The five best lakes in Newfoundland, listed

Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is known for its stunning landscapes, including numerous beautiful lakes. While it’s challenging to definitively rank the “five best” lakes in the province due to personal preferences and varying opinions, here are five lakes in Newfoundland that are often praised for their beauty and recreational opportunities.

Gros Morne National Park Lakes

Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its remarkable landscapes, including several breathtaking lakes. The park’s lakes are a significant part of its allure, offering visitors stunning vistas and opportunities for various outdoor activities.
One of the most notable lakes in Gros Morne National Park is Western Brook Pond. This spectacular lake is actually a fjord, formed by glacial activity during the last ice age. Towering cliffs surround the crystal-clear waters, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring setting. Visitors can take a boat tour along the lake’s surface, immersing themselves in the beauty of the fjord and its surrounding landscapes.
Trout River Pond is another stunning lake within Gros Morne National Park. Surrounded by lush forests and dramatic cliffs, this lake offers tranquility and natural beauty. It’s an excellent spot for kayaking, canoeing, or simply enjoying a peaceful lakeside picnic.
In addition to these two prominent lakes, there are numerous smaller lakes scattered throughout the park. These smaller lakes often offer secluded spots for fishing, hiking, and wildlife watching. Many of them can be found along hiking trails, providing opportunities for visitors to take in the natural splendor while exploring the park’s diverse terrain.
Overall, the lakes of Gros Morne National Park play a vital role in showcasing the region’s geological and ecological diversity. They complement the park’s rugged coastal areas, lush forests, and imposing cliffs, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.
Gander Lake

Gander Lake is one of the largest and most picturesque lakes in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Located near the town of Gander in the central part of the province, the lake is a popular destination for both locals and visitors seeking natural beauty and outdoor activities.
The lake’s pristine waters and scenic surroundings make it a haven for boating, fishing, and various water-based recreational activities. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck catching species like trout, salmon, and whitefish. Gander Lake is known for its abundant fish population, attracting anglers from far and wide.
The tranquil atmosphere of Gander Lake makes it an ideal spot for relaxation and connecting with nature. Whether it’s strolling along the lakeshore, enjoying a lakeside picnic, or camping near the water, visitors can immerse themselves in the serenity of the area.
For birdwatchers, Gander Lake presents opportunities to spot various bird species, including waterfowl and migratory birds that frequent the lake’s shores. The lake’s diverse ecosystem provides a natural habitat for many avian species, making it a rewarding location for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Surrounding the lake are forests and hills that add to the area’s charm, creating a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities. Hiking and nature walks are popular here, allowing visitors to explore the rich flora and fauna of the region.
During the winter months, Gander Lake and its surroundings transform into a winter wonderland, attracting ice fishing enthusiasts, snowmobilers, and cross-country skiers. The frozen lake becomes a hub for winter recreational activities, adding another dimension of enjoyment for visitors.
Whether it’s for a day trip or an extended stay, Gander Lake offers a peaceful retreat where visitors can connect with nature and appreciate the natural beauty of Newfoundland’s central region.
Grand Lake

Grand Lake is the largest lake in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, and is located in the central part of the province. Known for its vast size and scenic beauty, Grand Lake offers a range of recreational opportunities and serves as a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
The lake’s expansive water body makes it ideal for various water activities, including boating, canoeing, and kayaking. Its calm waters provide a peaceful environment for leisurely cruises or adventurous exploration.
Fishing is another popular pastime at Grand Lake, as it is home to a variety of fish species. Anglers can try their luck catching trout, salmon, and other freshwater fish that thrive in the lake’s abundant ecosystem.
Surrounding the lake are forests and rolling hills, adding to its picturesque charm. The shoreline is dotted with secluded spots where visitors can set up camp, enjoy lakeside picnics, or simply relax and soak in the natural beauty.
Grand Lake is also a significant habitat for wildlife, attracting birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. The area offers opportunities to observe various bird species, including waterfowl and migratory birds, making it a rewarding destination for birdwatching.
In the winter, Grand Lake transforms into a winter wonderland, drawing snowmobilers and ice fishing enthusiasts. The frozen lake becomes a hub for winter recreational activities, providing a unique experience for visitors during the colder months.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, taking a drive along the scenic roads that run parallel to the lake offers stunning vistas and ample opportunities for photography.
Grand Lake’s accessibility from nearby towns and cities makes it a convenient destination for day trips or longer getaways. Its vastness and unspoiled beauty provide an escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in the tranquility and serenity of nature
Pistolet Bay Provincial Park Lakes

