Welcome to Gander’s Gem of a Hike
Tucked just minutes outside Gander, the Lakeside Trail is a 7.1 km forest-and-lakeshore ramble that delivers solid scenery, a touch of elevation, and enough berries and birdsong to keep things interesting. It’s your classic “not too hard, not too easy” trail—ideal for a solid half-day adventure or a satisfying leg-stretcher on a road trip across Central Newfoundland.
Local Tip: It’s a point-to-point trail, so bring a friend with a second car or plan for a creative return trip (Uber, anyone? Just kidding—it’s Gander. Make a plan.)
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Distance: 7.1 km (one way)
Difficulty: Moderate – expect some steep climbs and uneven ground
Elevation Gain: Around 160m total
Time: 2–3 hours (depending on snack breaks and photo ops)
Trail Type: Point to point – shuttle recommended unless you’re doubling back
Best For: Hikers who love lake views, forest vibes, and a side of local history
Trailheads & Parking:
- Tourist Chalet Trailhead – across from Mary Brown’s on the TCH
- Thomas Howe Demonstration Forest – includes the Edgar Baird Trail
- Silent Witness Memorial Site – Gander Lake viewpoint and moving tribute
What to Expect on the Trail
Start anywhere along the three access points and you’re in for:
- Lush boreal forest with ferns, moss, and plenty of berries in season (BYO berry ID guide).
- Trailside streams and babbling brooks that make your hike feel like a spa day for your ears.
- Wildlife sightings (moose, rabbits, and birds galore). Just give the moose lots of space—they’re big fans of personal boundaries.
- A challenging climb near the pump house—yes, it’s steep. Yes, your legs will notice.
- A well-marked route with signage and trail tape to keep you from wandering off like a lost tourist in Costco.
- Benches where you can catch your breath, have a snack, or launch a full-blown wilderness lunch break/boil-up.
Wear real hiking boots—mud and roots are part of the charm—and bring water. The views don’t refill bottles.
Starting Points Explained
- Tourist Chalet Trailhead (TCH)
Across from Mary Brown’s—fuel up on taters and gravy after your hike. - Thomas Howe Demonstration Forest
Take the Edgar Baird Trail to connect in. This forest area doubles as a cool intro to Newfoundland’s sustainable forestry practices (aka trees with purpose). - Silent Witness Memorial Site
This solemn and beautiful spot honors the victims of the 1985 Arrow Air disaster. Worth a moment of reflection before hitting the trail.
Why This Trail Is Special
This isn’t just any ol’ trail hacked through the woods. The Lakeside Trail was built with serious heart—and a strong sense of environmental responsibility. When they cleared the path, they used electric chainsaws only to protect the Gander Lake watershed. No gas. No oil. No nonsense.
The trail meanders through protected watershed land, which supplies Gander with its drinking water. So yeah, this isn’t just a pretty hike—it’s part of a bigger effort to keep nature (and your tap water) clean.
Community Spirit Built This Trail
The Lakeside Trail is the result of a community that said, “Let’s make something awesome.” And then did. Since 2015, volunteers and town staff have worked through red tape (liability, Crown Lands, the Airport Authority—you name it) to create this scenic and sustainable trail system.
It now connects the Tourist Chalet to Silent Witness, and plans are underway to extend it all the way to Little Harbour. What started as a big idea is now one of Gander’s most rewarding outdoor experiences.
More Things to Do in Gander
Don’t just hike and run—there’s more to Gander than you might think:
- Visit the Gander International Airport, where the vintage International Lounge feels like stepping onto a Pan Am flight in the 1960s.
- See “Come From Away” at the Arts and Culture Centre—yes, it will make you cry.
- Eat well at Rosie’s, The Gander Breadbox, Union East, and more.
- Head North to explore Twillingate or look for Icebergs – 4 Day Iceberg Hunting Itinerary
Stay the weekend, soak in the local charm, and keep exploring.
Looking for more Newfoundland travel tips and inspiration? Check out these other posts:
Share the Love
Join the Facebook group Lakeside Trail – Gander NL for trail updates, gorgeous pics, and insider tips from other hikers. Got questions? The admins are friendly and fast.
Final Pro Tip
This trail’s got history, heart, and just enough challenge to make your post-hike sandwich taste better. Grab a friend, a car (or two), and get out there.
Happy hiking—and don’t forget to pack the snacks.
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