Cross Canada Road Trip: Newfoundland Routes
- Lyn (aka Jazz)
- Oct 13
- 12 min read
Ten blog posts. Thousands of kilometres logged. We’ve driven from the misty, mountainous shores of the Pacific (a lifetime ago, check out Road Trip Routes Through BC) across the vast Canadian Prairies, through bustling Ontario and Quebec, and finally dipped into the Maritimes. But this, friends, is the grand finale of the eastward journey of my solo cross-Canada road trip: Newfoundland.
Boarding the Marine Atlantic ferry from Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques (link to Nova Scotia Road Trip Routes) wasn't just another stop on my itinerary; it felt like crossing a final frontier. It marked the official eastern point of my cross-Canada solo road trip, but on this iconic, rugged island, the road trip adventure truly begins anew.
Newfoundland is a province that demands slow travel and deep exploration. It’s too vast and too rich in culture to simply pass through. That's why, before catching the ferry back from Argentia, I broke down my exploration into two distinct routes: the essential Trans-Canada Highway Route and the historic deep dive of the Avalon Peninsula Road Trip. This guide is your companion to planning your own Newfoundland road trip routes, whether you have a week or a month (or maybe even more!) to explore.
Table of Contents
Newfoundland and Labrador: A Primer for Travellers
Before I detail the routes, let's understand the land we're exploring. Newfoundland and Labrador is Canada's most easterly and geographically unique province. The island of Newfoundland is dominated by rugged landscapes, deep fjords, and a coastline famous for its dramatic beauty and unpredictable weather—always be prepared for that beautiful, persistent fog and be ready for 'four seasons in one day'.
The history here is layered like the geology itself. For millennia, the land has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Mi'kmaq, Innu, Inuit, and the now extinct Beothuk people. It holds the oldest known site of European contact in North America at L'Anse aux Meadows (Viking settlement, c. 1000 CE). Later, it became a major hub for English and French fishers, leading to early settlements like Ferryland (which I highly recommend seeing—link to St. John’s Day Trip). As a proud, distinct entity, Newfoundland only joined the Canadian Confederation in 1949.
Newfoundlander culture is renowned globally for its unparalleled warmth, dark humour, and strong musical traditions. Life often revolves around the small coastal outports—communities tucked into coves, each with its own character and dialect. While the economy has diversified from the legendary cod fishery into offshore oil and booming tourism, the deep-seated maritime heritage remains the true heart of the province. You’ll certainly want to sample the incredibly fresh seafood and local delicacies (link to A Guide to Eating Your Way Around Canada’s Eastern Provinces).
Essential Road Trip Tips for Newfoundland
Getting There: The Marine Atlantic Ferries (Deciding Your Entry Point)
North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Port aux Basques, NL (PAB): This is the Short Dash route, offering the shortest crossing time at approximately 7 hours. It runs year-round, daily, with both day and overnight sailings, making it the cheapest and most frequent option. However, travellers must factor in the significant trade-off: arriving in Port aux Basques on the far west coast requires the full 9.5 hour drive across the island via the TransCanada Highway to reach St. John's.
North Sydney, Nova Scotia to Argentia, NL (ARG): Known as the Long Haul, this option takes approximately 16−17 hours and is typically an overnight trip. It is a seasonal route, running from mid-June to late September, about three times per week. The key advantage is docking in Argentia on the eastern Avalon Peninsula, placing you only 90 minutes from St. John's, thereby saving a long day of driving. The main disadvantages are the higher cost, the limited schedule, and the much longer crossing time, which makes reserving a private cabin highly recommended for comfort.
Safety, Logistics, and Seasonal Travel Tips
Moose Safety: Critical Tip—Moose are abundant and a major hazard. Drive with extreme caution at dawn/dusk, especially on the TCH. They are large, dark, and often stand right in the road!
Fuel & Services: Services can be sparse between major towns. Fill up when you can. (Review my general summer road trip tips here - link to My Road Trip Tips for Summer Road Trips).
Cell Service: Be prepared for dead zones, especially on coastal routes and the TCH through central Newfoundland. Download offline maps beforehand—it's essential for navigation.
Solo Female Travel Note: NL communities are known for being welcoming and safe, but standard solo travel precautions still apply (link to Tips for a Solo Female Road Trip).
Seasonal Wonders: Best viewing times for majestic icebergs (May-July) and whales (June-August). Plan your trip around these dates if you can!
