Terra Nova National Park
Terra Nova National Park protects coastal boreal forest, rocky headlands, and sheltered sea inlets along Bonavista Bay on the northeast coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. Canada’s most easterly national park, Terra Nova features glacier-smoothed hills, peatlands, and intricate fjord-like sounds—ideal for hiking, paddling, and marine wildlife viewing.
| Location | Northeast Newfoundland on Bonavista Bay (between Clarenville and Gander) |
|---|---|
| Province | Newfoundland and Labrador |
| Established | 1957 |
| Area | ~400 km² |
| Notable features | Newman Sound and Clode Sound; coastal barrens and tuckamore; peat bogs and ponds; rocky coves and headlands |
| Nearby communities | Eastport–Happy Adventure, Glovertown, Traytown, Charlottetown (NL), Port Blandford |
Overview
Terra Nova encompasses rugged Atlantic shoreline and inland plateaus shaped by ice and sea. The cold Labrador Current influences local weather and marine life, bringing fog at times and supporting rich coastal ecosystems. Visitors explore quiet coves by kayak, walk coastal barrens and forest trails, and camp beneath dark skies.
Landscapes and ecosystems
- Coastal barrens and headlands: Wind-exposed granite and coastal heath with low shrubs and wildflowers; sweeping views over Bonavista Bay.
- Boreal forest and wetlands: Black spruce, balsam fir, birch, and maple with mossy understories; peatlands, ponds, and beaver wetlands are common.
- Inlets and sounds: Newman Sound and Clode Sound form a maze of protected waters and islands that shelter seabirds and marine life.
Wildlife may include moose, black bear, red fox, snowshoe hare, river otter, loons and shorebirds; offshore, look for whales and porpoises in season. Capelin rolling and seabird activity can be seen along beaches at the right time of year.
Things to do
- Hiking & viewpoints: Short to moderate trails to coastal lookouts and forest ponds (e.g., Malady Head, Ochre Hill, Sandy Pond boardwalks/day-use).
- Paddling: Kayak or canoe the sheltered arms of Newman Sound or Clode Sound; backcountry paddle-in campsites are available with permits.
- Camping: Frontcountry campgrounds (e.g., Newman Sound; Malady Head) with serviced/unserviced sites; oTENTik or roofed options in season.
- Winter activities: Snowshoeing and winter walking when conditions permit (check bulletins).
- Interpretive programs: Visitor centre exhibits, guided walks, evening programs, and seasonal events.
Access and visitor services
The Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) runs through the park with signed access roads to day-use areas, campgrounds, and the visitor centre. Services, groceries, outfitters, and accommodations are available in nearby Eastport–Happy Adventure, Glovertown, and other communities. Reservations are recommended for peak summer periods.
Safety and low-impact travel
Coastal weather can change quickly—fog, wind, and rain are common. Tides, swell, and cold water require caution for paddlers; wear PFDs and dress for immersion. Trails can be wet and rooted; carry layers, maps, and essentials. Keep food secure, give wildlife space, and follow fire bans and Leave No Trace practices.
See also
- National parks of Canada • Travel in Canada • Geography of Canada
- Gros Morne National Park • Cape Breton Highlands National Park • Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site
External links (official)
- Parks Canada — Terra Nova National Park: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/nl/terranova
- Parks Canada — Reservations (camping/backcountry/day use): https://reservation.pc.gc.ca
- Parks Canada — Important bulletins (closures, fire bans, wildlife): https://parks.canada.ca/amnc-nmca/imp