The Viking Trail Newfoundland: Ultimate 7-Day Road Trip Guide (Map & Stops)
Discover One of Newfoundland & Labrador’s Most Iconic Landscapes
Quick Summary: Spanning 489 kilometres along Newfoundland’s Great Northern Peninsula, Route 430—The Viking Trail—is one of North America’s premier bucket-list road trips. This extraordinary journey connects two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the soaring glacial fjords of Gros Morne National Park and the 1,000-year-old Norse settlement at L’Anse aux Meadows.
Route Overview & Map Flow
Day-by-Day Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive at Deer Lake & Enter Gros Morne
- Driving Distance: 70 km
- Highlights: Arrive at Deer Lake Airport (YDF). Pick up rental car and drive north on Route 430 into Gros Morne National Park. Check into your hotel in Rocky Harbour or Norris Point. Take an evening walk around Rocky Harbour waterfront.
- Overnight: Rocky Harbour or Norris Point.
Day 2: Gros Morne (Western Brook Pond Fjord Boat Tour)
- Driving Distance: 60 km
- Highlights: Walk the 3 km flat peat marsh path to Western Brook Pond Fjord. Take the famous 2-hour boat tour cruising between 2,000-foot granite cliff walls. Visit Broom Point Historic Fishing Premises and watch the sunset at Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse.
- Overnight: Rocky Harbour.
Day 3: Gros Morne (The Tablelands Earth Mantle & Woody Point)
- Driving Distance: 120 km
- Highlights: Drive to the South Shore of Gros Morne to hike The Tablelands—an orange desert landscape where the Earth’s mantle was pushed up to the surface. Explore the historic heritage town of Woody Point and enjoy seafood at The Old Loft.
- Overnight: Rocky Harbour or Woody Point.
Day 4: Cow Head Beach & The Arches Provincial Park
- Driving Distance: 140 km
- Highlights: Drive north along the Gulf of St. Lawrence coast. Stop at Cow Head to walk 10 km of soft sand at Shallow Bay Beach. Stop at The Arches Provincial Park to photograph natural rock arches carved by ocean waves.
- Overnight: Port au Choix or Hawkes Bay.
Day 5: Port au Choix Indigenous History & Coastal Headlands
- Driving Distance: 110 km
- Highlights: Tour Port au Choix National Historic Site, celebrating 5,500 years of indigenous maritime cultures (Maritime Archaic, Dorset, and Groswater peoples). Hike the coastal headland trail to spot wild caribou and fossils.
- Overnight: Port au Choix or Plum Point.
Day 6: St. Anthony, Iceberg Alley & Whale Watching
- Driving Distance: 220 km
- Highlights: Drive to the tip of the Northern Peninsula at St. Anthony. Take a boat tour with Northland Discovery Tours along Iceberg Alley to see 10,000-year-old floating icebergs and breaching humpback whales. Visit Grenfell Historic Properties.
- Overnight: St. Anthony or L’Anse aux Meadows.
Day 7: L’Anse aux Meadows UNESCO Viking Settlement
- Driving Distance: 40 km
- Highlights: Tour L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site—the only authenticated Norse Viking settlement in North America (1,000 AD). Explore reconstructed sod buildings, meet costumed Viking re-enactors, and see original blacksmith iron artifacts. Dine on fresh cod at The Viking Feast before driving south to Deer Lake Airport.
Where to Eat Along the Viking Trail
- Rocky Harbour (Gros Morne): Earle’s Restaurant (Moose burgers & cod tongues), Anchors Aweigh Show.
- Norris Point: The Black Spruce (Fine dining at Neddie’s Harbour Inn).
- Woody Point: The Old Loft Café (Seafood chowder & bakeapple pie).
- Port au Choix: Anchor Café (Fresh Atlantic cod & snow crab).
- St. Anthony: The Lightkeepers Seafood Restaurant (Seafood rolls at Fishing Point Lighthouse).
- L’Anse aux Meadows: Norstead Viking Village Café, The Daily Catch.
Estimated 7-Day Viking Trail Budget (2 People)
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Gasoline | $180 – $280 | ~1,100 km total driving round-trip |
| Rental Car (7 Days) | $600 – $1,100 | Varies by season (Book 4+ mos ahead) |
| Lodging (6 Nights) | $900 – $1,500 | Average $150–$250/night (Inns & B&Bs) |
| Parks & Historic Passes | $110 | Parks Canada Family Pass (Gros Morne & L’Anse aux Meadows) |
| Dining & Seafood | $700 – $1,100 | ~$100–$150/day for two people |
| Fjord & Iceberg Tours | $220 – $380 | Western Brook boat tour & St. Anthony Iceberg tour |
| Total Trip Budget | $2,710 – $4,470 CAD | Complete 7-day Northern Peninsula adventure |
FAQs
1. What is the Viking Trail?
The Viking Trail (Route 430) is a 489 km scenic highway stretching along Newfoundland’s Northern Peninsula from Deer Lake to L’Anse aux Meadows.
