Looking for a hidden gem with rugged coastlines and some of the clearest night skies in Canada? Terra Nova National Park, tucked on the eastern boundary of Newfoundland, gives nature lovers an opportunity to experience Mother Nature’s untouched beauty. Covering about 248 square miles, the sanctuary is one of the most beautiful places in Canada to visit thanks to its boreal forests, hikes, bays, and some of the best spots for stargazing.
Officially founded in 1957, Terra Nova was among the first national parks in Newfoundland, Canada’s seventh largest province. However, it was not until 1961 that it officially started operations. In 2018, the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada designated the park as a Dark Sky Preserve due to the measures the park has taken to eliminate light pollution and provide a dark sky for star gazing.
Terra Nova National Park is a 45-minute drive from Gander via the Trans-Canada Highway. You can fly into Gander International Airport or St. John’s International Airport, the closest major city (which is about two hours southeast of the park).
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Stargazing in Terra Nova National Park
Two persons watching the Milky Way sitting on chairs – Carlos Fernandez/Getty Images
Terra Nova National Park is among Canada’s most spectacular national parks for stargazers. Its remote location on Newfoundland’s northeast coast, far from the glare of major cities, gives it some of the clearest, darkest skies in Canada for viewing thousands of stars and the Milky Way. One of the best spots to view the stars in Terra Nova National Park is Sandy Pond, a freshwater lake bordered by boreal forest. It’s one of the darkest places in the park with a clear sight of the sky. The stars can be seen from the parking lot, or take a short walk to the sandy beach where the waters reflect the stars above.
If you want to stargaze on your camping trip, the Newman Sound Campground is the best spot. The campsite has little lighting, and you can step outside your tent or RV at night to gaze at the starry skies. Ochre Hill was a fire-watch station, but it has also become a popular stargazing spot. During the day, travelers can enjoy stunning views of the coastline and forests, but after sunset, its elevated location provides unobstructed views of the stars. You can also see the stars from Blue Hill, the highest point in the park. The elevated location provides a breathtaking view of the skies. If you want to know more about the night sky and constellations, Terra Nova National Park has events to celebrate astronomy.
Other activities to enjoy near the national park
Happy Latin American farmer selling organic strawberries to a client at a Farmer’s Market – Hispanolistic/Getty Images
Apart from the stunning night skies, Terra Nova National Park is awash with other outdoor adventures and activities that visitors can enjoy. If hiking is your thing, Terra Nova National Park has close to 50 miles of hiking trails that wind through the scenic landscapes and forests, making it one of the best destinations around the world for avid hikers. You can follow the Ochre Hill Trail, which takes you to a fire tower that provides beautiful views of the landscape. You can also try out the Terra Nova Coastal Trail, which is 5.6 miles long. This trail passes through the coast of Newman Sound with stunning water views.
If you want to discover towns near Terra Nova National Park, visit Clarenville, about 22 miles south of the park. On your tour around town, stop by the Clarenville Farm & Market for live entertainment or shopping for local produce and souvenirs. Have lunch with an ocean view at the Stellar Kitchen found in the Clarenville Inn to try its seafood chowder or deep-fried cod. If you’re craving comfort food, Rod’s Restaurant is the go-to eatery for locals and visitors looking for some hearty treats. Try the regional specialities, such as hot sandwiches with dressing and gravy, fish and chips, or fish and brewis (a hard biscuit made with salt fish and pork).
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