Terra Nova National Park

A stunning coastal national park featuring forested hills meeting pristine ocean coves and inlets. It offers excellent hiking, camping, kayaking, and opportunities to spot whales and seals in their natural habitat.

Things to do

• Gros Morne Trail Hike — A moderate 5 km coastal trail offering panoramic views of Newman Sound and the opportunity to spot whales and seals from elevated vantage points.
• Kayaking Newman Sound — Paddle through pristine coastal inlets and coves where you can encounter marine wildlife including humpback whales, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
• Camping at Malady Head — Stay overnight at this scenic oceanfront campground surrounded by boreal forest, ideal for sunset viewing and early morning wildlife observation.
• Dunphy's Pond Loop — An easy 2 km walking trail through forested terrain that leads to a tranquil freshwater pond, perfect for photography and birdwatching.
• Whale and Seabird Watching — Summer months offer excellent opportunities to view humpback whales, minke whales, and colonies of seabirds from designated viewing areas along the coast.
• East Blomidon Trail — A scenic 5 km coastal hike featuring dramatic cliff views, forested sections, and access to secluded beaches along the park's eastern shore.

Food to try

• Fish and Chips — Fresh Atlantic cod or halibut battered and deep-fried, served with traditional vinegar and served at park lodges and nearby coastal towns as a Newfoundland staple.
• Jiggs Dinner — A traditional Newfoundland boiled dinner featuring salt beef, potatoes, carrots, turnips, and peas pudding, commonly found at local restaurants near the park.
• Toutons — Pan-fried bread dough pockets typically served with molasses and butter, a hearty local breakfast or snack available at park cafes and nearby villages.
• Seal Meat Dishes — Traditional Newfoundland preparations of seal meat, representing indigenous and historic food practices, available at select regional restaurants.
• Berry Desserts — Local wild berry treats including partridgeberry pie and cloudberry jam reflecting the region's abundant native berries, often served at park facilities.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Marine Wildlife Distance — Always maintain a 100-meter distance from whales and seals; observe quietly and never approach or disturb animals, as this is both a legal requirement and essential conservation practice.
• Weather Changes Rapidly — Coastal conditions can shift dramatically within hours, so always carry waterproof gear and check forecasts frequently even for short activities.
• Indigenous Heritage Recognition — The park lies on traditional Beothuk and Mi'kmaq territories; respectfully acknowledge this heritage and learn about the region's Indigenous history during your visit.
• Leave No Trace Principles — Pack out all waste, stay on marked trails, and avoid removing plants or wildlife to preserve the pristine environment that makes Terra Nova special for future visitors.