2020 will be the summer of the Newfoundland staycation. If you’re the type who’s normally chasing adrenaline rushes around the globe, this year you’re going to want to look a little closer to home. Thankfully, there are more than a few options in Newfoundland to get outdoors and get your blood pumping, whether you prefer your adventures in the air, on the ground, or in the sea.
With 29,000 kilometres of coastline, including an abundance of breathtaking fjords, bays, guts, and inlets – not to mention the inland rivers, lakes, and ponds – Newfoundland and Labrador is a great spot for adventuring on the water. And with close to 300 hiking and walking trails, including historic footpaths between abandoned fishing communities, there’s no shortage of adventure on land. Along the way, if the timing is right, you’ll see seabirds, whales, and icebergs. And keep an eye out for moose and boreal songbirds as you connect with the unspoiled wilderness.
We’ve rounded up ten outdoor adventures that you need to have in Newfoundland this summer so that you have the greatest staycation of anyone who’s ever staycationed. Which is top of your bucket list?
There’s no need to travel to the jungles of Costa Rica in order to zipline. You can have this aerial adventure right in your own backyard. Visit North Atlantic Zipline and soar along the rugged shore and view the historic fishing village of Petty Harbour from 10 zip lines ranging from 300 to 2,200 feet in length. Have a snack at their zip stop gazebo or even spend a night in their zipline accessible trapper’s cabin and check the eastern most zipline in North America off your bucket list.
Think the west coast is the best coast? Get your zipline thrills at Marble Zip Tours and marvel at the beauty of the Humber Valley. It’s a cross between parachuting and flying, and we promise you an adrenaline rush that can only be felt, not described. You’ll fly across nine zip lines that are up to 2000 feet long and 285 feet high, at speeds reaching 30 kilometers an hour.
Like your adrenaline rush to be a little more stationary? Try your hand at the Spider Challenge located at the base of Marble Mountain. It’s a three-storey high ropes course that will test your balance, agility, and nerves. The Spider Challenge dares you to rise above your limits as you advance through each fun and daring obstacle. Completing it will make you feel like a real superhero.
Moving into the water portion of your summer staycation adventure, you won’t even miss the rafting in Slovenia when you can take a thrilling ride down the Exploits River. The Badger Chute Rafting Adventure is a family-friendly white water rafting adventure that features some exciting rapids while still being appropriate for those 5yrs+. You don’t even need to know how to swim. Relax during the calm sections, take in the exhilarating rapids, and take a dip off the side of the raft for some fun in the river. Bonus: they feed you lunch and a bbq dinner after you’ve gotten wet and wild on the river.
Want to get on the water but prefer to stay dry? Trinity Eco-Tours will put you in a warm, dry survival suit and then whisk you away in a zodiac to spot icebergs, whales, and wildlife in Trinity Bay. Skipper Bob is a real pro and ensures that everyone has an entertaining and educational trip. If you’re lucky you might even get to spot Finnegan the Humpback. He and his friends love to put on a show every summer.
Zodiac just not close enough? Get in the water and make some new friends! Ocean Quest Adventures will suit you up and drop you in the water so that animals can swim with you. This adventure will take you into the water and allow you to swim alongside the many majestic creatures that grace Newfoundland with their presence throughout the summer months. Keep in mind that these are zero impact tours so it’s always the whale’s choice to swim with you.
For those not afraid of getting a little dirty…this introduction to the Corner Brook Caves by Cycle Solutions is an excellent way to experience the “world down under”, with world class caving systems that have been featured on the Discovery Channel. Walk along a subterranean stream and learn about the forces and conditions that created the intricate system of natural cathedrals.
Like your adventures on two wheels? Head out to the west coast and explore by road, trail, town to town or backcountry. Chose from half, full, and multi-day cycling tours from Cycle Solutions. You’ll especially want to explore the Ginger Route — a locally designed singletrack trail that ducks and weaves gently through dense forest, right in the heart of Corner Brook, finishing off with some sweet descents.
Already conquered the air and sea? Then it’s time for a land adventure. No need for long flight to New Zealand for trekking when we have world class trails right here. The Spout is one of the more challenging and rewarding hikes on the East Coast Trail. This long, hilly trail is for experienced and prepared hikers only. The Spout, a wave-powered geyser, is at the center of this path and can be seen from as far away as Long Point. The trail features dramatic sea cliffs, sea stacks, historic lighthouse and 5 waterfalls. Bald eagles often nest on atop sea stacks, so don’t forget your camera.
Want to walk on Mars? Hiking the Tablelands Trail in Gros Morne National Park is as close as you’ll get while keeping your feet on planet Earth. In fact, what you’ll be walking on is the Earth’s mantle – the dense layer of rock that is normally located under the crust. This is one of the few places on Earth where you can see this. The main hiking trail follows an old roadbed as it skirts the base of the mountain. You will see unusual plants and rocks as you enjoy broad panoramic views. The trail ends in the glacially carved Winter House Brook Canyon. Pretty cool if you ask us.
Book Your Trip to Newfoundland & Labrador
Book Your Flight
Find a cheap flight by using Expedia. It’s one of my favourite search engines because it allows you to search for and compare flights from multiple airlines.
Book Your Accommodations
You can book your hotel with Booking.com as they have the most comprehensive inventory so they are best for booking a hotel. If you want to stay in a vacation rental or cottage in Newfoundland & Labrador, use VRBO to find the perfect place for the whole family.
Book Your Car Rental
Newfoundland & Labrador is mainly rural and it’s best to have a vehicle at your disposal. Be sure to book your car rental with Discover Cars early because they often sell out in summer.
Book Your Travel Insurance
While Newfoundland is generally a safe province, you never know when something could happen. Be prepared with travel insurance from SafetyWing.
