How To Spot Ancient 10,000 Year Old Icebergs In Twillingate, Newfoundland

Before You Venture Out

• Visit Iceberg Finder to spot a berg near you!
• No fees are required for the following hikes.
  • If you plan to enter Long Point Lighthouse, there may be an admission requirement.
    • As we arrived at the lighthouse early, it was closed and we were unable to use the restrooms. Keep that in mind if you start your hike early.
  • If the parking lot is full, there is also parking located in Crow Head. You can also start hiking from this point.
  • Rockcut Trails has very helpful hiking maps of local trails in Twillingate.

Animal Safety in Newfoundland

• Newfoundland is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including iconic species like moose, caribou, black bears, lynx, and foxes. In addition, the island is a home to numerous bird and fish species. While encounters with predators are rare, there’s one creature you’re almost certain to meet: the infamous black fly!
• Newfoundland’s pristine natural environment provides the perfect habitat for black flies, which are active from spring through summer. If you’ve been here, you know just how persistent they can be. Count on some mosquitoes as well!
• Keep DEET bug spray handy, and a head net will become your best friend if you get swarmed.

Nanny Hole and Long Point Lighthouse Loop – strenuous, 5.7 miles, loop

Start out your day by heading to the Long Point Lighthouse. This is truly one of the best locations to see icebergs in Twillingate. If you arrive early, you will have no problem parking. As we left this location around 1pm, it was packed. Get there as early as you can because this is a popular attraction in Twillingate.

First, head to the east side of the lighthouse to begin the hike. This first section has fairly steep undulating sections as you hike along the coastline cliffs of the area. If the timing is right, you may see icebergs.

Eventually, you’ll reach Devil’s Cove. As you continue along the coastline, keep an eye out for whales or other wildlife! You’ll then reach another cove area where there is a connection to another trail.

The Hike Continues

Next, hike toward Crow Head. Continue through a moss-carpeted forest. This area is very boggy and may be wet, so be prepared for that. In the wooded area, you will likely encounter mosquitoes. As you continue on the path, you’ll finally reach a few lookout points with a birds-eye view of Crow Head.

Then, scramble down a fairly steep section of trail that utilizes a rope for balance. The trail will eventually dump you out onto the road. Turn left at the intersection onto Main Street. Follow the road and pass the Crow’s Nest Café on the right. This is a great stop for lunch or a bite to eat!

Continue down the hill along the road and turn right on Broadview Street. This will lead you to a dirt road that you’ll follow up the hill and back around to stunning coastline cliff views. This is where we saw the most breathtaking icebergs in Twillingate!

We honestly couldn’t believe our eyes. Follow the trail to Seabreeze Park and Sleepy Cove. If time allows, take a rest here and have a snack or lunch. Then, head back up the hill along the coastline and follow the trail that meanders along the coastal cliffs, through the forest, and up to Long Point Lighthouse.

Note that this hike may take longer than normal, especially if there are whales and icebergs to view. 😍

Lower Little Harbor Trail – moderate, 3 miles, loop

Second on your hiking agenda is another great hike just south of Twillingate. This hike features an old settlement, root cellars, a 30-foot natural arch, and picturesque cliffside and beach views.

First, start your hike at the parking area and head down the dirt road. Note that this road is in use by local residents. We met up with a local resident here and his very friendly dog. Newfoundlanders don’t know a stranger and we love it!

The road will take you to a fork in the trail. Head to the left to reach the natural arch. The hike to the natural arch is an easy hike for those wanting a shorter/easier experience.

After exploring the natural arch, head up the stairs and follow along the rocky trail with spectacular views of the area. As you continue along the coastal trail, you’ll reach some sections that take you right down close to the water, then right back up the steep trail for more views.

Eventually, you’ll reach Jones’ Cove which is a very picturesque beach where you might be tempted to take a dip in the water. There is a campsite at this location as well. After you finish cooling off, head back up the hill and link up at the fork in the trail. Hike back up the dirt road and back to the parking lot.

Final Reflections

Icebergs. What more can we say? Seeing icebergs in Twillingate was one of the best highlights during our trip to Newfoundland. As you can see from the pictures, this is one spot you can’t miss. Be sure to make this a top destination during your visit to Newfoundland.

We were not sure we would see any icebergs in Twillingate because we arrived past peak season. We got so lucky! Furthermore, if you are staying in Twillingate, there are great restaurant selections and the view we had from our accommodations overlooking the sea was icing on the cake.