Pistolet Bay Provincial Park is located on the Great Northern Peninsula of Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, and is known for its rugged coastal beauty and serene freshwater lakes. The park encompasses several picturesque lakes, each contributing to the area’s allure and offering visitors a variety of outdoor experiences.
White Bay Pond is one of the prominent lakes within Pistolet Bay Provincial Park. Nestled amidst the wilderness, this tranquil lake provides an idyllic setting for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing. Surrounded by lush forests and granite cliffs, it offers a peaceful escape and opportunities to immerse oneself in nature.
Little Pistolet Bay Pond is another gem within the park. Smaller in size but equally charming, this lake features calm waters and a picturesque shoreline. Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks along the lakeshore, appreciate the abundance of wildlife, and capture the beauty of the surrounding landscape through photography.
Both lakes present opportunities for fishing, and anglers can try their luck catching species like trout and salmon. Fishing on these pristine lakes allows visitors to connect with the natural environment and experience the thrill of reeling in a catch.
Pistolet Bay Provincial Park’s lakes are also surrounded by diverse ecosystems, making it a haven for birdwatchers. Birdwatching enthusiasts can spot a variety of avian species, including waterfowl and migratory birds that frequent the lakeside and surrounding forests.
Camping facilities are available in the park, allowing visitors to extend their stay and fully embrace the outdoor experience. Camping by the lakeside offers the chance to wake up to breathtaking views and the soothing sounds of nature.
Pistolet Bay Provincial Park, with its captivating lakes and stunning coastal scenery, provides a retreat for nature lovers, hikers, anglers, and those seeking solitude in a serene natural setting. The lakes are an integral part of the park’s appeal, adding to its allure as a destination for outdoor exploration and relaxation.
Exploits River Reservoir

The Exploits River Reservoir, also known simply as the Exploits Reservoir, is the largest body of freshwater in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. It is an expansive man-made reservoir formed by the Bay d’Espoir Hydroelectric Project, which began construction in the 1960s and was completed in the 1980s.
The reservoir was created by damming the Exploits River, a major river in Newfoundland. As a result, the river’s flow was diverted, and the water backed up, forming the vast reservoir that now stretches across a large area of central Newfoundland.
The Exploits River Reservoir is a remarkable sight to behold, with its crystal-clear waters stretching across valleys and mountains, surrounded by scenic wilderness. The area offers stunning panoramic views, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and outdoor adventurers.
Fishing is a significant attraction at the Exploits Reservoir. The reservoir is home to various fish species, including trout, salmon, and landlocked Atlantic salmon. Anglers from near and far visit the reservoir for its excellent fishing opportunities, making it a renowned destination for recreational fishing.
The Exploits River Reservoir also serves an essential role in the generation of hydroelectric power. The Bay d’Espoir Hydroelectric Project, operated by Newfoundland and Labrador Hydro, harnesses the power of the water to produce clean, renewable electricity for the province.
The surrounding area of the reservoir provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The vast wilderness surrounding the reservoir is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it a haven for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Whether you’re interested in enjoying the recreational activities, taking in the breathtaking scenery, or learning about the region’s hydroelectric power generation, the Exploits River Reservoir offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors exploring the beauty and natural resources of central Newfoundland.