Newfoundland and Labrador is Canada’s youngest province, joining in 1949. It includes the island of Newfoundland and a section of the mainland called Labrador. Labrador is remote and sparsely populated (and I haven’t been there yet!), so this guide focuses on the island of Newfoundland, home to 94% of the province’s population.

Nicknamed “The Rock”, Newfoundland has gorgeously rugged scenery with a windswept and craggy coastline. It’s also a rural place with tons of whimsically named fishing villages full of brightly painted cottages clustered around small coves. History runs deep here – the province is home to North America’s oldest settlements.

Besides the beautiful scenery, one of the main reasons to visit Newfoundland is the unbelievably friendly people and the unique culture. Since it is is geographically remote, it has its own accent, dialect, food, and traditions.

Since it’s a big place (it takes 7 hours to drive across the island), it can be tough to know where to go. In this post, I’ve got 20 things to do in Newfoundland and lots of travel tips. It includes:

• A map of Newfoundland with every place I mention in this post marked
• Best things to do in Newfoundland: towns, national parks, wildlife, food and more
• Newfoundland travel tips: how to get there, getting around, when to go, what to pack, and more

Hey there: Thanks so much to Go Western Newfoundland for hosting me during the Gros Morne and Corner Brook parts of my second and third trips to Newfoundland. All other parts of my trips were at my own expense and my opinions are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Map of Newfoundland

To help you find your way around, I made this custom Google Map of Newfoundland for you. It includes every single place I mention in this post.

20 Incredible Things to Do in Newfoundland

Explore St. John’s

St. John’s is Newfoundland’s largest city and is also the provincial capital. With its colourful buildings, great food, and welcoming atmosphere, St. John’s is an easy place to love. On two of my trips to Newfoundland, I spent a few days in St. John’s because there was so much to do.

My guide to St. John’s has the full list of things you can’t miss, but here’s a quick run-down of the highlights:

• Jellybean Row: A cluster of downtown streets have rows of colourful houses that make a great photo op.
• The Rooms Museum: A huge museum and art gallery with great exhibits of Newfoundland’s history and culture. It has great views from the top floor.
• Signal Hill: A great viewpoint just outside of downtown that is also a Canadian National Historic Site. You can also hike here on the North Head Trail.
• Quidi Vidi: A quaint, old fishing village in a protected cove near downtown. Today it has a brewery and artist studios.

St. John’s is also a great base for day trips to Cape Spear, Dildo, and the Avalon Peninsula as well as iceberg, whale watching, and puffin tours. (More on all of those below.)

READ MY ST. JOHN’S GUIDE

Cape Spear

If you visit Cape Spear, you can say you’ve stood on the easternmost point in North America. But it is also worth visiting for the great views of the coast and the iconic lighthouse, which is the oldest one in Canada and is a National Historic Site.

The cape is just 20 minutes from St. John’s. The best way to get there is to drive yourself or to take a tour. The last time I was in St. John’s I visited Cape Spear as part of the City and Cape tour with McCarthy’s Party. It’s a great tour that hits the highlights in the city and then takes you out to Cape Spear.

Dildo

Yes, Newfoundland has a town named Dildo! If you want to visit, it’s a little over an hour outside of St. John’s. Honestly, it would be like any other small town in the province if it wasn’t for the name… but that name has brought the town lots of fame.

The town had been a popular tourist spot for years, thanks to various tongue-in-cheek articles. And in 2019, Jimmy Kimmel did several bits about Dildo on his late-night talk show. In the end, the town made him the honourary mayor and he paid to erect a huge Hollywood sign-style sign spelling out “Dildo” on a hill above town.

There isn’t much to see in Dildo, but it’s still fun to grab photos of the sign. You can also head to Dildo Brewing, which has craft beer and pub food. If you need cheeky souvenirs, both Dildo Brewing and Nan and Pop’s Dildo Souvenir Shop can help you out.

Avalon Peninsula

I have to admit that despite three trips to Newfoundland and over a month spent in the province… I haven’t really been anywhere on the Avalon Peninsula besides St. John’s, Cape Spear, Bay Bulls (for a puffin tour), and the Argentia ferry terminal.

And that’s entirely my fault. I’ve heard great things about the area, I just haven’t made time to visit. In fact, it’s one of the most popular tourist areas in the province since it’s an easy drive from St. John’s. Highlights include bird watching at Cape St. Mary’s Ecological Reserve, fossils at Mistaken Point, puffins, whales, and icebergs in Bay Bulls, roadtripping along the Irish Loop, and hiking the East Coast Trail.

Trinity

Trinity is the prettiest town in Newfoundland. It’s a tiny place, tucked into a protected harbour at the end of a narrow peninsula about 3 hours from St. John’s. Historically, it was one of the most important merchant fishing towns in the province. Today, the remaining buildings are protected as heritage sites and most of the town is geared towards tourists.

That gives Trinity a bit of Newfoundland-meets-Disney feel. That could be cheesy, but I think they’ve done a good job of respecting the heritage and making things feel authentic.

My guide to Trinity has lots of things to do as well as all the info you need to visit.

The main draw in Trinity is the town itself. I recommend giving yourself an hour or two to just wander around and gawk at all the adorable old houses.

The other big attraction is the Rising Tide Theatre, which stages several Newfoundland-themed plays each summer. They also offer a popular walking tour/theatre performance.

If you’re into the outdoors, Trinity also has good kayaking and hiking (don’t miss the Skerwink Trail one of the best hikes in Newfoundland) as well as boat tours to see whales and icebergs.

READ MY TRINITY GUIDE

Bonavista

Just up the road from Trinity is Bonavista, my favourite town in Newfoundland. While Trinity is picture-perfect and lovingly restored, Bonavista is equally old, but a bit rougher around the edges. I love the juxtaposition of falling-down buildings with newly refurbished ones. Bonavista is also a real working town with 3000 residents (compared to just 78 in Trinity).

Read my guide to Bonavista for more must-sees in the area as well as lots of travel tips.

The biggest draw is the Bonavista Lighthouse just north of town. The striped facade is on countless postcards, teatowels and even mailboxes all across the island.

You also should visit some of the historic sites in town. On my first visit, we toured the Ryan Premises, which is a National Historic Site. Its exhibits, housed in a 19th-century building, explain the history of fishing in Newfoundland. Other historic sites include the Matthew Legacy, a reproduction of John Cabot’s ship, and the Mockbeggar Plantation, a collection of historic buildings.

If you venture a few minutes outside of Bonavista, you can visit the unique cliffs and caves of Dungeon Provincial Park. Or drive a few minutes further to Elliston, the best place to see puffins from land.

READ MY BONAVISTA GUIDE

St. Pierre and Miquelon

Did you know you can go to France from Newfoundland? The tiny islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon sit just south of central Newfoundland. Founded by French fishermen, the islands are still part of France: the 5,800 residents speak French and use the Euro.

I’ve always wanted to visit the islands, but I haven’t made it yet. To get there you can fly from St. John’s or take a 90-minute ferry from the town of Fortune, which is a 4-hour drive from St. John’s.

Besides the novelty of visiting France, the islands offer cute towns, small museums, boat tours, and stunning nature.

Terra Nova National Park

Unless you’ve been to Newfoundland, you probably haven’t heard of Terra Nova National Park. Compared to stand-outs like Banff, the subdued beauty of Terra Nova just doesn’t get the same press. But it’s still a gorgeous park. It is about 3 hours from St. John’s just past the Bonavista Peninsula.

The park protects vast swaths of coastline, mudflats, and rolling hills. Most visitors will concentrate their time around the Visitor Centre, which has great exhibits about wildlife including touch tanks where you can get up close to sea life.

For great views, make the short drive from the highway to the Ochre Hill Fire Tower. There are several wooden platforms, but if you’re brave, scale the steps to the top of the tower. It was windy on my visit, which added to the thrill/terror.

If you like hiking, the park has over 80 km of trails. I enjoyed the Coastal Trail, which made my list of the best hikes in Newfoundland.

Twillingate

Twillingate is a tiny town in the centre of the province. It sits on a pair of rocky islands and since it’s on the windswept northern coast, it has a rugged and austere beauty that sets it apart from other charming towns like Trinity and Bonavista.

Part of its charm is its isolation. Twillingate stis on the north coast amongst a a cluster of other fishing villages. It’s 5 hours from St. John’s or 4.5 hours from Corner Brook, but I think it’s worth the journey.

Most of the area around Twillingate had no roads until the 1950s and 60s, which means that everything is oriented towards the sea and strung out along the waterline.

My guide to Twillingate has tips for visiting along with lots of things to do.

Twillingate bills itself as the iceberg capital of the world since it’s right in the path of the currents that bring them south from Greenland. It’s often possible to see icebergs from land, but there are several iceberg boat tours as well.

Like other cute towns in Newfoundland, one of the main things to do here is to wander around and admire the old buildings. The nearby Long Point Lighthouse is also worth a visit. And if you like, there are several small museums in the area.

But my favourite reason to spend time in Twillingate is the hiking. The trails range from short and simple to longer and more challenging, so there is something for everyone. The Rockcut Trails are gorgeous, especially the hike to French Head, which made my list of the best hikes in Newfoundland.

