How Long Does It Take to Travel to Northern Newfoundland?
Northern Newfoundland is a remote and breathtaking destination, home to stunning coastal landscapes, rich history, and incredible outdoor adventures. Whether you're planning a visit to Northeast Secret Path, L’Anse aux Meadows, St. Anthony, or Gros Morne National Park, getting here is part of the adventure.
Flying to Northern Newfoundland
The fastest way to reach Northern Newfoundland is by air. The two main airports servicing the region are:
Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF) – Located approximately 4–4.5 hours from Conche or Roddickton-Bide Arm, Deer Lake serves as the primary gateway to the Great Northern Peninsula.
St. Anthony Airport (YAY) – Just 81 km from Roddickton-Bide Arm, this regional airport connects travelers through St. John’s, NL, and Blanc Sablon, QC.
Flight Times to Newfoundland
If you're flying from outside the province, here’s how long it takes to reach Newfoundland’s major airports:
New York City – Montreal: 1.5 hrs
New York City – Toronto: 2 hrs
London – Montreal: 7 hrs
London – Toronto: 8 hrs
Montreal – Deer Lake: 2.5 hrs
Toronto – Deer Lake: 2.5 hrs
Once you arrive at Deer Lake or St. Anthony, you can continue your journey by rental car or shuttle.
Car Rentals at Deer Lake & St. Anthony Airports
For those who prefer the freedom of driving, rental cars are available at both airports:
Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF)
Avis Car and Truck Rental – 709-635-5010
Budget Car and Truck Rental – 709-635-3211
Enterprise Rent-A-Car – 709-635-4667
National Car and Truck Rental – 709-635-3282
Hertz Car Rental – 709-635-8211
St. Anthony Airport (YAY)
National Car Rental – 709-454-8522
Driving to Northern Newfoundland
If you’re traveling by car, the journey to Northern Newfoundland takes you along some of the province’s most scenic routes.
From Deer Lake
Take Route 430 (The Viking Trail) north along the coast.
Turn onto Route 432 (Grenfell Drive) to reach Roddickton-Bide Arm or Main Brook.
Continue on Route 433 to access Englee and Conche.
Approximate Drive Times:
Deer Lake to Conche: 4.5 hours
St. Anthony to Main Brook: 1 hour (82 km)
Port aux Basques to Main Brook: 6–7 hours
Taking the Ferry to Newfoundland
For those driving from mainland Canada, Marine Atlantic operates a year-round ferry service between North Sydney, Nova Scotia, and Port aux Basques, Newfoundland. Reservations are required:
In summer, another ferry connects Newfoundland to Quebec-Labrador:
St. Barbe – Blanc Sablon Ferry – This route links Newfoundland’s Viking Trail to Quebec-Labrador, with a crossing time of 80 minutes.
Schedule & bookings: www.tw.gov.nl.ca/ferryservices
Shuttle & Ground Transportation
Many lodges and tour operators in Northern Newfoundland provide airport pickup and shuttle services, so be sure to check with your accommodation provider.
Your Journey Begins Here
Whether you choose to fly, drive, or take the ferry, getting to Northern Newfoundland is an adventure in itself. Once you arrive, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural history, and endless outdoor activities.