Newfoundland and Labrador National Parks
Welcome to Newfoundland and Labrador, the easternmost province of Canada that’s affectionately known as “The Rock.” This province is the meeting point of the New World and the Old, where North America begins and the Atlantic Ocean stretches out as far as the eye can see. With a landmass larger than Japan, this province is known for its vast wilderness, vibrant culture, and warm-hearted people.
Newfoundland and Labrador encompass a rich tapestry of landscapes, from rugged coastlines adorned with lighthouses to awe-inspiring mountain ranges, sprawling forests, and numerous lakes and rivers. These natural assets are accompanied by a captivating blend of human history, with the province being home to one of the oldest known human settlements in North America.
The province has four national parks, each showcasing a unique part of Newfoundland and Labrador’s unparalleled beauty and rich history. In this post, we’ll guide you through the majestic landscapes of Gros Morne National Park, Terra Nova National Park, Torngat Mountains National Park, and the historical trails of Signal Hill National Historic Site. Whether you’re a passionate hiker, an avid wildlife watcher, or a history enthusiast, Newfoundland and Labrador’s national parks offer an unforgettable adventure for every kind of explorer. Let’s embark on this exciting journey!
Map of National Parks in Newfoundland and Labrador
List of National Parks in Newfoundland and Labrador
This easternmost province of Canada hosts a diverse collection of parks that display an extraordinary blend of stunning landscapes, unique geological wonders, and profound cultural heritage. From the UNESCO recognized Gros Morne National Park to the spirit-filled Torngat Mountains National Park, each location provides an inimitable journey through nature and time. This curated list will guide you through the major highlights of each park, helping you plan your next adventure in the captivating wilderness of Newfoundland and Labrador. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or an adventure seeker, you’re bound to find a park that resonates with your exploratory spirit. Let’s begin this exploration!
Gros Morne National Park
Situated on the west coast of Newfoundland, Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its exceptional natural beauty and unique geological features. The park, spanning over 1,800 square kilometers, showcases a dramatic landscape of deep fjords, towering cliffs, and the awe-inspiring Tablelands, where you can walk upon the Earth’s mantle, a geological wonder rarely exposed at the surface.
The park offers over 100 kilometers of hiking trails, leading to breathtaking views, cascading waterfalls, and serene wilderness. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy spotting moose, caribou, and various bird species. The park also has opportunities for sea kayaking, camping, and in winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Terra Nova National Park
As the most easterly national park in Canada, Terra Nova is a place where long fingers of the North Atlantic Ocean touch the island boreal forest of Eastern Newfoundland. The park’s diverse environment, from rugged cliffs to sheltered inlets, provides habitat for a wide variety of wildlife, including black bears and over 200 bird species.
Terra Nova offers a range of activities such as hiking its scenic trails, sea kayaking, swimming, and camping. In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland, ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Torngat Mountains National Park
Located in Labrador, this park is named after the Inuktitut word “Torngait,” meaning “place of spirits.” Covering 9,700 square kilometers, it features breathtaking fjords, high coastal cliffs, and impressive polar bear populations. The park is an important cultural location for the Inuit people, holding archaeological sites over 7,000 years old.
Exploration is guided by Inuit elders and youth who share their stories and cultural experiences. Visitors can hike, camp, enjoy wildlife watching, or engage in winter activities like ski touring and snowmobiling.
Signal Hill National Historic Site
While not a national park, this historic site in St. John’s offers visitors a chance to delve into Newfoundland and Labrador’s past. Known for the final battle of the Seven Years’ War in North America in 1762, it’s also the spot where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901. The iconic Cabot Tower, walking trails with panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic, and historical reenactments make it a must-visit location.
