Wedged between the communities of Bartlett’s Harbour and Castor River North is White Point. It’a natural beauty offers an incredible nature and walking experience as you crest along the coastline and hug the forest on your journey.
The Great Northern Peninsula has an impressive network of walking trails and one of the newest additions is located off Route 430 at the Castor River North and Bartlett’s Harbour turnout. As you approach the community of Bartlett’s Harbour on the left you will see a boat with moose antlers, a number of picnic tables, benches and other features that mark the beginning of the White Point Trail. There isn’t any designated parking at this current time, but there is no issue with parking at roadside and enjoying the serene and picturesque views along this more than 2 KM walking trail return. Trail rating: Easy.
As you walk the crushed stone pathway you immediately have to stop to view the inukshuk, teepee and other pieces that have a dedication to our indigenous people, who have been in the region for more than 5,000 years. The community of Bartlett’s Harbour has a large percentage of the population that identify as aboriginal.
In mid-August, I took a few minutes to go off Route 430 (Viking Trail) to take the White Point trail. The results were these pristine images of forests, bodies of water and I truly felt I was in a very special place, connected deeply with Mother Nature. There are ample rest areas, including the very popular green tree chair. I love the creativity and innovation that exist with residents of our local communities. All of this adds to the uniqueness of our home and special feeling one gets when visiting.
It was quite exciting to see what the local development association and the local employees had achieved through a Job Creation Partnership with the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador. These partnerships created something not only for the local residents to enjoy on a daily basis but for those in the region and those visiting to truly appreciate this corner of the world. The community of Bartlett’s Harbour and the Development Association have a plan to expand and connect the two neightbouring communities through various phases of trail development. In October, I returned to the trail and got to check out the expansion closer to the point. On my journey this time, I even saw a moose. The trail was still in progress but this phase has since been completed. I look forward to returning in the 2021 hiking season!
The impressive Highlands of St. John are in view and this really is a remarkable place to have a picnic, pick some berries, read a book or just truly enjoy the awe inspiring view. Bartlett’s Harbour and the expanded White Point Trail is one of those places well worth turning off and experiencing for yourself the beauty that is the Great Northern Peninsula.
Learn more about the Great Northern Peninsula’s trails by clicking here.
Live Rural NL –
Christopher Mitchelmore
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