The Best of Northern Newfoundland by Bike: From Gros Morne to L’Anse aux Meadows

Day 1: Welcome to Gros Morne National Park
Long ride option: up to 76 km; Short ride option: 41 km
Arrive in Deer Lake and begin your adventure by exploring the area on two wheels. Cycle past the Newfoundland insectarium and the Wiltondale Pioneer Village before stopping for lunch near the entrance to Gros Morne National Park. Spend the afternoon riding through the hilly terrain, culminating in a thrilling approach to Bonne Bay, and finish your day in the quaint fishing village of Norris Point. Check in at either the Neddie’s Harbour Inn or Sugar Hill Inn before enjoying dinner. (L,D)

Accomodation: Neddie’s Harbour Inn or Sugar Hill Inn

Day 2: Exploring the Tablelands
Long ride/hike option: up to 111 km; Short ride/hike option: 38 km
Start the day with a ferry ride to Woody Point before cycling to Trout River for lunch, overlooking the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Along the way, visit the Discovery Centre and embark on a one-hour hike up Partridgeberry Hill along the Lookout Trail. After taking in panoramic views (some of the best in the park), continue hiking along the coast on the Green Gardens trail. End the day by taking a water taxi across Bonne Bay or a van transfer back to Norris Point. (B,L,D)

Accomodation: Neddie’s Harbour Inn or Sugar Hill Inn

Day 3: Summiting Gros Morne Mountain
Hiking: 14 km (8 hrs) to an elevation of 2645ft
Embark on a challenging eight-hour hike to the top of Gros Morne Mountain, where caribou sightings are not uncommon. On a clear day, the views from the summit are unparalleled and offer a stunning vista of Ten-Mile Pond, the Long Range Mountains, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Return to your inn to freshen up before venturing out to explore Rocky Harbour’s dining options. The pretty community is renowned for its gorgeous sunsets. (B,L)

Accomodation: Neddie’s Harbour Inn or Sugar Hill Inn

Day 4: Bike to Western Brook Pond
Long cycling option: 90 km; Short cycling option: 58km
Get ready for an adventure-packed day as you embark on a morning bike ride heading north through Gros Morne National Park. The ride takes you to Western Brook Pond, where you’ll take a fascinating afternoon boat tour up the fjord. Despite the name, the Western Brook Pond is a large freshwater lake that was formed by glaciers during the last Ice Age. As you glide through the still waters, take in the breathtaking views of the steep cliffs and cascading waterfalls that surround you. Keep your camera handy to capture the rugged beauty of this stunning natural wonder.

After the boat tour, hop back on your bicycle and ride to Cow Head. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the coastline on a hike that offers a unique glimpse into the region’s geological history. Along the way, you’ll discover an abundance of fossils and a record of marine life that spans through the ages. As the day draws to a close, head back to your village for an evening filled with the colourful characters that Newfoundland is known for. Enjoy a delicious dinner and relax in the warm hospitality of your accommodation.

Accommodation: Entente Cordiale, Portland Creek or Sunrise Cottages, Parsons Pond (location determined by the length of cycling)

Day 5: The long ride north.
Cycling: Up to 283 km (This ride is vehicle assisted)
Today, get ready for a long ride north as you cycle up to 283 km. Fortunately, the prevailing tailwind and the wide flat road should make the journey more manageable. For most cyclists, the ride is vehicle assisted, meaning you’ll have the option to accept a boost or two from the van. However, for those who are determined to complete the entire ride, the journey promises to be an unforgettable adventure.
As the day comes to an end, enjoy a delicious meal of fresh local cuisine and retire to your lodge. Nestled in a fabulous wilderness setting near the L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, your accommodation is a scenic retreat that’s well out of the way. Be prepared to enjoy comfort in the northern wilderness!

Accommodation: Valhalla Lodge, L’Anse aux Meadows, or Burnt Cape Cabins, Raleigh

Day 6: L’Anse aux Meadows, Zodiac boat trip and Quirpon Island
Cycling: 10km
Rise early this morning to visit the profoundly stirring site of L’Anse aux Meadows, where Vikings landed more than five centuries before Columbus. Believed to be Leif Eriksson’s Vinland of the Norse sagas, this historic site offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Viking explorers who braved the North Atlantic to reach the shores of North America.
After lunch, set off on a 90-minute boat trip that takes you through iceberg alley to Quirpon Island Lighthouse. Along the way, learn about the shipwrecks, history, and natural attractions of the area, often sighting whales and icebergs. Your destination is a private island with fantastic coastal trails, wide views, and an exceptional lighthouse lodge. You may even find ruins of unexcavated Viking sod houses.

Overall, this is a magical experience that’s often considered the highlight of the trip. Don’t miss the chance to explore the rugged beauty of this remote corner of the world.

Accommodation: Quirpon Island Lighthouse, Quirpon

Day 7: Farewell
It’s time to say goodbye to the stunning landscape and warm hospitality of Newfoundland. After breakfast, board your boat to return to the mainland for a 5-hour transfer back to Deer Lake.