READ MY TWILLINGATE GUIDE

Fogo Island

I didn’t get to Fogo Island on my first trip, but after we visited it on our second trip to Newfoundland I was kicking myself for not going sooner. Fogo is so unique! The only way to get to this small island near Twillingate is by ferry.

Check out my Fogo Island guide to learn more about visiting and more must-sees on the island.

For decades after the collapse of the cod fishery, the island stagnated. But in the last decade or two, a revitalization project and social enterprise have transformed Fogo. Today it has a network of excellent hiking trails, nine picturesque towns to explore, and a thriving arts scene with artisans, galleries, and studios you can visit.

The backbone of the social enterprise project is the Fogo Island Inn, an ultra-luxury hotel catering to wealthy guests with high-end food and lots of included day tours. However, you don’t have to stay at the hotel to enjoy it – you can take a free tour to get a close-up look at the interesting architecture.

The hiking on Fogo is some of the best in the province. The barren landscape is gorgeous and allows for lots of views. The trail to the top of Brimstone Head made my list of the best hikes in Newfoundland.

READ MY FOGO ISLAND GUIDE

Corner Brook

I know Corner Brook doesn’t make some people’s lists of the best things to see in Newfoundland… but it should. Corner Brook is the second largest city in the province and by far the biggest city in the western part of the province.

While it is a regional hub for government and business, it also has a scrappy small outdoor town feel with incredible access to nature and an up-and-coming food scene with craft beer and good coffee.

My guide to Corner Brook has a full list of things to do and tips for visiting.

Corner Brook is a great place to base yourself for a day trip to the nearby Bay of Islands region which has incredible hiking and kayaking along with some really cute old fishing villages like Little Port. The entire region is part of the aspiring Cabox UNESCO Global Geopark to recognize its exceptional geology. The South Head Lighthouse Trail is on my list of the best hikes in Newfoundland.

READ MY CORNER BROOK GUIDE

Gros Morne National Park

Located in Western Newfoundland near Corner Brook, Gros Morne National Park is gorgeous – if you’re interested in hiking and the outdoors, it’s worth coming to Newfoundland just to visit this park. The park is fairly large, spreading across the coastline and over mountain ranges. It also includes a few charming small towns.

If you’re thinking of visiting, read my guide to Gros Morne National Park, which has lots of trip planning advice and more things to do.

There are a few key highlights in Gros Morne:

• Tablelands: Hike over rocks from Earth’s mantle exposed at the surface.
• Green Gardens: A hike to the coast through a forest so lush that it reminded me of Hawaii.
• Bonne Bay: A deep inlet cutting through the middle of the park, best appreciated from a boat tour.
• Western Brook Pond: A former fjord that is now a lake. Take a boat tour to appreciate the steep terrain rising up from the lake.

READ MY GROS MORNE GUIDE

L’Anse aux Meadows

Most people learn that the first European to visit the American was Christopher Columbus. However, in the 1960s, archaeologists discovered evidence of a 1000-year-old Norse settlement at L’Anse aux Meadows near the northern tip of the island. That means the Vikings beat Columbus to North America by nearly 500 years!

Today, L’Anse aux Meadows is a Canadian National Historic site and UNESCO World Heritage site. I made the long drive up there (5.5 hours from Corner Brook) on my first visit to Newfoundland. The site protects the remains of the Norse buildings and also has reconstructed buildings and interpretive displays.

I spent a fun day wandering around and chatting with the costumed actors who reenact Viking life. It’s a fascinating place, and while it’s tough to get to, I thought it was worth it.

Road Tripping

On two of my visits to Newfoundland we drove across the island on an epic road trip. With lots of paved roads, tiny towns, and viewpoints, Newfoundland is an ideal road trip destination.

One of the most popular itineraries includes is an east-to-west (or vice versa) trip across the province between St. John’s and Gros Morne National Park.

If you want to take a shorter trip, you could drive around the East Coast hitting up St. John’s, the Avalon Peninsula, and the Bonavista Peninsula. Or stick to the West Coast by visiting Corner Brook, Gros Morne National Park, and L’Anse aux Meadows.

Whichever itinerary you choose, leave lots of time for unexpected stops. We found ourselves pulling over to take photos, explore villages, and stop at small cafes.

You can also visit out-of-the-way attractions, like the International Lounge at the Gander Airport, where it is still 1959 and the age of transatlantic air travel is brand new. (They also have exhibits about the flights that landed here on 9/11 and inspired the musical, Come From Away.)

Whale Watching

While I haven’t been whale watching in Newfoundland, I’ve heard great things. (I skipped whale watching on my trips since I live in BC and have been kayaking with whales.) Since Newfoundland is way out in the Atlantic, it’s right on lots of whale migration routes including the annual summer migration of humpback whales. You can also see other species of whales and dolphins.

Many boat tours combine whale watching with spotting icebergs and seabirds like puffins as well as touring the picturesque coastline. (More of puffins and icebergs below)

The most popular place to take a whale watching tour is Bay Bulls and Witless Bay about 30 minutes south of St. John’s. You can also book whale watching tours in Trinity and Twillingate.

Icebergs

One of the coolest things to do in Newfoundland is iceberg viewing. (Sorry, I couldn’t resist the pun!) In spring and early summer, icebergs drift south from Greenland towards Newfoundland along a rough path called Iceberg Alley.

The best time to go iceberg spotting is May and June. We didn’t see any icebergs on my first trip to Newfoundland since we were there in August. But we planned our second visit for June in the hopes of seeing one.

Often you can see the icebergs from land (binoculars help), but nothing beats seeing them up close on a boat tour. The north coast of the province is the best place to see them but it’s also possible to see icebergs near St. John’s.

The icebergs aren’t predictable and move every day. In some years icebergs are plentiful, while in others (like the year I visited) there aren’t that many around. You can book iceberg tours in Bay Bulls near St. John’s or in Trinity, but for the best chance of seeing them, I recommend going to Twillingate or other small North Coast towns.

You can use Icebergfinder.ca to get the latest locations for icebergs you can see from land or via a tour. I found the Newfoundland and Labrador Iceberg Reports Facebook group super helpful on my trip. It was updated more often than Icebergfinder and it had up-to-date reviews on boat tours.

We went to Twillingate looking for icebergs but there weren’t any. So, we used the info from the Facebook group to find out that there was an iceberg in a bay near a tiny town called Brighton 3.5 hours away. We also got a recommendation for a local tour guide (Clarey of Badger Bay Boat Tours). We booked a B&B, then made the drive.

It was incredible to see the iceberg up close and we got to experience a part of Newfoundland that not many tourists see since it was so off the beaten path.

Puffins

Puffins are adorable so they get the most press, but you can also see tons of other bird species in Newfoundland. The best time to see puffins is the summer nesting season between mid-May and late September – they head down south and out to sea the rest of the year.

The first time I went to Newfoundland I wasn’t that into birding. We took a boat tour and saw the puffin colonies from the water. I got hooked on these clown-like birds with their wobbly walk that contrasts with their grace once they dive under the water. Since then I’ve seen puffins in Iceland and Haida Gwaii, BC. So of course, on my next trip to Newfoundland, we looked for puffins everywhere we could.

The most popular way to see puffins is to take a boat tour in Witless Bay and Bay Bulls which combines puffin spotting with whale watching. (They might also take you to see icebergs in the spring/early summer iceberg season.)

But you can also see puffins from land in a few places near Bonavista. As a bonus, it’s totally free and there’s a zero percent chance you’ll get seasick.

I think the best place to see puffins from land is at the Elliston Puffin Viewing site near Bonavista. We had puffins walking right up to us! You can also see puffins from land at the Bonavista Lighthouse and on the Klondike Trail (one of my picks for the best hikes in Newfoundland.

Hiking

The main reason I have been to Newfoundland three times is to go hiking – the province has incredible trails. While there are long and challenging trails, most routes are easy to moderate and take half a day or less. That makes them perfect for tourists since you can go for a beautiful hike but still have lots of time for sightseeing.

My list of the best hikes in Newfoundland includes my top 16 hikes across the province.

There are gorgeous trails all over the island – you can even hike up Signal Hill in the heart of St. John’s on the North Head Trail. But if you want to spend a lot of time hiking, I recommend you concentrate your stay around the hikes in Gros Morne and Twillingate, my two favourite hiking areas.

READ MY PICKS FOR THE BEST HIKES IN NEWFOUNDLAND

Get “Screeched In”

The Newfoundland tradition of getting “screeched in” is a quirky ceremony that welcomes visitors (known as Come From Aways). The ritual involves taking a shot of Newfoundland rum, called screech, kissing a codfish (which is usually frozen) and eating a cube of bologna (nicknamed Newfoundland Steak).

It’s a silly tradition that’s mostly for tourists, but it’s also lots of fun. The best place to get screeched in is at one of the bars on George Street in St. John’s. However, you can get screeched in at bars and tourist businesses across the province. If you take a multi-day bus tour in the province, it will almost always include getting screeched in.

Unique Newfoundland Food and Drink

Since Newfoundland is so isolated and has only been part of Canada since 1949, it has a distinct food culture. Like most coastal places dominated by the fishing industry, it has world-class seafood. But it also has some quirky Newfoundland food and drink that you have to try.

