A Weekend on the East Coast: Things to do in Clarenville, Newfoundland this Winter
Situated on the east coast of Newfoundland is Clarenville, a one-of-a-kind small town with hidden gems around every corner, especially during the winter. The snow gives the relaxed town an added sparkle, making it one of the most magical places to be in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
From skiing down the slopes to snowshoeing through breathtaking landscapes, there are plenty of things to do in Clarenville. So, embrace the season and set off on an outdoor adventure with this weekend itinerary.
Day 1 in Clarenville, Newfoundland
Start your day at the Bare Mountain Coffee House
Serving coffee and baked goods since 2019 in a restored heritage building, Bare Mountain Coffee House is a bonafide Clarenville institution. The coffee house opens at 8am most days with a lineup of morning favourites like fresh muffins, croissants, scones and smoothies — and that’s just scratching the surface. Bare Mountain also serves lunch from 11am to 3pm every day. You can’t go wrong with the bacon grilled cheese, the chicken curry wrap or any of their seasonal soups. And with incredible views of Random Island, Bare Mountain is the perfect place to start any day in Clarenville, Newfoundland.
Glide down the slopes at White Hills Ski Resort
Located just one kilometre west of the city, White Hills Ski Resort is the perfect addition to your ‘things to do in Clarenville’ list. Winter sports enthusiasts will find plenty at this ski resort, which features a variety of 11 downhill trails nestled across 55 acres of terrain in the majestic hills of the Discovery Region. While some trails and glades reach over 750 vertical feet, White Hills ensures that beginners and experts alike will feel at home.
Venture through the Nordic Ski Trails
Not so keen on skiing and snowboarding? The breathtaking wilderness around White Hill Ski Resort boasts over 40 kilometres of the best groomed cross-country trails in Newfoundland. The Nordic Ski Trails are marked, interconnected and groomed whenever and wherever possible. With bunny hills, steep slopes and impressive vistas, it’s no wonder White Hills Ski Resort is known as ‘Eastern Newfoundland’s Winter Playground.’
Day 2 in Clarenville, Newfoundland
Indulge in a hearty meal at Rod’s Restaurant
Rod’s Restaurant is the quintessential spot in Clarenville, Newfoundland for mouth-watering seafood dishes and hearty burgers. Open from 8am to 8pm most days, the dishes here will leave you with a full belly at a great price. You can’t go wrong with their signature fish and chips or one of their irresistible burgers. For a traditional East Coast meal, opt for the fish n’ brewis or the cod tongue platter. Rod’s Restaurant is currently offering take out, so you can enjoy the delicious food from the comfort of your accommodations. We guarantee it’ll leave you wanting more.
Cross-country ski or snowshoe through Terra Nova National Park
Cold weather shouldn’t stop you from taking advantage of some of Clarenville’s best trails. Throw on some layers and head to Terra Nova National Park, just a half-hour drive from the city. The 400 kilometre square foot park is filled with sheltered bays, rugged rocky shores, and rolling forests. With over 50 kilometres of trails, you can cross-country ski or snowshoe across Terra Nova National Park, and spot lynx and moose along your way. The national park also boasts plenty of ice fishing opportunities, so bring your fishing rod for a chance to catch a good-sized trout. With all this and more, a trip to Terra Nova National Park is definitely a staple thing to do in Clarenville.
Explore the attractions in Clarenville, Newfoundland
If winter sports aren’t necessarily your cup of tea, there’s no need to worry — Clarenville has a number of attractions well-worth the visit. Located across from the Town Hall, on Pleasant Street, the War Memorial pays homage to those who bravely served for our country. From there, hop into the car and head to the U.S.A.F. RB-36 plane crash site near Burgoynes Cove. The 2.3 kilometre out and back trail takes you to the top of a 800 foot mountain to see the destructed aircraft that flew into it in 1953 during a Cold War exercise. The hike is a little strenuous, but there are plenty of benches along the way. At the top, you’ll find a pleasant view and a memorial for the late passengers.
Or keep it simple with a drive throughout the region. You’ll stumble upon great views in every direction with the comfort (and warmth) of your car.
Special thanks to the staff at the Quality Hotel in Clarenville, NL for contributing to this piece.