Facts About Canada

Akami–uapishkᵁ–KakKasuak–Mealy Mountains

Akami–uapishkᵁ–KakKasuak–Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve protects one of Atlantic Canada’s largest roadless wilderness areas in southeastern Labrador. The park reserve spans tundra-topped mountains, vast boreal forests, wild rivers, long sand beaches, and rich coastal environments facing Lake Melville and the Labrador Sea. It is cooperatively managed with Indigenous partners, reflecting longstanding Innu and Inuit relationships with the land and waters.

At a glance — Mealy Mountains (NPR)
Location Southeastern Labrador, south of Lake Melville; interior ranges to the Atlantic coast
Province Newfoundland and Labrador
Place type National Park Reserve (recognizes ongoing Indigenous rights/agreements)
Established 2015
Area ≈ 10,700 km²
Co-management Cooperative management with Indigenous partners (Innu Nation, Nunatsiavut Government, NunatuKavut Community Council)
Notable features Mealy Mountains and alpine barrens; boreal forest and peatlands; wild rivers (incl. Eagle River watershed); coastal dunes and long beaches; wildlife including caribou
Nearby hubs Happy Valley–Goose Bay, North West River, Rigolet, Cartwright

Name and cultural context

The park reserve’s Innu-aimun and Inuttitut names—Akami–uapishkᵁ and KakKasuak—reflect deep Indigenous connections to the mountains (“white mountains across” and “mountain range,” commonly translated). As a national park reserve, it is managed like a national park while honouring existing and ongoing Indigenous rights and agreements. Traditional activities and travel continue in accordance with land claims and cooperative management decisions.

Landscapes and ecosystems

  • Mountains and alpine barrens: Rounded summits and plateaus of the Mealy Mountains support tundra vegetation, patterned ground, and sweeping views to Lake Melville and the Atlantic.
  • Boreal forest and wetlands: Black spruce, balsam fir, birch, and extensive peatlands host songbirds, waterfowl, and mammals.
  • Rivers and lakes: Large, clear rivers and headwater lakes (including parts of the Eagle River system) shape deep valleys and provide habitat for wild salmon and trout.
  • Coast and dunes: On the Atlantic side, long sand beaches and dune complexes back onto lagoons and coastal barrens.

Wildlife includes woodland caribou (regional herds), black bear, wolf, marten, fox, beaver, and raptors; marine mammals and seabirds are seen along the coast and in Lake Melville.

Things to do

  • Backcountry hiking and camping: Multi-day routes across plateaus and valleys; no formal frontcountry campgrounds—true wilderness travel.
  • Paddling: Expert-level river trips and lake crossings; guided expeditions operate seasonally on select routes. Check water levels, portages, and regulations.
  • Coastal travel: Boat-supported trips to dune/beach systems in suitable weather; tides, swell, and cold water require experience and local knowledge.
  • Winter travel: Snowmobile access may be permitted on designated/approved routes; conditions and rules vary—confirm before travel.

Access and season

There are no public roads into the park’s core. Most visitors stage from Happy Valley–Goose Bay or nearby communities and then:

  • charter a floatplane into interior lakes/plateaus, or
  • use boat access from Lake Melville or coastal communities when conditions allow.

The primary visitor season is short (roughly July–September). Expect cool, wet, and windy conditions at any time; spring melt and autumn storms affect travel windows.

Safety and low-impact travel

  • Remoteness: No cell coverage; carry satellite communications, maps, and emergency supplies. Self-reliance and navigation skills are essential.
  • Wildlife: This is bear country; store food properly and give animals space. Be mindful of caribou and sensitive habitats.
  • Rivers & cold water: Swift currents, cold temperatures, and variable levels demand experience and proper gear.
  • Respect and permits: Backcountry registration/orientation may be required; follow cooperative management guidance, closures, and Indigenous protocols. Practice Leave No Trace.

See also

External links (official)

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