Cove lookout platforms. For a nice lunch spot, you’ll find a few picnic tables and benches en route. To complete the full route, expect to cover around 8 km somewhere between 2 to 2.5 hours.
As both a scenic hiking route and an interactive history session, Lion’s Den Trail has something for everyone. Meander along the coastline and take time to read various interpretive panels to gain a sense of the area. Discover the history of four fishing villages — Locke’s Cove, Eastern Tickle, Shoal Tickle, and of course, Lion’s Den — that have since been resettled to other parts of Fogo Island and the province.
Read next: Brimstone Head Hiking Trail on Fogo Island, Newfoundland
What to Bring — Fogo Island Hiking
Are you a seasoned hiker or just starting out? If you’re a hiking beginner, read up on the 10 Hiking Essentials and bring what you need to stay safe out there. When you’re hiking in Newfoundland, it’s always a good idea to have a rain jacket in your day pack. Bring a warm layer for those cool mornings or windy days. As with any hike, carry a water bottle or water reservoir to keep you hydrated, and even a snack to top up your energy. It’s also a good idea to carry a small first aid kit to deal with any minor injuries and a headlamp just in case. Most visitors will be happy with trail runners and you may want hiking poles as well.
Know Before You Go — Hiking in Newfoundland
Parking: You can either find parking in the lower parking area before the Marconi Wireless Centre or in the upper parking area after the Marconi Centre next to the trailhead. No parking fee is required.
Toilets: No toilets or outhouses on the hiking trail. Use the toilet before heading out and practice Leave No Trace principles if nature calls while you’re hiking.
Fees: No parking fee or park pass is required for Lion’s Den.
Dogs: Feel free to bring your four-legged friend. Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times. Please pick up after your pet and use a smell-proof bag to carry out dog poop.
Garbage: If you pack it in, please pack it out. No garbage bins on the hiking trail, but find garbage and recycling bins at the trailhead.
Navigation: The Lion’s Den hike is very well maintained with updated signage throughout. However, you might want to download Lion’s Den on AllTrails for offline navigation.
Wildlife: Keep an eye out and you may catch a glimpse of seabirds and marine life along this coastal route. Never feed or approach wildlife. Let’s do our part to keep wild things wild!
Respect: The Lion’s Den hike offers a worthwhile journey through the scenic and storied landscape of Fogo Island. Show respect for the historical significance of the area and do not remove or damage signage and trail infrastructure.
Read next: Rockcut Twillingate Trails: Coastal Hiking in Newfoundland
Where To Stay on Fogo Island
Are you wondering where to stay on Fogo Island? If a cozy cabin beside the water is your vibe, I highly suggest checking out Escape by the Sea near Seldom. I had a very relaxing stay in The Bakeapple Escape with the ocean at my doorstep. As a fairly new accommodation, I enjoyed the comfortable living area, functional kitchen, and upstairs bedroom falling asleep to the sound of ocean waves. These quaint cottages are ideal for singles or couples on a romantic getaway. If this sounds like your ideal getaway, book your stay here!
Sponsored: A big thank you to Escape by the Sea for providing a complimentary night for my stay on Fogo Island. I had a wonderful visit! Views and opinions about the acommodation are my own.
More Newfoundland Hikes For You
There’s so much to explore in Newfoundland and Labrador! Honestly, I can’t wait to go back someday soon. If you’re looking for hikes in Newfoundland, consider adding some of these to your itinerary:
- Green Gardens Trail: Hiking in Gros Morne National Park
- Top of Twillingate Trail: An Easy Newfoundland Hike (With Views!)
- Brimstone Head Hiking Trail on Fogo Island, Newfoundland
- Rockcut Twillingate Trails: Coastal Hiking in Newfoundland
- Tablelands Trail: Unique and Easy Hike in Newfoundland
Are you planning a trip to Newfoundland? Do you want to hike Lion’s Den Trail on Fogo Island? Let me know in the comments!
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Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
