Top 5 Motorcycling Drives in Western Newfoundland

Sometimes, the journey really is better than the destination. Exploring the West Coast of Newfoundland on motorcycle allows you to connect with the landscapes as you coast through the fresh breezes along the coastal roads, or wind your way towards the top of a mountain. These routes offer some of the most breathtaking drives in the province.

1. French Ancestors Route / La Route des Ancêtres Français

The coastal French Ancestors Route is so abundant in beautiful seascape scenery — from beaches to cliffs to wide ocean views — that it may take the entire day to fully experience it.

Looking to add to your drive? Explore Route 462 (18 km one way) from Port au Port East to Fox Island River. The narrow road is flanked by the Long Range Mountains to the east and Port au Port Bay to the west. It's a popular spot for moose, so use caution when driving.

There are two entry points to the French Ancestors Route, Route 460 and Route 490.

Distance: 161 km one way

2. Captain Cook's Trail, Bay of Islands South

Starting in the city of Corner Brook, it takes just under an hour to reach the last town, Lark Harbour, on this route.  Captain Cook's Trail weaves along the coast in and out of towns and fishing stations. The Blow Me Down Mountains reach 650 meters into the sky making for spectacular scenery and waterfalls after periods of snow melt or rain.

Captain Cook's Trail - Route 450

Distance: 53 km one way

3. Admiral Palliser's Trail, Bay of Islands North

A casual drive through communities with ties to the land and the sea. From the city of Corner Brook, arrive at the community of Cox's Cove in just under an hour. At roads end, view panoramic vistas of the intricate landscapes of the Bay of Islands.

Admiral Palliser's Trail - Route 440

Distance: 40 km one way

4. Gros Morne Drive South

Starting in Wiltondale, the entrance to Gros Morne National Park, this road winds through forest before reaching the historic Town of Woody Point on the shores of Bonne Bay. Continue the drive alongside the rusty Tablelands to the fishing community of Trout River.

Gros Morne Drive South is part of the Viking Trail - Route 431

Distance: 51 km one way

5. Southwest Coast Lighthouse Loop

Pass through the Wreckhouse and an array of landscapes - wetlands, mountains, marshlands, and  ocean – to see 3 iconic lighthouses.

Route 406 – Cape Anguille Lighthouse; Route 408 – Cape Ray Lighthouse; and, Route 470 to Rose Blanche Lighthouse.

Southwest Coast Lighthouse Loop is part of the Codroy Valley International Wetland Road Trip - Distance: 141 km

Looking to add to your drive? Explore the Three Rivers/Sandy Point Lookout along Routes 404 and 405 (61 km one way) where tranquil communities and meadows overlook Bay St. George.

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If you are looking for places to visit on the West Coast, click here.

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