You can find Newfoundland-style cuisine on restaurant menus everywhere from small towns to the city. A trip to the grocery store is also an experience to see what Newfoundlanders actually eat.

Some restaurants I recommend across the province include:

• Chafe’s Landing in Petty Harbour near St. John’s for lobster rolls
• Mifflin’s Tea Room in Bonavista for fish n’ brewis or toutons
• Annie’s Harbour Restaurant in Twillingate for cod tongues
• Bangbelly Bistro on Fogo Island for modern takes on traditional Newfoundland food
• Boomstick Brewing in Corner Brook for craft beer
• The Salt Box in Bay of Islands for seafood, moose tacos, and more
• Seaside Restaurant in Trout River for fried fish
• Chanterelle’s in Norris Point for partridge berry cheesecake

Here’s a quick list of some uniquely-Newfoundland foods you have to try:

Appetizers and Sides:

• Cod tongues: Deep-fried cod tongues have a texture a bit like calamari with a cod flavour.
• Fries with dressing and gravy: Like Quebecois poutine but instead of cheese curds they put turkey stuffing (dressing) on top of the fries, then pour gravy over top.

Mains

• Fish and brewis: a mash of soaked salted cod and hard tack bread with fried pork fat on top
• Moose: Newfoundlands love to eat this invasive species and put the lean meat into burgers, pasta sauce, tacos, and more
• Jigg’s Dinner: a traditional Sunday meal of salt beef boiled with cabbage, potatoes, and carrots
• Flipper pie: A pot pie made with seal flipper meat. It has a VERY strong fishy taste that not everyone will like.
• Fish n’ Chips: This is not unique to Newfoundland but what is unique is how prevalent it is. I dare you to find a menu in the province that does NOT include fish n’ chips!
• Mary Brown’s Chicken: This fried chicken chain started in Newfoundland and now has hundreds of locations across Canada. It’s so pervasive in the province that you can find locations in some of the provinces’ small, remote towns.

Desserts

• Bakeapples: also known as cloudberries, they taste a bit like blackberries and are often made into jam or pies
• Partridge berries: A bit like cranberries, these are also often found in jams, pies, and baked goods
• Toutons: fried yeasted dough eaten with molasses, syrup or jam, usually for breakfast
• Purity candy: This 100-year-old Newfoundland company makes several types of old-school hard candy including Peppermint Nobs and their infamous Climax Mix
• Jam Jams: Packaged sponge cookies with a jam filling.
• Crush Pineapple: A sickly sweet soda, like Crush Orange but with pineapple flavour instead of orange.

Newfoundland Travel Tips

History of Newfoundland

Indigenous Beothuk and Mi’kmaq people have lived on the island of Newfoundland since time immemorial. In 1497 when John Cabot landed at Bonavista, he “claimed” it for England. In the next few centuries, Basque, Portuguese, and French fishermen frequented the waters and set up small fishing settlements.

Newfoundland became an English colony in 1713 under the Treaty of Utrecht and English settlement begun in earnest. By the 1930s, Newfoundland’s economy was in trouble. In 1949, Newfoundlanders voted to join Canada as the 10th province.

Historically, cod fishing was the backbone of the province’s economy. However, the cod fishery collapsed in 1992, leading to widespread poverty. Today fishing for other species dominates the economy along with oil and gas, mining, and of course, tourism.

Since Newfoundland is geographically isolated, it has a unique culture that blends aspects of England, Ireland, and Canada. Newfoundlanders also have a distinct accent that sounds a bit Irish, and a distinct vocabulary, sometimes called Newfoundland English or Newfinese.

How to Get to Newfoundland

Since it is an island, the only way to get to Newfoundland is to fly or take a ferry.

The main airports are in St. John’s and Deer Lake near Corner Brook. You can get direct flights from major Canadian cities like Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, Ottawa, Calgary, and Edmonton.

It’s also possible to get to Newfoundland by ferry. This option makes the most sense if you driving your own car or RV. There are two ferry terminals: Argentia in the east is 1.5 hours from St. John’s. Port aux Basques in the west is 2.5 hours from Corner Brook. Both ferries leave from North Sydney in Nova Scotia.

Travel times by ferry are long: it’s six to eight hours to Port aux Basques and 15 hours to Argentia.

Getting Around Newfoundland

Newfoundland is big so you can expect long travel times between locations. For example, if you drive across the province from St. John’s to Corner Brook, it takes about 7 hours without stops.

Unless you are sticking around St. John’s or taking a multi-day tour, the only real way to see the province is to rent a car since the only long-distance bus service misses most tourist spots. You can rent a car at the airport in St. John’s or Corner Brook. Heads up: rental cars in Newfoundland are expensive and they book up in summer!

Driving in Newfoundland is fairly straightforward since there aren’t that many roads. The Trans Canada Highway that runs across the island is wide and well-maintained, which makes for easy travel. However, I can’t say the same about many of the smaller highways. Expect twists and turns and lots of potholes. You will often need to travel well under the speed limit.

The weather is very changeable so be prepared to drive in heavy rain or thick fog. You will also want to avoid driving at night since there are more moose than people on the island and collisions with moose are one of the main causes of serious car crashes.

How Long to Spend in Newfoundland

Each time I’ve gone to Newfoundland I’ve spent about 10 to 14 days there. It’s enough time to road trip across the island as well as spend a few days in St. John’s and Gros Morne. However, it’s not enough time to see everything. If you really want to see all of Newfoundland’s attractions, it would take at least 3 to 4 weeks.

I think most visitors will be happy with a trip that lasts 10 to 14 days and takes in some of the major sites around Newfoundland. However, you could also do 5 to 7 days in either the St. John’s/Avalon Peninsula area or the Corner Brook/Gros Morne National Park area.

Since it’s not easy to get to Newfoundland, I don’t think it’s worth visiting if your trip is less than 4 or 5 days.

Best Time to Go to Newfoundland

Newfoundland’s tourist industry is heavily geared towards summer travel. That means between mid-June and mid-September. If you visit outside of those times you’ll be faced with wet weather and closed attractions.

If you’re looking for a different experience than most tourists get, consider visiting in fall. It has perfect hiking weather and less crowds. My guide to fall in Gros Morne and Western Newfoundland has all the info you need to plan a trip.

Weather in Newfoundland

Newfoundland is in the middle of the cold North Atlantic Ocean so even in summer, it’s not that warm. The average summer temperature is 16°C (61°F) but on warm days you can expect temperatures up to 25°C (77°F). Keep in mind that June is spring and September is fall so it will be a bit colder in those months.

The weather is also quite unpredictable. Rain, wind, and fog are common, but you can still get lots of sunny days. Plan your itinerary with some flexibility so that you can do indoor things like museums or galleries on the worst weather days.

Be sure to pack a waterproof jacket and waterproof hiking shoes. You’ll also want a warm mid-layer like a fleece or a lightweight puffy jacket. A warm hat and gloves are also nice.

Newfoundland Time Zone

One of the quirks of Newfoundland is that it has its own time zone: Newfoundland Time (NT). And even quirkier, that time zone is 30 minutes off from the next time zone over. So if it’s noon in New York (Eastern Time), it’s 1 pm in Halifax (Atlantic Time) and 1:30 pm in St. John’s (Newfoundland Time).

Cell Phone Service in Newfoundland

While you’ll find reliable 5G cell phone service in the cities and major towns, parts of Newfoundland don’t have great cell phone service. You will get at LTE in most towns, but smaller villages will have patchy service or no service at all. As well, some highways have no service or poor service.

Make sure you download offline maps when you have service and look things up in advance. The upside is that there are road signs most places so you won’t get lost. And the locals are super friendly so can always just pull over and ask someone for directions. The only danger is that they’ll talk your ear off for 15 minutes before you can get back on the road!

Where to Stay in Newfoundland

Outside of St. John’s you won’t find chain hotels. Instead you’ll find small, locally-owned inns and guesthouses. You can book some of them on major platforms like Booking.com or VRBO, but for others you’ll have to book through their website directly.

A few places that I recommend are:

• Russelltown Inn in Bonavista: rooms in gorgeously restored heritage homes.
• Hew and Draw Hotel in Corner Brook: a gorgeous modern hotel with so many local touches
• Bonne Bay Inn in Gros Morne: A motel-style inn with incredible views of Bonne Bay and Gros Morne Mountain
• Sugar Hill Inn in Gros Mornet: A quaint inn with a huge front porch and an incredible in-house restaurant (Chanterelle’s.)

Restaurants and Grocery Stores in Newfoundland

While larger towns have lots of restaurants and groceries, if you’re heading to some of the smaller villages, options become a lot more limited. Some small villages may not have a restaurant or grocery store, or if they do, it will have limited hours or a limited menu.

If you follow any special diets (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.) you may want to buy your groceries in a larger town and book places with a kitchen. And even if you aren’t on a special diet, it’s worth keeping enough snacks to put together a makeshift meal in case you get caught in a place where food isn’t available.

It’s also worth mentioning that the food in small villages is often very processed and/or fried and grocery stores very rarely have fresh vegetables. Expect lots of fried food and potatoes on all menus. But simple things like pasta, sandwich fixings, etc. are readily available.

Cash and Credit Cards in Newfoundland

You’ll need both cash and credit cards in Newfoundland. Most places accept both, but there are a few that only take one or the other.

