Head Harbour Lighthouse Trail
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Quick Facts
| Difficulty | moderate |
| Trail Type | linear |
| Distance | 430 metres |
| Estimated Time | 30 minutes return |
| Surface Type | rock, gravel beach |
| Elevation Change | 8 metres |
| Features | lighthouse |
| Trail Markers | signs |
| Scenery Rating | must see |
| Maintenance Rating | well maintained |
| Cell Reception | medium |
| Dog Friendly | no |
| Fees | yes |
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Description
The Head Harbour Lighthouse is an iconic red and white lighthouse off the tip of Campobello Island. The lighthouse is on a rocky island that is only accessible at low tide. You can see the lighthouse from just off the end of the parking lot where there is a picnic table and lookout area. There is also a short trail to the left of the parking lot that will take you out to a point with a good view of the lighthouse.
The main trail to the lighthouse starts off the end of the parking lot. It passes a kiosk where they charge a nominal fee when they are open. You then come to a set of steep stairs taking you down to the beach below. There is a field of seaweed covered rocks between the stairs and the gravel beach. There is a narrow path cut through the seaweed, but the rocks are always wet so use caution.
Once you get to the gravel beach, continue straight to another set of stairs. Climb up onto this small island where you will cross a few meadows and a couple of bridges. Soon you will come to another set of steep stairs that take you back down to the beach near the lighthouse. Near the lighthouse you will cross another seaweed field so use caution. When you get to the lighthouse, you will climb a few stairs to a platform under the lighthouse. There is a picnic table on the platform. From here you can explore around the lighthouse.
Make sure you keep track of the time and the tidal schedule. The lighthouse is a nice place to visit but I wouldn't want to spend 8 hours here waiting for the tide to drop.
From the Sign
EXTREME HAZARD
Beach exposed only at low tide. Incoming tide rises 5 feet per hour and may leave you stranded for 8 hours. Wading or swimming are extremely dangerous due to swift currents and cold water.
Proceed at your own risk
For a tide schedule to plan your trip go to Tide Charts for Campobello Island.
Directions
Drive onto Campobello Island on the bridge. Drive to the low point along Friar's Bay in Welshpool. On the other side of the bay the road will climb to a junction. Turn right at the junction. Drive for 16 kilometres and you will come to the end of the road where you will find the parking lot for the lighthouse. There are lots of signs showing you the way.
Other Trails on Campobello
Trail Last Hiked: August 5, 2023.
Page Last Updated: July 11, 2024.