The best cycling routes in Newfoundland and Labrador

There are over 30 touring cycling routes available in Newfoundland and Labrador, offering a diverse range of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars.

Newfoundland and Labrador's touring cycling routes feature a mix of dramatic coastal scenery, diverse boreal forests, and unique geological formations. You'll encounter both paved and unpaved surfaces, with routes ranging from moderate paths to challenging trails involving significant elevation changes, especially along the coast and in mountainous areas like the Long Range Mountains.

Yes, Newfoundland and Labrador offers several easy touring cycling routes. For example, the Doyle's Road Trail Access – Kelligrews Beach loop from Conception Bay South is an easy 12.8-mile (20.7 km) trail that takes you through coastal areas, ideal for a relaxed ride.

The best time for touring cycling in Newfoundland and Labrador is generally during the summer months. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions. Early summer might also provide the unique opportunity to spot icebergs along the coast.

Yes, many touring cycling routes in the region are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end in the same location. An example is the Railway Coastal Museum loop from Cape Spear, a moderate 10.8-mile (17.4 km) route offering scenic views.

Newfoundland and Labrador's routes offer access to stunning natural features. You can explore unique geological formations like the Tablelands in Gros Morne National Park, or visit waterfalls such as Bakers Brook Falls. The coastal routes often provide breathtaking views of fjords, bays, and sea stacks.

Absolutely. The region is rich in wildlife. Cyclists might encounter moose in inland areas, while coastal routes offer opportunities to spot various whale species (like humpbacks and minke) and thousands of seabirds, including puffins and gannets. Eagles, hawks, and ospreys are also commonly seen.

While specific family-friendly amenities vary by route, many of the easier and moderate loops are suitable for families. Routes that pass by ponds or through less challenging terrain, such as the Topsail Pond – Ninepenny Brewing loop from Paradise, can be good options for a family outing.

You can cycle to several significant landmarks. Near St. John's, you can reach Cabot Tower on Signal Hill, offering panoramic views. Other notable trails include the Corner Brook Stream Trail and the North Head Trail. Gros Morne National Park also features the iconic Gros Morne Mountain Trail.

Yes, for those seeking a longer adventure, the Viking Trail is a challenging route extending approximately 325 miles (523 km) from Deer Lake to St. Anthony's. This route takes you through Gros Morne National Park and to L'Anse aux Meadows, offering a comprehensive exploration of the Great Northern Peninsula.

Newfoundland and Labrador has 16 moderate touring cycling routes. A popular choice is the Middle Pond loop from St. John's International Airport, a 12.7-mile (20.5 km) route with varied elevation, offering a good balance of challenge and scenery.

For a challenging ride with significant elevation, consider routes like the Railway Coastal Museum – Cape Spear Lighthouse loop from St. John's. This difficult 19.0-mile (30.6 km) route features substantial climbs and descents, rewarding cyclists with dramatic coastal vistas.