Historically, businesses in small or remote places didn’t take credit cards and wanted you to pay with cash. However, now that cell service is more widespread, now some places don’t take cash since it takes so long to get to the bank to deposit it. In particular, many businesses on Fogo Island don’t take cash.

So bring both cash and credit cards. And of course, this is Canada, so you’ll need Canadian money. Some places will accept American cash, but they take it at par, which is usually a terrible deal on the exchange rate for Americans.

Final Thoughts

In some ways, Newfoundland reminds me a bit of Iceland: incredible scenery, friendly people, and a great place for a road trip. Honestly, I’m surprised that it isn’t as popular as Iceland since they have similar vibes. However, Newfoundland has a fraction of the crowds.

If you want to visit a part of Canada that looks and feels nothing like the rest of the country, go to Newfoundland. The geography and culture as so different. From the adorable towns to the wildlife sightings to the hiking, there’s just something about this place that draws me in.

And after three trips to Newfoundland, I still haven’t seen everything. Next time I go, the Avalon Peninsula and St. Pierre and Miquelon are definitely on my list of things to do. I’d also like to hike more of the East Coast Trail and explore the Bay St. George area on the southwestern part of the island.

If you want help planning your trip to Newfoundland, I’m happy to answer your questions. Ask them in the comments or book a trip planning call with me.

READ NEXT:

• 18 Best Things to Do in St. John’s
• 12 Things To Do in Trinity
• 10 Things To Do in Bonavista
• 10 Things To Do in Twillingate
• Things to do on Fogo Island
• Things to Do in Corner Brook
• Things to Do in Gros Morne National Park
• 16 Best Hikes in Newfoundland

The post 20 Incredible Things to Do in Newfoundland appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

Even though a quarter of Newfoundlanders live in St. John’s, it’s not a huge city. It has a population of just 113,000. But thanks to its history as a British colony (it didn’t join Canada until 1949) and its geographic isolation from Canada, Newfoundland has a unique culture that really shines through in St. John’s.

The city has a compact downtown that is easy to explore on foot and feels like history is around every corner – many of the places I recommend in this post are National or Provincial historic sites! Between the historic stone buildings and brightly painted Victorian townhouses, St. John’s is one of the cutest cities I’ve visited.

This guide to things to do in St. John’s, Newfoundland includes:

• St. John’s Basics: How to get there? How long to spend? Best time to go? What’s the weather like? And lots more.
• Map of St. John’s that includes all the places I mention in this post.
• Best things to do in St. John’s: Museums, cute fishing villages, historic sites, viewpoints, hikes, and more.
• Where to stay in St. John’s: My picks for the best hotels and B&Bs.

Planning a trip to Newfoundland? I’ve got a big list of the best things to do Newfoundland plus lots of travel tips for the province.

Hey there: Thanks so much to Destination St. John’s for hosting a few of my activities during my second trip to St. John’s. All opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

St. John’s Basics

How to Get to St. John’s

St. John’s is located on the East Coast of Newfoundland. Most visitors fly into St. John’s International Airport, a 15-minute drive from downtown.

You can also get to Newfoundland via Marine Atlantic ferry from Nova Scotia. The ferry terminal is in Argentia, a 1.5-hour drive from St. John’s.

Getting Around in St. John’s

Downtown St. John’s is very compact and walkable, as long as you are okay with hills and stairs. Parking downtown can be hard to find, so it’s best to walk. You can also take a taxi or an Uber.

Depending on your capacity for walking, some of the landmarks close to downtown are also easy to reach on foot. Quidi Vidi, Signal Hill, and the Johnson Geo Centre are 45 minutes to 1 hour walk from downtown. If you’re venturing further out to Cape Spear, Petty Harbour, and Bay Bulls for a whale and puffin tour, you will need a car or to go with a tour.

On my most recent trip, I did a city tour with McCarthy’s Party Tours that included Cape Spear, Petty Harbour, Signal Hill, and Quidi Vidi. The driver shared all kinds of fun facts with us and I think its the best way to see the main sights if you have limited time.

You can also book tours to Bay Bulls for whale and puffin watching that include transportation from St. John’s.

How Long to Spend in St. John’s

After visiting St. John’s twice, I would recommend you spend at least two or three days in the city. That’s enough time to visit the key sights and museums. If you want to visit some of the attractions outside of the city, such as Cape Spear or whale and puffin tours in Bay Bulls, allow yourself an extra day.

Best Time to Go to St. John’s

Summer in St. John’s is roughly mid-June to early September and is the best time to visit because the weather is the nicest and you’ll be able to see puffins and whales. However, as long as you are prepared for rough weather, you can visit St. John’s at any time of year.

St. John’s Weather

The weather in St. John’s can be all over the place, even in summer. Average summer temperatures are between 10 and 20°C. Temperatures the rest of the year are usually between -9 and 16°C. June, July and August are the driest months.

Although it is often gorgeously sunny here, it also rains frequently, especially in the spring, fall, and winter. Fog and wind are also common, making it feel much cooler than it is. Pack a rain jacket and a warm jacket like a fleece or lightweight puffy jacket, just in case.

Newfoundland Time Zone

You might be surprised to hear that Newfoundland has its own time zone. And you might not believe me if I tell you that is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic time (1.5 hours ahead of Eastern time), but it’s true!

When time zones were established, Newfoundland was its own Dominion (it hadn’t joined Canada yet), so they got to choose, and that’s what they picked.

St. John’s Map

To help you find your way around, I made this custom Google Map of St. John’s for you. It includes every single place I mention in this post.

Best Things To Do in St. John’s

St. John’s is a small city, so it’s easy to see it in a few days. I’ve listed my picks for the best things to do below starting with things in the downtown core and branching out from there. Most things are with walking distance and the farthest attration is a 30 minute drive away.

Admire the Houses on Jelly Bean Row

Jelly Bean Row refers to the brightly coloured Victorian row houses in St. John’s. An urban legend says that the houses were painted rainbow colours to make it easier for fishermen to find them in the fog.

However, that’s not true – before the 1960s and 70s, most houses in St. John’s were painted white because that was the cheapest colour! It seems that the bright colours were part of a downtown revitalization scheme. In any case, they are gorgeous.

There is no specific Jelly Bean Row street – instead, you’ll need to wander around downtown admiring the houses. However, you can find some of the best ones on any of the streets uphill from Duckworth Street. In particular, I recommend checking out Gower Street, Bannerman Street, Colonial Street, Kings Road and Victoria Street.

Stroll Down Water Street

Water Street is the heart of St. John’s. Part of the street is a National Historic Site of Canada to recognize the city’s mercantile history in the mid-19th century. Today you can stroll down Water Street and admire the historic buildings alongside modern structures.

Water Street is also the best place to shop for cheesy souvenirs or browse boutiques selling local and artisanal goods. I recommend Newfoundland Weavery for handmade goods, and The Bee’s Knees for sustainable products.

You will also find most of St. John’s restaurants along Water Street. For laid-back vibes, I recommend Yellowbelly Brewery, a microbrewery with good pub food. If you want coffee and a sandwich, Rocket Bakery is excellent. Adelaide Oyster House has a hip atmosphere, fresh oysters, and great fusion small plates. And while I didn’t have time to visit, my friend raved about the foodie-focused fine dining at Terre.

Get Screeched in on George Street

George Street is the center of St. John’s nightlife. It’s tiny, at just two blocks long, but it’s dense – every single business is a bar and as the night wears on, the revelry overflows onto the street.

Getting “screeched in” is a Newfoundland tradition meant to welcome non-Newfoundlanders, known as “Come From Aways” in Newfoundland English. The best place to get screeched in is the bars of George Street. Christian’s Pub is particularly popular.

Screech is the Newfoundland name for high-alcohol spirits, usually dark rum. The “screeching in” process has several steps. Fist, you kiss a codfish (it’s usually frozen), and then take a shot of screech. There’s also a short recitation about loving Newfoundland. In some places, you finish by eating a cube of bologna, nicknamed Newfoundland steak. When you’re finished, you’ll get a souvenir certificate.

It’s a silly tradition and is mostly for tourists, but it’s still lots of fun. I got screeched in on my first trip to Newfoundland and I have to say that kissing the cod isn’t as gross as the Sourtoe Cocktail, which I did in Dawson City Yukon, a few years later.

Walk Along the Harbour

St. John’s is a port city. Most of the island’s goods are shipped through here and it’s also a hub for ships supplying the offshore oil and gas industry. It’s worth a walk along the harbourfront to check out the action. If you’re curious about where the ships are going, you can look them up on Vessel Finder.

Due to security, you can’t get up close to the ships. But you can walk along Harbour Drive and check out the huge ships through the railing. Or head to Harbourside Park on Water Street. It’s the only place you get all the way down to the water and is my favourite place to look out at the harbour. It also has great statues of a Newfoundland dog and a Labrador retriever dog.

Admire the Historic Architecture

St. Johns is one of the oldest settler-founded cities in North America. It was seasonally settled in 1497 and formally established in 1583. While most of the city’s buildings aren’t quite that old, there are lots of notable historic structures.

Finished in 1855, Basilica of St. John the Baptist sits on a hill high above the city on Military Road near The Rooms Museum. It is a National Historic Site of Canada and is built in the Romanesque style. It is the second-largest church in Canada.

The Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist is also worth a visit. Located on Gower Street, it dates back to 1850 and has Gothic Revival architecture.

The St. John’s Courthouse on Water Street is also a National Historic Site of Canada. Finished in 1904, the stone building was designed in the Romanesque Revival style

You can also stroll around Government House, which sits in the middle of sprawling grounds and gardens on Military Road. It is the home of the Lieutenant Government of Newfoundland.

Visit the Newman Wine Vaults

The Newman Wine Vaults is a provincial historic site that’s worth a visit. The legend is that a Portuguese ship loaded with port ended up overwintering in St. John’s in the late 1600s. The port tasted better after aging in Newfoundland, so Newman and Company of England built stone wine vaults and aged their port in Newfoundland for nearly 300 years.

My husband visited the wine vaults during our last trip to Newfoundland while I was at a conference. He said the guided tour was really interesting and he loved the free sample of port at the end.

Learn About Newfoundland’s History at the Colonial Building

Dating back to 1850, the Colonial Building housed the colonial government before Newfoundland joined Canada. Today, it is a provincial historic site that you can visit on a guided tour. A recent renovation has restored some of the rooms to their 1880s finishes including some elaborate ceiling frescos.

This is another spot that my husband visited without me while I was at a conference. He came back with all kinds of facts about the history of Newfoundland that I didn’t know. As Canadians, our education about Newfoundland starts in 1949 when it voted to join Canada. But they have a long and interesting history as a British Colony and then as a Dominion that you can learn about here.

Enjoy Dinner and a Show at Spirit of Newfoundland

I’m not usually a dinner-and-a-show kind of gal when I’m travelling. But on my most recent visit to St. John’s, I attended a conference where Spirit of Newfoundland provided the entertainment on two of the nights and it was great.

Music is such a huge part of Newfoundland’s culture, and this is a great way to experience it. Spirit of Newfoundland has several different productions, each with a live band, skits, singers, and a three-course dinner. You’ll learn a bit about Newfoundland and laugh a lot.

Wander Through The Rooms Museum

The Rooms is the largest museum and art gallery in Newfoundland. The building is designed to look like a giant version of the fishing shacks that traditionally dotted Newfoundland’s shoreline. These shacks were known as fishing rooms, which explains the museum’s name.

I made time to visit The Rooms on both of my visits to Newfoundland, and I really enjoyed it. The exhibits about Newfoundland’s history are well done. As I mentioned, as a Western Canadian, I don’t know that much about Newfoundland and it was fascinating to discover the way their colonial and fishing history has shaped their culture.

The museum also has several art galleries showcasing the works of Newfoundland artists. I enjoyed these spaces way more than I thought. Altocumulus by Max Streicher was particularly cool – it’s a billowing sculpture of clouds that you can walk under.

One of the best reasons to visit The Rooms is the incredible view from the terraces on the fourth floor. Be sure to visit both the north and south terraces since they have different perspectives on the city.

Explore the Battery Neighbourhood

The Battery is one of St. John’s most interesting neighbourhoods. (In Newfoundland English it’s pronounced “batt-ree” not “bat-ter-ee”.) The entire neighbourhood clings to the side of Signal Hill on the side of a cliff.

Historically this area was an important part of the city’s defense. There were gun emplacements here and at one time, a defensive chain stretched 174 meters across the harbour’s mouth.

I loved wandering between the colourful houses, taking photos, and enjoying the view of the harbour below. It’s also the start of the North Head Trail to Signal Hill. (More on that hike below.) Stop at The Battery Cafe for coffee and a muffin. They also have live music a few nights a week.

Enjoy the View at Signal Hill

Signal Hill stands out from most places in St. John’s. The 167-meter-tall hill has a commanding view of downtown St. John’s, the harbour, the narrows, and the wild Atlantic Ocean beyond. Historically it was strategically important for the defense of the city.

Most of the hill is a Canadian National Historic Site and there are info boards along the various paths that explain the history of the hill. The stone Cabot Tower on top of the Hill also has some good interpretive displays. Until 1958, the flag poles on the top of the tower were used to communicate with ships offshore by raising and lowering different coded flags.

While the history of Signal Hill is interesting, the reason most people visit is the incredible view. Be sure to walk the paths around the summit and down to the Queen’s Battery – they all have different views.

Hike the North Head Trail

The North Head Trail takes you up and around Signal Hill. The hike starts right from downtown St. John’s, in the Battery neighbourhood. From there, you hike through the narrows and then start your ascent of Signal Hill on several sets of wooden stairs.

There are lots of incredible viewpoints along the way and even a set of iconic Parks Canada red chairs to take a break at. I loved this trail and it made my list of the best hikes in Newfoundland.

The North Head Trail is actually part of two much longer trail systems. It sits roughly in the middle of the 270-kilometre-long East Coast Trail that follows the East Coast of the Avalon Peninsula. The North Head Trail is also part of the Trans Canada Trail, which meanders 28,000 km across Canada.

Go Underground at the Johnson Geo Centre

On my first visit to Newfoundland, we visited the Johnson Geo Centre. Most the building is underground, carved into the rocks of Signal Hill. The exhibits explain Newfoundland’s geology (including why it is nicknamed “The Rock”) along with info about the solar system, the formation of the earth, and Newfoundland’s oil and gas industry.

Visit Quidi Vidi Village

Pronounced “kiddy viddy” in Newfoundland English, Quidi Vidi is an old fishing village right next to downtown St. John’s. It’s an easy 45-minute walk along Quidi Vidi Lake to get there. You can also take a taxi or bus route 15 or visit as part of a city tour. There isn’t much parking, so it’s best to go car-free.

Stroll along the water to admire the picturesque old fishing shacks, many of which are now summer cottages. Go for a beer at Quidi Vidi Brewery, a craft brewery inside a former fish plant. Shop at the Quidi Vidi Village Artisan Studios. Or go for a high-end dinner at The Mallard Cottage, a historic home that is now one of Canada’s best restaurants.

Stand on the Eastern-Most Point in Canada at Cape Spear

Cape Spear is the easternmost point in Canada and North America (excluding Greenland). It’s a 20-minute drive from downtown St. John’s. There is no public transport so you’ll need to drive yourself or take a tour to get there.

There are several viewpoints where you can look out at the ocean or down the rocky coast. It’s also worth following the footpaths around the site to see the view from different angles.

The lighthouse at Cape Spear is the oldest surviving lighthouse in Canada and is a National Historic Site of Canada. You can take a guided tour to learn about what life for the lighthouse keepers would have been like. As well, it was an important defensive gun battery during World War II and you can still walk through the underground bunkers.

The viewpoint at Cape Spear.

Explore an Old Fishing Village at Petty Harbour

The tiny (and adorable) village of Petty Harbour is just down the road from Cape Spear, so it makes sense to visit both at once. Spend a few minutes wandering along the waterfront where you can watch lobster fishermen unload their catch.

Get a meal at Chafe’s Landing restaurant. It’s one of the best places to eat freshly caught seafood (especially fish and chips or lobster rolls) in the St. John’s area.

Take a Whale and Puffin Tour in Bay Bulls

Bay Bulls is an easy 30-minute drive south of downtown. It’s the closest place to St. John’s to take boat tours in Witless Bay Ecological Reserve where you can spot whales, puffins, and lots of other seabirds.

Boat tours run several times a day between May and September and some include transportation from St. John’s. We did this tour on our first trip to Newfoundland and that’s when I fell in love with puffins. (It was my first time seeing them.)

You will see puffins or other seabirds on all tours. But of course, but whale sightings aren’t guaranteed. The best time to see whales is July and August. And if you visit in the spring and early summer, you might also see icebergs.

Pro tip: If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring some Dramamine (sold under the brand name Gravol in Canada).

Eat Seafood

Newfoundland exists because of the cod fishery. Cod (and to a lesser extent lobster) are king here, and you’ll be missing out if you don’t try some. You can get cod any time of year, but lobster is only in season between April and July.

Many Newfoundlanders don’t really like fish that much, and aren’t into lobster since historically it was a lower-class food. But they do love fish and chips. There is a fierce debate about where to get the best fish and chips in St. John’s. But most people will agree that either the Duke of Duckworth, Ches’ Famous Fish and Chips or Leo’s Restaurant is the best.

If you’re looking for a classic poached lobster dinner, head to the St. John’s Fish Exchange Kitchen and Wet Bar or Saltwater Restaurant, both on Water Street.

It’s a bit out of town, but Chafe’s Landing restaurant is known for their lobster rolls. (That’s a lobster salad sandwich served on a dinner roll.)

You’ll also find great seafood on the menu at pretty much any restaurant in the city. Locally grown mussels and scallops are great, either on their own, in pasta, or in seafood chowder. If you’re feeling a little bit adventurous, try the deep-fried cod tongues. They have a bit of a calamari vibe.

Where to Stay in St. John’s

St. John’s has tons of accommodation options from huge international chains to boutique hotels to quaint vacation rentals. Here are a few places I recommend:

Alt Hotel: With modern rooms (many with great views) and a great location on Water Street, Alt Hotel is the coolest hotel in St. John’s. Check rates.

