The best cycling routes around Newfoundland

Newfoundland offers a diverse range of terrain for touring cyclists. You'll find rugged coastlines with breathtaking fjords, dense boreal forests, and unique barrens, particularly on the Great Northern Peninsula. While some routes are relatively flat, others involve significant climbs, especially in areas like Gros Morne National Park. The Upper Greenwood Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop from Bloomingdale, for instance, features significant elevation gain through varied terrain.

Yes, Newfoundland is home to the extensive Newfoundland T'Railway Provincial Park, an 880-kilometer (547-mile) bikepacking route that traverses the island from east to west along an abandoned railway bed. Its surface varies from smooth gravel to rough doubletrack, often requiring a mountain bike or gravel bike with robust tires. This route offers a remote experience with long stretches of wilderness.

Newfoundland's touring cycling routes often pass by stunning natural features. You can explore areas like Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its unique Tablelands and dramatic fjords. Along some routes, you might encounter viewpoints such as Hawkwatch Overlook or Wyanokie High Point, and even natural monuments like Tripod Rock. The island's extensive coastline also provides continuous ocean views.

Yes, you can find waterfalls in the vicinity of some touring cycling routes. For example, Chikahoki Falls is a notable waterfall that can be explored as part of your cycling adventure around Newfoundland.

The best time for touring cycling in Newfoundland is generally from late spring to early fall. During late spring and early summer, you might even spot towering icebergs drifting offshore in 'Iceberg Alley' and have opportunities for whale watching. However, be prepared for variable weather, as Newfoundland's climate can be unpredictable, even in summer, with possibilities of rain, strong winds, and cooler temperatures.

Yes, there are several circular touring cycling routes available. For a moderate ride, consider the Cedar Lake Swimming Dock – Mountain Lakes Dock and Boats loop from Kinnelon, which covers 38.5 km. Another option is the shorter Butler Reservoir loop from Kinnelon, an 8.2 km trail through forested areas.

Newfoundland offers excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. Coastal areas are prime locations for whale watching and observing large colonies of seabirds, including over 500,000 Atlantic puffins at the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. Moose sightings are also common, particularly in areas like Gros Morne National Park, so cyclists should be aware of their presence, especially on roadsides.

Absolutely. Newfoundland offers challenging routes with significant elevation changes. For experienced riders, the Upper Greenwood Lake – Pinecliff Lake loop from Bloomingdale is a difficult 100.5 km trail with considerable elevation gain. Another demanding option is the Greenwood Lake – Sunset View from Madison Loop loop from Wide Dirt Pulloff, a difficult 90.28 km route.

Yes, Newfoundland has several moderate touring cycling routes. The Cedar Lake Swimming Dock – Mountain Lakes Dock and Boats loop from Kinnelon is a popular moderate 38.5 km path offering a balanced ride through natural surroundings. Another moderate option is the Ramapo Lake – Ramapo Lake loop from Bloomingdale, covering 33.5 km.

There are at least 4 touring cycling routes detailed in this guide for Newfoundland, with options ranging from moderate to difficult. The region's network offers diverse experiences for different ability levels.

Surface conditions vary significantly across Newfoundland. While some routes feature paved roads, others, like sections of the Newfoundland T'Railway Provincial Park, can range from smooth gravel and hard-packed sections to rough doubletrack and creek beds. It's advisable to choose a bike with sturdy tires, such as a mountain bike or gravel bike, for unpaved trails.

Yes, St. John's, the capital city, is actively developing its cycling infrastructure, including bike lanes and shared-use paths, making it more accessible for urban rides. This provides a different cycling experience compared to the more remote touring routes found elsewhere on the island.