Details
Length: 742km (445mi) linear route from Port aux Basques in the south to Crow Head (just east of L’Anse aux Meadows UNESCO World Heritage Site) in the north.
Maximum Elevation: 420m (1,378ft)
Trailhead Elevation/Location: 15m (49ft) at N47.58327 W59.14685
Time: 35-50 days
Trail Type: In the south, the IATNL thru-hiker’s route is composed of the Newfoundland T’Railway (aka Trans Canada Trail), before it transitions to a series of gravel logging roads and secondary highways. Along the way, hikers have the option to hike some of the IATNL mountain trail routes, however experience with backcountry navigation and wilderness camping is highly recommended, as is use of a gps.
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate*
Camping: Apart from official parks and campgrounds, there are no designated campsites. However in Newfoundland and Labrador, hikers may set up camp essentially wherever they like in the backcountry, as long as they abide by dry weather fire restrictions (https://www.gov.nl.ca/ffa/public-education/forestry/forest-fires/fire-hazard-map-forecast/) and leave no trace. However it is recommended that they be as discreet as possible and take care during hunting season. See below.
Water Shuttle: Be sure to check the start and end date of the Bonne Bay Water Shuttle while planning an IATNL thru-hike.
Water Sources: All substantial streams and lakes contain potable water. Small slow-moving brooks and bog ponds should be avoided if possible.
Resupply: Hikers are able to find most supplies required at the larger towns of Stephenville, Corner Brook and Rocky Harbour. However the smaller towns and communities along the route have fewer and smaller general stores that typically carry only basic supplies. With 2-4 day backcountry stretches with no towns, gas stations or convenience stores, it’s recommended that hikers carry at least 3 days of supplies at all times.
Cell Service: Is available along much of the route, though there are blind spots between some communities and in low lying and remote areas of backcountry logging roads.
Transportation Links:
- https://www.marineatlantic.ca/;
- https://deerlakeairport.com/;
- https://www.drl-lr.com/;
- https://www.stanthony.ca/discover/transportation/;
- https://noordhof.wixsite.com/gnpvinland/transportation;
- https://www.facebook.com/grosmornetransportation
Hunting Season: Because much of the route crosses big game hunting areas, including those allocated to hunting outfitters, caution is recommended beginning in late August (for bow) and early September (for rifle). (Exact starting dates vary from year to year.) Hikers should wear a bright color and keep a safe distance from hunters and big game.
Dog Rating: easy to moderate
* Easy > Moderate > Challenging > Difficult