Murray Premises: Set inside a collection of historic mercantile buildings in the heart of downtown, some rooms at the Murray Premises have original details like exposed brick and wooden beams. Check rates.

Jellybean Row Townhouse: Many of the colourful townhouses on Jellybean Row are Airbnb vacation rental apartments with full kitchens and hang-out spaces. Check rates.

Final Thoughts

If you’re visiting Newfoundland, devote a few days to St. John’s. It’s a small city, but it has so much history. I don’t always love spending time in cities when I travel, but I love this one. (Perhaps it’s because you can hike right from downtown?)

If you’ve got questions about the best things to do in St. John’s ask in the comments. I’d love to help.

READ NEXT:

• 20 Incredible Things to Do in Newfoundland
• 12 Things To Do in Trinity, Newfoundland
• 10 Things To Do in Bonavista, Newfoundland
• 10 Things To Do in Twillingate, Newfoundland
• Things to do on Fogo Island, Newfoundland
• Things to Do in Corner Brook, Newfoundland
• Things to Do in Gros Morne National Park
• 16 Best Hikes in Newfoundland

The post 18 Best Things to Do in St. John’s, Newfoundland appeared first on Dawn Outdoors.

I’ve hiked all over the province. While I haven’t been everywhere in Newfoundland (yet!), I have been to most places. And on my most recent two trips, I hiked every day, sometimes on two or three different trails a day! (Honesty check: I didn’t hike a few of the days I was attending a conference in St. John’s, but that was out of my control.)

Most of the hikes in this post are easy or moderate, but there are a few tough options, especially in Western Newfoundland. I’ve also got tips for hiking in Newfoundland at the end of the post. This list of the best hikes in Newfoundland includes:

• Quick picks: My top 5 best hikes in Newfoundland
• Newfoundland hiking map that shows the location of every trailhead
• Hikes on the Avalon Peninsula near St. John’s
• Hikes in Eastern Newfoundland near Bonavista and Trinity
• Hikes in Central Newfoundland in Terra Nova National Park and near Twillingate
• Hikes in Western Newfoundland in Gros Morne National Park and near Corner Brook
• Newfoundland hiking tips including fees, weather, gear, and more

Planning a trip to Newfoundland? I’ve got a big list of the best things to do Newfoundland plus lots of travel tips for the province.

This is a sensitive wilderness area. Learn how to Leave No Trace to keep the wilderness wild. Make sure you are prepared by bringing the 10 Essentials. Get ready for adventure with this checklist of things to do before every hike.

Hey there: Thanks so much to Go Western Newfoundland for hosting me during part of my trip to Newfoundland. All opinions in this post are my own. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission at no cost to you. Thanks for your support. -Taryn

Best Hikes in Newfoundland Quick Picks

Best Easy Hike: French Head, Twillingate

Best Moderate Hike: Green Gardens, Gros Morne National Park

Best Challenging Hike: Tablelands, Gros Morne National Park

Best Hike Close to St. John’s: North Head (Signal Hill)

Best Hike Close to Corner Brook: South Head Lighthouse

Newfoundland Hiking Map

Most of the hikes on this list are easy to follow. But sometimes the trailheads can be hard to find or there are lots of confusing unmarked trails that can lead you astray. As well, cell service can be spotty. I recommend using a hiking app like AllTrails+ to stay on track.

I also made a custom Google Map for you that shows you the locations of the trailheads for all of my picks for the best hikes in Newfoundland. But DON’T use Google Maps once you are on the trails. There is often no cell service and Google doesn’t show the trails correctly (or at all in some cases).

Best Hikes on the Avalon Peninsula

North Head Trail (Signal Hill), St. John’s

Difficulty: Moderate

Time Needed: 1 to 1.5 hours

Distance: 3.5 km loop

Elevation Gain: 160 m

You can hike to the top of Signal Hill right from downtown St. John’s. It’s one of the best urban hikes I’ve ever done and is on my list of the best things to do in St. John’s. I actually started my hike right from the front door of my hotel – I dipped out for a sneaky hike between sessions at a conference!

The loop is 3.5 km long, but if you hike from downtown, that adds another 1 to 2 km. You can start the loop hike from Battery Road, from the Signal Hill Visitor Centre part way up, or from the top of the hill. I went counter-clockwise, but either direction is fine.

Since I started from downtown, I walked through the colourful cliffside houses in The Battery neighbourhood first. (It’s pronounced batt-ree in Newfinese, not batt-er-ee.) The trail begins at the end of North Battery Road and curls around North Head. There is one narrow section with a chain, but it’s not really needed.

From there, you’ll arrive at a set of Parks Canada red chairs, since this is a National Historic Site. Enjoy the view and take a rest before beginning the big climb up lots of stairs to the top of Signal Hill. The view of downtown St. John’s from the top is incredible.

There are a few ways to descend. I followed the Queen’s Battery Trail downhill, then took an informal trail towards Deadman’s Pond. I used an informal trail back down to Battery Road to close the loop.

If you’re walking back to downtown St. John’s, stop at The Battery Cafe on your way back. Their iced coffee really hit the spot at the end of my hike!

Bay Bulls Lighthouse/Spout Path, Bay Bulls

Difficulty: Moderate or Challenging

Time Needed: 3 or 8 to 10 hours

Distance: 7.2 or 22 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 320 or 1040 m

While I have hiked the West Coast Trail and North Coast Trail on Vancouver Island, I haven’t hiked Newfoundland’s iconic East Coast Trail yet. It follows the rugged Atlantic Coast for 270 km on the Avalon Peninsula. (The North Head Trail, above, is actually part of the ECT!)

If you’re looking to get a taste of the ECT on a day hike, try the Spout Path in Bay Bulls. My friend Gemma hiked this section as part of her multi-day trip along the East Coast Trail.

She hiked the Spouth Path from end to end (16.2 km total), but she says “most day hikers start at the Bay Bulls trailhead and turn around at the Spout (11km one way). It makes for a long but rewarding day for experienced hikers.” The Spout is the highlight of the trip. It’s an impressive wave and river-powered geyser.

If you don’t have time to go all the way to the Spout, Gemma recommends stopping at Bay Bulls Lighthouse about 3.6 km from the trailhead. “The exposed trail offers sweeping views of the ocean and intricate coves,” Gemma explains. She also says that people often see whales!

If you are in Bay Bulls, don’t miss taking a puffin and whale watch trip. I did this tour on my first trip to Newfoundland and it was so fun. You’ll cruise through the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. For me, the highlight was spotting puffins and lots of other seabirds. But whales are also common, and sometimes you can see icebergs too!

Mistaken Point, Portugal Cove South

Difficulty: Easy

Time Needed: 4 hours

Distance: 6 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 65 m

Mistaken Point UNESCO World Heritage Site is a special place. Located at the southern end of the Avalon Peninsula, it protects a huge collection of ancient marine fossils, preserved in the prehistoric ocean floor for over 565 million years.

Since the fossils are so important, the only way to see them is on a guided hike, which is fairly easy but lasts for four hours since you make so many stops to look at fossils. I haven’t made it out to Mistaken Point yet, but my friend Stephanie who runs The World as I See It just came back from a visit.

“I highly recommend booking the guided hike,” Stephanie says. “The knowledgeable guide shared interesting details about this unique environment as we hiked along the scenic coastline. At Mistaken Point we took our shoes off to walk out on the rocks that hold the fossils which made this hike a truly unique experience.” Sounds super cool! I can’t wait to see the fossils on my next trip to Newfoundland.

Chance Cove Coastal Trail, Chance Cove

Difficulty: Moderate

Time Needed: 1.5 to 2 hours

Distance: 4 km loop

Elevation Gain: 150 m

This gorgeous coastal trail is located on the edge of the Avalon Peninsula and has incredible views of some sea stacks and islets. It starts in the small community of Chance Cove and immediately heads up a big hill into the forest. The path can be muddy, so wear waterproof boots.

About 15 minutes from the start, the path heads back down to sea level to a viewpoint on the edge of Chance Cove Point. Next the trail forks. Take the left path which follows the coast out to a headland. There are several cliffside viewpoints along the way.

Once you round the headland, a stairway leads down to a small beach. Back on the main trail, you can follow two spur trails to more viewpoints atop Green Head. Just past the spur trails a steep trail with a rope leads down to another beach if you are up for a challenging scramble. After the rope, the trail goes inland and up and over a small hill to rejoin the main trail. Turn left and follow the trail back to the start.

Best Hikes in Eastern Newfoundland

Skerwink Trail, Port Rexton

Difficulty: Moderate

Time Needed: 1.5 to 2 hours

Distance: 5 km loop

Elevation Gain: 150 m

Several online sources call the Skerwink Trail the best hike in Newfoundland. The day I hiked it was foggy with sideways rain, so I can’t say I agree. But despite the weather, it was pretty spectacular. The trail starts in Port Rexton near Trinity and makes a loop around Skerwink Head.

In places, the trail sticks close to the cliff edge with lots of views of the coastline and Trinity Harbour. But in other places it heads inland through thick forest and bog, using boardwalks and stairs to carry you over the more challenging terrain. The two ends of the loop are on old gravel roads, which make for easier walking than the rest of the trail.

