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Hiking La Manche Suspension Bridge Trail

ByMelissa

If you’re looking for an easy hike with beautiful scenery, La Manche Suspension Bridge hike is it.

This trail offers a mix of rugged coastline, lush forests, and the thrill of crossing one of Newfoundland’s only suspension bridges.

With well-marked paths and breathtaking views, this gem makes a great stop along the Irish Loop. My favourite part was spotting seals below the bridge!

Let’s get right into everything you need to know about hiking La Manche Suspension Bridge trail, including what to expect, how to get there, and tips for making the most of your adventure.

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La Manche Suspension Bridge Trail Overview

Total Distance: 1.5 miles | 2.4 km

Trail Type: Out-and-Back

Difficulty: Easy-Moderate

Duration: 1 hour

Facilities: Parking lot

History of the Suspension Bridge

Originally built to help the residents of La Manche Village cross the La Manche River, the first suspension bridge was destroyed in 1966 by a storm.

In 1999, the new and current 50 m suspension bridge was built by the East Coast Trail Association and opened in 2000. 

Hiking to La Manche Suspension Bridge – What It’s Like

Hiking to the La Manche Suspension Bridge is a relatively easy hike. The 1.2 km trail is primarily through the forest, with a few rough patches along the path where you need to incline or decline over angled boulders.

Open year-round, you can enjoy it in any season. But know that there is no snow removal in winter.

I started the day watching the sunrise at Cape Spear before going on a puffin tour and then arriving at La Manche.

Along the way, you will pass waterfalls, walk over the bridge, have oceanside views, and, if lucky, spot some of the local wildlife. I saw seals, but others have seen puffins and whales off the coast.

I found this hike to be as picturesque as hiking in Quebec but saw more wildlife, including four seals I spotted from La Manche bridge. It was so cool to watch the 3 relaxing on the rock while the 1 swam around the rock.

Starting in cooler temperatures, I dressed in layers and would remove or add them throughout the walk as I worked up a sweat.

The trail is well-marked but some parts are slippery or muddy, especially after rain. You’ll want to wear shoes with good grip. I wore regular running shoes and was fine.

After hiking to the bridge, you can continue to La Manche village ruins or return to the trail start heading back the way you came.

How to Get to La Manche Suspension Bridge

While driving along Route 10, you can reach the suspension bridge from Tors Cove, St. Michael’s, Bauline East and the La Manche Suspension Bridge Trail outside La Manche Provincial Park. 

Once parked, it is:

  • 6.4 km hike to the suspension bridge from Tors Cove
  • 4 km from St. Michaels
  • 2 km from Bauline East via the East Coast Trail
  • 1.2 km from the La Manche trail (I chose this shortest and easiest option)

Driving Directions: St.John’s to La Manche  

  • Drive on New Gower Street to NL Route 2
  • Exit towards Route 3, following signs for Goulds
  • Turn left onto Route 3 South
  • Continue onto Southern Shore Highway / Route 10 (Irish Loop) South
  • Once on NL Route 2, follow signs for Route 10 (Irish Loop)
  • Drive almost 40 km and turn left on an unnamed road. There will be a sign for La Manche Provincial Park. Drive past the Provincial Park entry, and take the next side road with the sign for the Suspension Bridge Trail.
  • At the end of the road is a small parking lot. Park there. The trailhead is on your right, where the sign is.

La Manche Suspension Bridge Map

Here is a map that shows you where the bridge is within La Manche Provincial Park:

Tips for Hiking La Manche Suspension Bridge Trail

  • Pack water to take hiking with you to stay hydrated.
  • While you don’t necessarily need hiking boots, wear shoes with good grip to climb up and down angled boulders along the path in the rough sections.
  • Keep an eye out for wildlife. During the suspension bridge hike, you can often spot seals, otters, and bald eagles. 
  • Try not to hike immediately after rainfall, the trail will be muddy, but with proper footwear can still be enjoyed.
  • Finish hiking before dusk, as there are no lights along the suspension bridge trail, and the park is in the wilderness, away from communities.

Where to Stay Along the Irish Loop

When looking for where to stay when driving on the Irish Loop, here are the best picks for each section of the loop (beginning, middle, and end):

Whale House Guest House – Boutique private suites in Witless Bay, NL

Edge of the Avalon Inn – An award-winning Inn and restaurant in Trepassey, NL

The Wilds Resort at Salmonier River – Tucked-away resort and golf course in Holyrood, NL

Final Thoughts on La Manche Suspension Bridge Trail

The La Manche Bridge Trail is a fun and scenic hike.

The combination of stunning coastal views, diverse wildlife, and the thrill of the suspension bridge creates an unforgettable experience.

La Manche Village Path in La Manche Provincial Park is the shortest trail. It’s a great hiking spot that’s not too far from other attractions on the Irish Loop.

Grab your hiking gear and get ready for an adventure in Newfoundland. And if visiting in the summer, don’t forget to stop along the drive there to search for puffins.

Happy travelling!

Travelling to Canada? Read more:

Melissa is the founder of My Beautiful Passport. A Canadian who has explored 15+ countries on 4 continents, she enjoys combining adventure and affordable luxury. Through sharing her own experiences, travel tips, and destination itineraries, she helps others plan their unique adventures whether it be at the beach, in the city, or in the mountains.

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