Seasonal Travel Guide: The best time to visit Newfoundland depends entirely on your goals:
Summer (July–Aug): This is peak season with the warmest weather, long days, and all attractions/campgrounds/ferries are operating. However, that also means peak crowds, the highest prices, and the need to book far in advance.
Fall (Sept–Oct): Eastern Canada excels in the fall with stunning autumn colours, ideal hiking weather, and fewer travellers than summer. On the other hand, the (shorter) Argentia ferry service stops, and some of the remote amenities begin to close. The autumn weather becomes unpredictable.
Spring (May–June): One of the prime Spring attractions is Iceberg Alley viewing, where icebergs float past close to the coast. Spring also brings the return of puffins and whales, as well as lower costs. As Newfoundland begins to shake off the winter, the weather is often chilly and foggy. Some of the remote roads/trails may still be closed, and the Argentia ferry is not yet running.
Winter (Nov–Apr): Winter brings the lowest prices, and unique winter activities (like snowmobiling), but harsh weather means that many tourist services, restaurants, and remote accommodations are completely closed.
Route 1: The Trans-Canada Highway
After disembarking the ferry in Port aux Basques, you'll need to follow the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), which is the artery of the island, and this route is for the traveller who needs to cover ground efficiently or wants a reliable path before branching off onto the more winding coastal roads.
This is the fastest driving route to get from the island’s west coast to the capital in St. John’s, but don't assume it lacks incredible scenery—it cuts right through the heart of Newfoundland, offering up massive tracts of wilderness and providing access to major sites like Gros Morne and Terra Nova National Park. If you’re short on time but long on ambition, this is your primary tool. The 900 km route will take approximately 9.5 hours to complete, so plan for a minimum of 2 days to stop safely and enjoy the drive.
Port aux Basques
The official start/end of the Newfoundland leg of the Trans-Canada Highway and the ferry gateway. Don't rush out of town, though! Take a moment to visit the Channel Head Lighthouse for panoramic ocean views and to officially mark the beginning of your Newfoundland journey. This town is also a great place to stock up on groceries and supplies before hitting the open road.
Corner Brook & Pasadena
These neighbouring hubs sit nestled in the beautiful Humber Valley region. Corner Brook is the largest city on the west coast and a good spot to grab lunch or find accommodation. If you’re into nature-based activities, head slightly north to Pasadena, which is known for its excellent hiking trails and access to the picturesque Humber River. In winter, Marble Mountain is a major draw for skiing, but in summer, the surrounding area offers challenging hikes.
Grand Falls-Windsor
Located in the Exploits Valley, this community offers a glimpse into Newfoundland’s industrial and natural history. It was founded on the paper mill industry and is famous for the Exploits River, one of the best Atlantic Salmon rivers in North America. Stop at the Salmonid Interpretation Centre to learn about the lifecycle of the Atlantic Salmon—if the timing is right (mid-summer), you might see them leaping up the fish ladder! This is a reliable central refuelling and rest point.
Gander
This town holds a special place in aviation history. Home to a historically significant international airport, Gander served as a crucial refuelling stop for transatlantic flights and played a vital role during WWII. Visit the North Atlantic Aviation Museum to dive into this rich past.
More recently, Gander became world-famous for the incredible hospitality shown to thousands of stranded passengers after the 9/11 attacks, a story immortalized in the musical Come From Away, which plays at the theatre throughout the summer.
Terra Nova National Park
A must-do detour just off the highway. This park is a beautiful example of Newfoundland's coastal wilderness. I highly recommend hiking the Malady Head Trail for stunning views over Newman Sound, or renting a kayak to explore the sheltered fjords. It’s the perfect place to pause for a few hours of coastal exploration, or take a couple of days to camp, and soak up the boreal forest and marine ecosystems.
Clarenville
A key service centre and junction town. Clarenville marks the last major centre before the final leg to St. John’s. More importantly for road trippers, it is the crucial turning-off point for the Discovery Trail, which leads to the spectacular Bonavista Peninsula—a must-add detour for your Next Trip list, especially if you want to see puffins and the historic town of Bonavista.
Dildo
This charming, quirky coastal town is a popular stop simply for the sign alone! But it offers more than just a funny photo op. The town's atmosphere is welcoming, and the Dildo Brewing Co. & Museum is a great place to grab a flight of local beer and enjoy the harbour view.