After your hike, get beers at Port Rexton Brewing. Or grab coffee and a sandwich at Two Whales Coffee Shop. I was happy for their delicious veggie soup to warm me up after our soggy Skerwink experience. If you want to support the organization that maintains the trail, you can buy Hike Discovery merch and trail maps online or at local shops.

The Chimney/Klondike Trail, Bonavista

Difficulty: Easy

Time Needed: 45 min to 2 hours

Distance: 2 to 6.5 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: Up to 100 m

Maintained by Hike Discovery, this trail near Bonavista is actually an old horse and cart route between the communities of Spillar’s Cove and Elliston. You can walk the entire route through the forest and wetlands between the two towns. But if you’re short on time, I think the section from Spillar’s Cove to The Chimney is the best part. We hiked it on a foggy day and it was still gorgeous.

It’s an easy walk on an old gravel road out to the coast. From there, you’ll have a great view of The Chimney, an incredible sea stack off to the left. You can follow faint paths off to the left to get closer to the sea stack, but the view doesn’t get any better.

There is also a small islet in the centre of the cove with a puffin colony! The views of puffins aren’t quite as good as at the nearby Elliston Puffin Viewing site, but it’s still pretty awesome to watch them hopping and flapping about.

After your hike, head to Ragged Rocks Gastropub in Bonavista. I had the best seafood chowder of my life there. Such huge scallops! It’s on my list of the best things to do in Bonavista.

Best Hikes in Central Newfoundland

Coastal Trail, Terra Nova National Park

Difficulty: Easy

Time Needed: 3 to 4 hours

Distance: 9.5 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 80 m

This trail leads along the shoreline of Newman Sound in Terra Nova National Park. There are trailheads at the visitor centre and at the day-use area in the Newman Sound Campground so you can start at either end. We were staying at the campground so we started from that end.

The trail parallels the coastline, periodically dipping down to small beaches or viewpoints between the trees. It’s a great place to watch for birds in the mud flats or eagles overhead. You might even see moose along the trail… although might only spot their tracks and poop. About halfway along a side trail leads to Pissamere Falls.

Don’t miss the displays at the Visitor Centre either before or after your hike. They have great displays about the flora and fauna of the park, including touch tanks where you can interact with marine life. But my favourite part was the huge bale of sticks that was a great visual representation of how many twigs moose eat every day – about 40 to 60 pounds worth!

Nanny’s Hole, Twillingate

Difficulty: Easy/Moderate

Time Needed: 1 to 1.5 hours

Distance: 2.5 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 100 m

This short trail starts at the Long Point Lighthouse near Twillingate. From the viewing platform near the parking lot, you can look down to a rugged and rocky peninsula sticking out into the ocean. If you look carefully, you’ll see tiny hikers walking along an undulating trail – that’s the Nanny’s Hole Trail.

To start the hike, follow the path downhill from the parking area. There are a couple great viewpoints from the top of the bluff, but soon you begin descending on sets of wooden stairs. At the bottom, follow the trail across the grassy meadow to the coast. Then, turn right and hike along the path out to Nanny’s Hole. The trail ends at a great viewpoint on the edge of the headland.

When you are done, retrace your steps back up the stairs to the parking lot. If you hike here, consider donating to the Rockcut Twillingate Trails, which maintains the paths in this area.

After our hike, we went for dinner at Annie’s in Twillingate. They have a great view of the harbour and lots of great seafood on the menu. Try the cod tongues as an appetizer. They are a bit chewy, kind of like calamari, but really tasty.

French Head (Rock Cut Trails), Twillingate

Difficulty: Easy

Time Needed: 1 hour

Distance: 2.5 km loop

Elevation Gain: 100 m

In the last few years, the town of Twillingate has created an incredible trail system on the east side of Twillingate Island called the Rockcut Trails. Please donate to support their work if you are able. I only had time to hike a short part of the network so I chose the quick, but beautiful French Head section.

From the trailhead, you walk a short distance to French Beach, which is so beautiful. From there, the trail loops up and over several small hills out to the end of French Head and then back to the beach.

The views of the coastline are incredible: To the east, you can see Spillers Point with Fogo Island in the far distance. To the west, you can see Carter Head, Burnt Island, and Twillingate Lighthouse, which you can visit at the start of the Nanny’s Hole hike (above). We actually did both Nanny’s Hole and French Beach on the same day since they were both short and easy.

The Rockcut Trails actually include a few backcountry campgrounds, so that’s on my list for my next visit. But if you’re looking for drive-in camping, I recommend Dildo Run Provincial Park. It’s an easy 20-minute drive from Twillingate, has oceanfront campsites and showers… and a hilarious name.

Brimstone Head, Fogo Island

Difficulty: Moderate

Time Needed: 45 minutes to 1 hour

Distance: 2 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 90 m

Fogo Island was one of my favourite places in Newfoundland. The stark landscapes were otherworldly. Thanks to investment from a local girl turned tech millionaire, Fogo Island has a unique social enterprise and arts community. For hikers, one of the benefits is the great hiking trails all over the island.

Brimstone Head provides the best effort-to-reward ratio of all of Fogo’s hikes. It’s a short but steep climb with the help of stairs to the top of Brimstone Head. There is a great view from the top of the town of Fogo.

Brimstone Head is also considered to be one of the four corners of the Earth by the Canadian Flat Earth Society, so don’t fall off since you’ll never be seen again! On the way down, be sure to take the detour onto the “scenic route” to loop around to a viewpoint overlooking Back Cove and the Brimstone Head RV Park. We spent the night in our tent here and were treated to an incredible sunset.

There are lots of other great short hikes on Fogo, and I honestly had trouble picking just one to include in this guide. I also recommend the Joe Batts Arm Trail and Shoal Bay Trails. They both have an artsy surprise!

Best Hikes in Western Newfoundland

Green Gardens, Gros Morne National Park

Difficulty: Moderate

Time Needed: 3.5 to 4.5 hours

Distance: 9 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 350 m

Green Gardens is one of the best hikes in Gros Morne National Park in western Newfoundland. It starts in the open barrens of the Tablelands before descending through the trees to the coastline. As the trail works its way downhill the vegetation changes and becomes more and more lush thanks to the fertile volcanic soil – a real contrast to the desolate rocks of the Tablelands.

The trail ends at a backcountry campground a bluff above Old Man’s Cove. The tops of the cliff have dense meadows of grasses and wildflowers. You can follow a rough staircase downhill to the beach. The normally frigid Atlantic is tempered by a warm current here, so you might even want to swim. (Sticking my feet in was enough for me.)

You can also continue down the beach to a waterfall tucked into a small canyon. Save your energy for the hike back to the trailhead – it’s all uphill.

After your hike, be sure to make the short drive to the village of Trout River to have a delicious cod dinner at the Seaside Restaurant, which has been in the same family since 1981. Time your visit for sunset – it’s spectacular.

Tablelands, Gros Morne National Park

Difficulty: Easy or Challenging

Time Needed: 1 or 5 hours

Distance: 4 or 7.5 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 90 to 530 m

The Tablelands are one of the most interesting parts of Gros Morne National Park. The barren moonscape rocks here is actually part of the Earth’s mantle – the middle layer of the planet below the crust.

There are two ways to do this hike. The first is the easy Tablelands Trail. It’s a gentle 4 km hike on an old road bed that skirts around the base of the mountain. It has great views of the Tablelands and ends at glacier-carved Winter House Brook Canyon.

The other option, (and the one that I did) is an off-trail hike to the top of the Tablelands. This hike follows the main trail for the first 0.7 km then veers uphill and off trail to a viewpoint overlooking Winter House Brook Canyon.

There is no trail or established route so you need to be comfortable with route finding, loose rock, and steep slopes. You can pick your own path, but the rough track on Gaia GPS or AllTrails+ is a good starting point. (You don’t have to do the full loop on there – just go to the top of the canyon, and head back down.)

I did this hike with guides from Wild Gros Morne and they were great at explaining the unique geology. They also pointed out some really cool plants, including carnivorous pitcher plants and sundews. Before the hike, they took us out on a Zodiac tour in Bonne Bay so we could see the Tablelands from the water. Oh, and the best part: the packed lunch included the most delicious lobster roll sandwich I’ve ever had!

Gros Morne Mountain, Gros Morne National Park

Difficulty: Very Challenging

Time Needed: 7 to 9 hours

Distance: 17 km loop

Elevation Gain: 868 m

When I hiked to the summit of Gros Morne Mountain on my first trip to Newfoundland I thought it was the tallest mountain in Newfoundland. But on a more recent trip, I learned that it is actually the second tallest mountain! Gros Morne tops out at 806 m, but The Cabox a few kilometres away is 812 m tall. I’ll have to do that one next time!

Despite being number two, Gros Morne Mountain is a great hike, albeit a long and challenging one. The first half of the trail is a steady climb through the forest to the base of the peak. From there, you head up a steep and rocky gully full of boulders to the summit. The summit has a strangely flat and rocky summit. But it has incredible views of 10 Mile Pond and the ocean. I actually spotted caribou from the top too!

To descend, you follow stairs down the backside of the mountain and then loop back around, passing the backcountry campsite at Ferry Gulch, which is the end of the Long Range Traverse.

There is a seasonal closure each May and June to protect wildlife and prevent erosion. As well, it’s not a great place for dogs due to the fragile ecosystem, the likelihood of stressing wildlife, and the rocky terrain that can cut dog’s paws.

