From hydro cuts to rail trails, the Rock has a lot to offer the dual sport or Adv rider

Being a Newfoundland expat, these words always echo in my mind: “You never know how good you have it, until you don’t.” 

I have been a motorcycle enthusiast my entire life and I have been fortunate enough to travel throughout North America on some of the most scenic byways and highways that Canada and the Continental U.S. have to offer. Newfoundland has breathtaking landscapes, beckoning adventure aficionados to explore hidden gems. One of the most exhilarating ways to experience the Island’s natural beauty is by embarking on a journey along the gravel roads and trails on an adventure motorcycle. 

During the summer months, the rugged terrain, the charm of gravel roads, the allure of the great outdoors, and the weather all merge to create an unforgettable experience. The island’s new power transmission line on the Northern Peninsula, Buchans to the Burgeo Highway and the former Newfoundland railway bed all make for amazing day rides or overnight excursions. 

The Thrill of Adventure

Adventure motorcycling transcends traditional travel; it’s about the journey itself as much as the destination. The thrill of navigating gravel roads and trails on an adventure motorcycle adds an element to the excitement and exploration to the experience. With its diverse landscapes ranging from rolling hills and plateaus to rugged coastline, the island of Newfoundland provides the backdrop for this adventure. 

The relatively new Muskrat Falls power transmission line, located on the Northern Peninsula, is a great addition to the province’s adventure motorcycling landscape. At 180 km in length, the well-constructed gravel road with bridges and switchbacks follows the path of the hydroelectric transmission line. The rider is given a view of arguably one of the most beautiful parts of the island: the Long Range Mountains. 

For a section, the road traverses the eastern border of Gros Morne National Park and remains basically in the middle of the Great Northern Peninsula — the northernmost reach of the Appalachian Mountains — for many kilometres before returning the rider to the Gulf of St. Lawrence in the north and Hampton Junction to the south. 

You will be treated to incredible views of the ocean, too many waterfalls and ponds to count and, of course, wildlife, including moose and caribou. The gravel road surface challenges riders, enhancing their skills and making the many twists and turns an adrenaline-filled encounter. 

Forest Access Roads

The interior of the island has many forestry access roads that are available to the off-road rider. Trips to Granite and Victoria Lakes are one-way trips…