St. John's
The eastern terminus of the TransCanada Highway and Newfoundland's colourful capital city. St. John's is one of the oldest cities in North America, a vibrant blend of maritime history and modern culture. The downtown core is famous for its narrow, winding streets and the iconic "Jellybean Row"—a collection of brightly painted row houses perfect for photography. The harbour is always buzzing with activity, and after dark, George Street transforms into a pedestrian-only entertainment district, boasting the most pubs and bars per square foot in North America.
For history buffs and view seekers, a trip to Signal Hill National Historic Site is mandatory. Not only does it offer panoramic views of the city, the Narrows, and the vast Atlantic Ocean (perfect for iceberg spotting in the spring), but it’s also the spot where Guglielmo Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901. Don't miss Cabot Tower at the summit. Afterward, explore the province's culture and history further at The Rooms, an impressive structure that houses the Provincial Museum, Art Gallery, and Archives.
Beyond the historical sites, the city offers easy access to dramatic nature. You can wander down to Quidi Vidi Village, a quaint, historic fishing community tucked away from the main harbour, now famous for its microbrewery. St. John's is also a major starting point for sections of the East Coast Trail, offering rugged coastal hiking for those who want one last dose of nature before hitting the road home.
For a more detailed look at the city, check out my post Things to do in St. John's, Newfoundland.
Route 2: The Avalon Explorations
After the long drive, I wanted to truly dive into the distinct culture of the Avalon Peninsula. This route branches off the main highway to take you through the historic, windswept fingers of land south of St. John's, culminating at the Argentia ferry terminal. To explore the Peninsula, following the Irish Loop will require 6-8 hours of driving time. Travellers will want to plan at least 2-3 days for this section.
Cupids and Brigus
Cupids is the site of the Cupids Cove Plantation Provincial Historic Site, marking the first thriving English colony in Canada. It was established in 1610 and is a foundational piece of settler history.
Nearby Brigus is a beautiful, traditional outport famous for its historic architecture, narrow lanes, and the home of the W.R. Stirling National Historic Site. If you're visiting in August, keep an eye out for the annual Blueberry Festival.
Cape Spear Lighthouse National Park
This is the most easterly point in all of North America. Go early to catch the sunrise—you’ll be the first person on the continent to see it! The iconic Cape Spear Lighthouse is the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland, operational since 1836. Just below the hill, you can explore the remnants of a dramatic WWII coastal defence battery. This is an excellent spot for watching whales and icebergs from the cliff tops.
Petty Harbour
A classic, picturesque working fishing village nestled in a steep, rocky fjord. Take time to walk the winding roads, watch the fishing boats come and go, and grab some incredibly fresh seafood at a local spot like Chafe's Landing.
The Irish Loop Drive
The name says it all. This scenic coastal highway (Route 10) takes you through a string of beautiful, remote outports rich in Irish heritage. Expect winding roads, dramatic ocean vistas, and a chance to truly experience the silence of the Avalon wilderness. My article The Irish Loop: River of Boats looks at one of the unique scenes to be discovered along the route.
Witless Bay
This area is famous for the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve—it's the absolute best place to take a boat tour to see millions of seabirds, especially the Atlantic Puffin, as well as humpback whales. This is a vital wildlife viewing stop on the St. John’s Day Trip I previously wrote about.
Ferryland
History, food, and culture come together here. You absolutely must visit the Colony of Avalon, a 17th-century English settlement that is now an active archaeological dig site. The main attraction for many is the iconic Lighthouse Picnics at the Ferryland Lighthouse, offering gourmet lunches with breathtaking views (but you should book way in advance!).
Mistaken Point Ecological Reserve
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is a true geological highlight. This remote, windswept coastline features some of the world's oldest and most unique fossils. Access is only permitted via a guided tour, and tours must be booked well in advance to protect the fragile site.
Argentia
The terminus of the route. This is where you catch the longer, seasonal Marine Atlantic ferry back to North Sydney, Nova Scotia. Historically, Argentia was a significant American military base during WWII and the Cold War, and the site of the secret Atlantic Charter meeting between Churchill and Roosevelt.
The Newfoundland 'Next Trip' Planning
Every road tripper knows the pain of having to leave places unexplored. Due to the constraints of my solo cross-Canada road trip schedule, I didn't have the time to explore the spectacular northern and western regions of Newfoundland this summer. However, I’ve already compiled a wish list—these spots are non-negotiable for a future, dedicated Newfoundland road trip. Consider these the essential detours for when you can take the time to truly wander!