Long Range Traverse, Gros Morne National Park

Difficulty: Very Challenging

Time Needed: 3 to 5 days

Distance: ~35 km one-way

Elevation Gain: 1270 m

The first time I went to Newfoundland we planned our trip specifically to hike the Long Range Traverse. It’s a spectacular multi-day backpacking trip through the Long Range Mountains in Gros Morne National Park.

There is no official trail – instead, you have to use a map and compass or GPS to navigate. The route starts with the tourist boat across Western Brook Pond. From there, you bash your way through a thickly vegetated valley and up a steep glaciated headwall. The next few days see you finding your own route through bogs, around lakes, and across tundra. The traverse ends on the Gros Morne Mountain Trail, which makes a logical add-on to the trip.

My Long Range Traverse trip was spectacular. We had days of gorgeous sun and thick fog. We saw moose, caribou, and a bear. I stepped into a mud puddle that was up over my knees. And I came away with so many fond memories.

I didn’t have time to do the Long Traverse on my most recent trip to Newfoundland, but I know if I go back it will be at the top of my to-do list since it is the most epic backpacking trip in Newfoundland.

Bottle Cove/South Head Lighthouse Trail, Lark Harbour

Difficulty: Easy or Challenging

Time Needed: 30 minutes or 4 to 5 hours

Distance: 1 km or 8 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 30 m or 500m

The Bay of Islands region outside of Corner Brook was an area I hadn’t heard about until my most recent trip to Newfoundland. It’s a gorgeous area with little fishing towns in sheltered coves, windswept headlands, and big views. The trails starting at Bottle Cove were some of my favourites in Western Newfoundland.

From the trailhead, you can hike the short and easy trail to the lookout above Bottle Cove. It has a great view of the rocky headland and sea cave across the cove.

But I suggest continuing onward (and upward) on the steep South Head Lighthouse Trail. At the top, there are incredible views of the islands at the mouth of the Bay of Islands. You can also look down at the location of the former South Head Lighthouse, which must have been a very inhospitable place to live so exposed to the weather.

Keep in mind that this trail is in the Blow Me Down Mountains, and they live up to their name. I was nearly blown off my feet on the top!

Volunteers from Outer Bay of Islands Enhancement Committee have built and maintained several trails in the area including the Bottle Cove and South Head Lighthouse Trails. Please consider making a donation if you hike here.

Be sure to stop at the Saltbox Restaurant in Benoit’s Cove for great seafood on their waterfront patio. The restaurant is the home of Everoutdoor Adventures, a hiking and guiding company, as well as an interpretive centre for the Cabox Aspiring Geopark, a proposed UNESCO Geopark. They have lots of great maps and info boards about the local geology and history.

Man in the Mountain (Humber Valley Trail), Corner Brook

Difficulty: Challenging

Time Needed: 2.5 to 3.5 hours

Distance: 5 km round-trip

Elevation Gain: 360 m

If you’re driving Highway 1 just east of Corner Brook, look up and see if you can spot the face in the rocks, known as Man in the Mountain. If you’re a hardy hiker, you can also hike to the top of the man’s face for a great view of Corner Brook and the Humber Valley.

The Man in the Mountain viewpoint is actually part of the 14.5 km-long Humber Valley Trail, which itself is part of the International Appalachian Trail Newfoundland and Labrador. So you can just do the short hike up to the Man in the Mountain viewpoint… or you can continue for days.

I did a short loop using the steep Bear Head Trail and part of the Humber Valley Trail to visit Arne’s Lookout with Glen from Everoutdoor Adventures. You can also continue to the top of Man in the Mountain (a face in the rocks you can see from the Highway below).

Newfoundland Hiking Tips

National Park Entry Fees

You need to pay park entry fees to hike in Terra Nova and Gros Morne National Parks. All other hikes in Newfoundland are free. Here’s the fee breakdown for the National Parks:

Terra Nova National Park: $6.50/adult/day

Gros Morne National Park: $11/adult day

Parks Canada Discovery Pass: $75.25/adult or $151.25 for a group of up to 7 people in the same car. Valid for one year. This is the best deal if you plan to spend more than a few days in the parks.

Weather in Newfoundland

Newfoundland has a temperate marine climate which means it is never too hot but is often wet and chilly. The best time of year to hike in Newfoundland is between mid-June and early October when the weather is warmest and there is less rain. The snow in the mountains will all be melted by then too.

I think the best time to hike is in the fall. I spent 10 days hiking in Gros Morne and Western Newfoundland in fall. I was treated to mostly sunny weather and gorgeous fall colours.

Wet weather is a reality in Newfoundland. Read my tips for hiking in the rain to get ready.

Watch the forecast carefully when you are in Newfoundland. Even if it is calling for rain, it often will only rain for a few hours out of the day, leaving the rest of the day open for dry hiking!

Cell Phone Service in Newfoundland

Cell phone service can be spotty or non-existent in parts of Newfoundland. You’ll probably have at least some signal near towns, but away from towns, you often won’t have any service. Look up all the info you will need for your hike while you still have service. I like the use the Gaia GPS app or AllTrails+ to download offline maps of the trails before I go.

Also, keep in mind that without cell service you won’t be able to call for help in an emergency. We brought our Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite messenger as a just-in-case backup.

What to Bring Hiking in Newfoundland

Just like on any hike anywhere in the world, you need to be prepared. Don’t forget the 10 Essentials, a list of key items you should bring on every hike.

You’ll also want moisture-wicking and quick-drying synthetic hiking clothes. Skip the cotton – it doesn’t dry and will make you cold and uncomfortable.

Bring a good rain jacket. On this trip, I wore my MEC Flashcloud, but it is discontinued. I also love my Mountain Hardwear Minimizer because it is super light and compact but still breathable. For a budget option, I recommend the Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket.

Make sure that your jacket has a fresh waterproof treatment to stop it from wetting out. (Read my guide to why rain jackets wet out for more info.)

On most hikes in Newfoundland I usually also pack my rain pants, just in case. I’ve gotten caught out in unexpected rain a few times and was glad I had them. I use the basic MEC Hydrofoil Stretch pants and they’ve held up well, including on my incredibly wet Skerwink Trail hike.

You’ll also want waterproof footwear because even if it isn’t raining, a lot of the trails have lots of mud and deep puddles. I wore my Salomon XA Pro Goretex Trail runners and they were great – lightweight, lots of traction, and waterproof.

If your backpack came with a rain cover, that’s great. But if not, you can buy one separately. I like the MEC silicone rain cover since it packs down so small. Or use a dry bag to protect gear inside your pack. I use Sea to Summit Lightweight dry bags.

It can also be chilly in Newfoundland so a fleece or synthetic insulated jacket is a great idea. Skip down jackets since they don’t provide any warmth when wet. I brought my Arc’teryx Proton insulated jacket and Outdoor Research Trail Mix Fleece and wore them both a lot.

Leave No Trace

Learn the Leave No Trace principles before you hike in Newfoundland. This is a sensitive ecosystem with a short growing season. Pack out all your trash. Use toilets at trailheads or villages before you hike. If you have to go on the trail, dig a cat hole or bring a WAG bag to pack our your poop.

Guided Hikes

If you’d rather have a local show you around, there are lots of guided hiking tour operators in Newfoundland. Going with a guide can be a great way to learn more about the local plants, animals, geology, and history. Guides can often show you off-the-beaten path hikes you wouldn’t otherwise have heard about – that’s how I heard about the South Head Lighthouse Trail.

In Western Newfoundland, I recommend Gros Morne Adventures, Tour Gros Morne, Wild Gros Morne, and EverOutdoor Adventures. I did a hike with each of these companies thanks to Go Western Newfoundland.

In Eastern Newfoundland, I’ve heard good things about Great Canadian Trails guided trips on the East Coast Trail. You can find more regional tour operators through Newfoundland and Labrador Tourism.

Give Back to Trailhead Communities

Many hikes in Newfoundland are located in small towns and villages that depend on tourism for their livelihood and have spent lots of money and time on building trails to attract tourists. Often hikers visit a community, hike a free trail, and then leave.

Where possible, be sure to give back to trailhead communities by shopping at local stores, eating at local restaurants, and staying at local hotels or campgrounds. You can also make donations to local trail maintenance groups.

Indigenous Context

Newfoundland is the traditional territory of the Beothuk and Mi’kma’ki. It is important to be respectful of this land.

Final Thoughts

So that’s my big list of the best hikes in Newfoundland. I’m already dreaming of going back to Newfoundland someday to hike more! Do you have questions about Newfoundland? Ask me in the comments.

READ NEXT:

• 20 Incredible Things to Do in Newfoundland
• Things to Do in Gros Morne National Park
• 18 Best Things to Do in St. John’s, Newfoundland
• 12 Things To Do in Trinity, Newfoundland
• 10 Things To Do in Bonavista, Newfoundland
• 10 Things To Do in Twillingate, Newfoundland
• Things to do on Fogo Island, Newfoundland
• Things to Do in Corner Brook, Newfoundland
• The 10 Essentials: Things You Should Bring on Every Hike
• 40+ Tips for Hiking in the Rain
• Why Do Rain Jackets Wet Out?

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