Hi,
My partner and I are considering driving and ferrying from Nova Scotia to Newfoundland and on to Cartwright Labrador and driving back inland to Quebec. We are looking for any useful tips and info on this journey as it is still in the conception stage. We are worried that the benefits of travelling to Labrador and being able to explore a relitively untouched country will not outweigh the possible problems this journey might pose. For example the research we have done so far shows there to be few amenities along to route. Is filling up with gas difficult? Are the roads in bad condition? Is the journey across labrador tedious or is the beauty of the country enough to make it worthwhile? Any info and experience comments 100% welcome. Thanks so much to all that takes time to help us plan our summer road trip.
Newfoundland and Labrador
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How exciting! I have visited Newfoundland and many people there spoke of the beauty of Labrador. The only comment that I remember was that they recommended doing it by a boat cruise, going in to the fjords. If you do this by car, I would love to hear about your trip.
I've only driven a very small portion of the Trans-Labrador Highway (Blanc-Sablon to Red Bay) and that portion was all asphalt. We followed the coast and it was quite scenic. Most of the rest of the highway is gravel with long distances between communities.
If you Google Trans-Labrador Highway you will find lots of accounts of travel on it, including the newest section from Cartwright Junction to Happy Valley/Goose Bay.
Here's an example from the Newfoundland and Labrador tourism website:
Taking this drive, which is mainly on gravel, will allow you to travel through the boreal forest, and with a side trip, allow you to dip into Subarctic tundra. While this trip can be done with the family car, be advised that gravel roads are best suited to an SUV, especially in winter time. Travelling off the beaten path means gas, food, and rest stops can be few and far between (up to 200 or so miles apart), and there is also very little cellphone coverage. Forewarned is forearmed.