Fogo Island
This island, often described as one of the four corners of the earth, is accessible via ferry from Farewell. It’s a hub of contemporary art and culture, most famous for the striking, modernist Fogo Island Inn. But beyond the architecture, it's a place to explore traditional outports, witness dramatic geography, and fully unplug from the mainland hustle.
Twillingate
Known as the "Iceberg Capital of the World," this area is prime real estate along Iceberg Alley. The drive itself is spectacular, winding past coves and fishing stages. Plan a boat tour here between late spring and early summer for your best chance to see colossal, ancient icebergs drifting south from Greenland.
Bonavista Peninsula (The Discovery Trail)
The Discovery Trail (Route 230) leads to the historic town of Bonavista, where John Cabot famously made landfall in 1497. The town boasts the majestic Cape Bonavista Lighthouse and the Ryan Premises National Historic Site (a preserved fishing complex). For a truly unforgettable sight, I'll want to visit nearby Elliston, which features some of the easiest-to-access puffin viewing sites on land.
Grand Bank
Situated on the Burin Peninsula, Grand Bank is known for its incredible maritime heritage and distinctive architecture, reflecting its history as a major fishing and sealing port. It serves as the jumping-off point for those exploring the rugged, often overlooked Burin Peninsula and its connections to St. Pierre & Miquelon.
St. Pierre & Miquelon
How about a quick ferry ride to France? St. Pierre et Miquelon is a self-governing territory of France, located just a short ferry ride from the Burin Peninsula (Grand Bank). It offers a wholly unique, European cultural experience, complete with Euros, French cuisine, and the necessity of a valid passport. It’s the ultimate side quest for any Atlantic Canada road trip.
Final Thoughts
I won't lie, reaching St. John's truly felt like the end of a quest. Newfoundland, aka 'The Rock", lives up to every promise of dramatic, windswept beauty and, most importantly, unparalleled human warmth. Whether you choose to blast across the island on the Trans-Canada Route to fit a tighter schedule or meander slowly through the outports on The Avalon Explorations Route, this place left a mark. It showed me a depth of Canadian culture that felt distinct, rooted in the sea and the community spirit. It’s a place that teaches patience, rewards curiosity, and reminds you that the journey is never just about the kilometres logged, but the people you meet along the way.
As the ferry pulls away from Argentia, the adventure is only half over! Now, I will turn back west to retrace my route across the continent, revisiting some friends and making some new detours. But first, tell me: Which Newfoundland route stole your heart—the efficient Trans-Canada Route or the winding, historic Avalon Explorations? Let me know which stops you’d add to your own itinerary in the comments below!
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This whole trip has been amazing to read. Jellybean Row is somewhere I wish I lived, it's so pretty. Newfoundland sounds amazing, I'd definitely be taking the longer ferry to avoid that day long drive!
Yesss it's been such a joy to follow along on your journey, but I was especially excited for you to reach Newfoundland since one of my best friends just moved their with her husband (originally from Alberta) and they can't stop raving about how beautiful it is! As a waterfall enthusiast, I'd love to see Grand Falls in person, wow what a beaut! I also love that there are puffins, one of my all time favorite birds! And...just between you and me, they're pretty tasty too (it was at a restaurant in Iceland - I still feel guilty hahah)
Newfoundland has been a place I've wanted to visit for a long time. But I feel like the time and effort to get there is more than worth it based on what I'm seeing. The ferry ride is quite the journey, but I personally love how it reminds me of the UK and Ireland. The colorful houses, the beautiful harbor towns, the dramatic Atlantic waves. I've seen Come From Away a number of times so a visit to Gander would have to be on my list. That and just taking some slow drives where I might hopefully see some puffins
I need to start a bingo card with all the provinces and regions of Canada to keep track which ones you have already covered. Newfoundland is one of the most intriguing for me personally. I love all the ties to the Titanic and would totally go and see all the commemorative museums and sites. Some of your pictures reminded me of scenery from Norway, with the charming colourful wooden houses and the rugged coastline at Mistaken Point. Dildo...pahahaha really????
Carolin | <a href="https://solotravelstory.com/">Solo Travel Story</a>
I can’t believe your cross-country trip is over - I’ve loved following along and know where to come for planning a trip to Canada! The colourful buildings on this leg of your trip are gorgeous - I just know I’d be taking dozens of photos!
How great that you got to see puffins too - they’re one of my favourite birds that I finally managed to see myself a few years ago.