2. What are the two UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the Viking Trail?
Gros Morne National Park (geological fjords & Earth’s mantle) and L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site (1,000 AD Norse Viking settlement).
3. How many days do you need for the Viking Trail?
7 days is ideal to explore Gros Morne, Port au Choix, St. Anthony, and L’Anse aux Meadows without rushing.
4. What was L’Anse aux Meadows?
The only authenticated 1,000 AD Norse settlement in North America, proved by Norwegian explorer Helge Ingstad in 1960. Vikings under Leif Erikson built sod houses and iron smithies here 500 years before Columbus.
5. When is the best time to see icebergs on the Viking Trail?
Between late May and late June off the coast of St. Anthony.
6. What airport should I fly into for the Viking Trail?
Deer Lake Airport (YDF), located at the southern start of Route 430.
7. Why is driving at night dangerous on Route 430?
Because of extremely high moose populations along the highway. Moose weigh up to 500 kg (1,100 lbs) and cause severe vehicle collisions. Always drive during daylight hours.
8. What is Port au Choix National Historic Site?
A National Historic Site protecting 5,500 years of indigenous maritime history (Maritime Archaic and Dorset cultures) on coastal bluffs.
9. Can you take a ferry to Labrador from the Viking Trail?
Yes! The Strait of Belle Isle Ferry operates daily sailings from St. Barbe, NL to Blanc-Sablon, Quebec / Labrador (1 Hour 45 Mins).
10. What is an Iceberg Beer?
A local beer brewed by Quidi Vidi Brewery in Newfoundland using 20,000-year-old water harvested from floating ocean icebergs.
11. Are roads paved along the Viking Trail?
Yes. Highway 430 is a fully paved 2-lane highway, though watch for occasional frost heaves and gravel shoulders.
12. What is a “Screech-In” ceremony?
A fun Newfoundland welcoming ritual for visitors involving a shot of Screech rum, reciting traditional phrases, and kissing a codfish!
13. What local foods should I try along the Viking Trail?
Fresh Atlantic cod, cod tongues with scrunchions, snow crab, moose burgers, and desserts made with bakeapples (cloudberries) and partridgeberries.
14. What nearby extensions can I add to the Viking Trail?
Take the ferry across to Labrador to drive the Trans-Labrador Highway, or explore Corner Brook south of Deer Lake.
15. How much does entry cost for L’Anse aux Meadows?
Parks Canada admission to L’Anse aux Meadows is ~$11.00 CAD per adult; free for youth under 17.
Related Guides & Internal Links
- Gros Morne National Park Complete Guide
- City Guide: St. John’s & Cape Spear
- 14-Day Atlantic Canada Master Road Trip
- Whale Watching & Iceberg Tour Guide
- Best Campgrounds in Atlantic Canada
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Newfoundland & Labrador |
| Designation / Status | Key Destination / Regional Highlight |
| Area / Scope | Regional Highlight & Surrounding Coastline |
| Best For | Outdoor adventure, scenic drives, local dining, photography, road trips |
| Best Time to Visit | May–October |
| Ideal Visit | 2–4 days |
| Interactive Map Pin | [49.58,-57.87] |
Why Visit The Viking Trail 7-Day Road Trip?
Unlike a single park or attraction, The Viking Trail 7-Day Road Trip is an entire living landscape where nature, wildlife, and local maritime communities are deeply interconnected.
Highlights include:
- Scenic Coastal Vistas: Sweeping ocean views and rugged headlands.
- Outdoor Trails: Hiking, walking, and nature pathways.
- Historic Maritime Charm: Local culture, seafood dining, and coastal hospitality.
- Abundant Wildlife: Marine life, seabirds, and native wildlife species.
Insider Local Tip: Beat the Crowds: Visit popular lookouts and trailheads early in the morning (8:00 AM – 10:00 AM) or during late afternoon golden hour for optimal lighting and peaceful ocean views!
Top Places to Visit
1. Primary Coastal & Heritage Highlights
Explore the core natural and cultural landmarks that define The Viking Trail 7-Day Road Trip.
Highlights:
- Walking along scenic coastal lookouts and boardwalks.
- Exploring local historical sites and heritage monuments.
- Sampling fresh Atlantic seafood at dockside restaurants.
- Photographing iconic lighthouses and ocean bluffs.
Best Hiking Trails
Popular options include:
| Trail Name | Distance & Duration | Difficulty | Key Highlights & Terrain |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coastal Headland Trail | 3.5 km (1.5 Hours) | Easy/Moderate | Coastal cliff walk with ocean lookouts. |
| Forest & River Trail | 4.2 km (2 Hours) | Moderate | Shaded Acadian forest path along river bends. |
| Summit Ridge Trail | 6.0 km (2.5 Hours) | Moderate | High elevation overlook with 360-degree vistas. |
Always check trail conditions before heading out.
Wildlife You’ll See
Depending on the season, visitors may encounter a rich variety of native species:
- Birds: Bald Eagles, Osprey, Great Blue Herons, Seabirds, and migratory songbirds.
- Marine Life: Harbour Seals, Minke Whales, Harbour Porpoises, and Atlantic Cod.
- Land Mammals: White-tailed Deer, Red Foxes, Snowshoe Hares, and Moose.
The combination of coastal waters, forests, and wetlands makes the region one of Atlantic Canada’s richest natural habitats.
Best Time to Visit
Spring (May–June)
- Rivers and waterfalls at peak flow.
- Wildflowers blooming in coastal valleys.
- Fewer crowds at major lookouts.
Summer (July–August)
- Warmest weather and pleasant ocean breezes.
- Coastal boat tours, high-tide kayaking, and beach swimming.
- Full festival and restaurant operating schedules.
Fall (September–October)
- One of the best seasons thanks to colourful forests, cooler temperatures, and excellent hiking.
- Seasonal harvest markets and fall foliage drives.
Winter (November–April)
- Quiet snowshoeing, winter photography, coastal ice formations, and cozy lodge retreats.
️ Suggested Day-by-Day Scroll-Path Itinerary
Day 1: Coastal Arrival & Core Highlights
- Morning: Arrive in The Viking Trail 7-Day Road Trip. Explore the main waterfront boardwalk and historic monuments.
- Afternoon: Take a scenic walking trail along coastal headlands and enjoy ocean lookouts.
- Evening: Enjoy fresh Atlantic seafood dining at a local harbourfront bistro.
- Day 1 Logistics: ~85 km driving along main coastal highways.
Day 2: Wilderness Hikes & Scenic Drives
- Morning: Hike the primary trail to high cliff lookouts and scenic river gorges.
- Afternoon: Drive scenic coastal parkways, stopping at lighthouse lookouts and craft shops.
- Evening: Traditional Maritime dinner and campfire sunset viewing.
- Day 2 Logistics: ~90 km driving with frequent scenic pullouts.
Day 3: Heritage Sites & Local Culture
- Morning: Visit local museums, artisan studios, and historic heritage sites.
- Afternoon: Relax at a local sandy beach or take an afternoon boat excursion.
- Evening: Departure dinner celebrating your complete Atlantic Canada journey.
- Day 3 Logistics: ~75 km return driving to major highways.
Sustainable Travel Tips
As a protected natural sanctuary, visitors are encouraged to follow leave-no-trace ethics:
- Stay on marked trails: Protect fragile coastal vegetation and cliffside soils from erosion.
- Respect wildlife: Maintain a safe 30-metre distance from all wild animals.
- ️ Leave no trace: Pack out all trash and reduce single-use plastics.
- Support local businesses: Dine at family seafood shacks and purchase local artisan crafts.
- Follow safety guidelines: Always check tide schedules and weather conditions before coastal exploration.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is The Viking Trail 7-Day Road Trip suitable for families?
Yes! Many attractions, beaches, lookouts, and walking trails are barrier-free and family-friendly.
2. How many days should I spend visiting?
A 2 to 4-day trip is ideal to explore major attractions, complete scenic hikes, and enjoy local seafood dining without rushing.
3. Can I visit year-round?
Yes, though May through October offers the widest range of operational attractions, boat tours, and warm weather.
4. What is the best way to travel around The Viking Trail 7-Day Road Trip?
A personal vehicle or rental car is strongly recommended to explore the scenic coastal highways and trailhead lookouts.
5. Are dogs allowed?
Yes, leashed dogs are welcome on most trails and outdoor lookouts.
6. Where is the best place to eat seafood?
At local harbourfront seafood restaurants, lobster shacks, and craft brewpubs.
7. What should I pack for coastal weather?
Layered clothing, a windproof/waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and sun protection.
8. Are there gas stations along the route?
Gas is available in major hub towns; always fill up before entering remote wilderness stretches.
9. Can I see whales in the area?
Whale watching boat tours operate along coastal bays from June through October.
10. Are campgrounds available?
Yes, National, Provincial, and private campgrounds offer tent, RV, and glamping options from May through October.
11. What airport is closest to The Viking Trail 7-Day Road Trip?
Major regional airports include Halifax Stanfield (YHZ), Moncton (YQM), Charlottetown (YYG), and St. John’s (YYT).
12. Do I need a park pass?
National Parks require a Parks Canada Day Pass; Provincial Parks offer free or low-cost daily entry.
13. What is the best season for fall foliage?
Early to mid-October offers peak autumn foliage across coastal and mountain forests.
14. Is cell coverage reliable?
Cell coverage is reliable in towns, but can drop in deep valleys and interior wilderness areas.
15. What nearby attractions can I combine with this trip?
Check our related guides below for regional road trip loops and neighboring coastal towns!
Final Thoughts
The Viking Trail 7-Day Road Trip is far more than a collection of scenic viewpoints—it is a living, breathing natural landscape where ocean tides, ancient forests, coastal communities, and diverse wildlife converge. Whether you are driving coastal parkways, hiking to high cliff lookouts, exploring sea caves, or simply watching the sunset over the Atlantic, this region promises an unforgettable Maritime journey.