Driving the Trans-Labrador Highway: Complete Road Trip Guide

The Trans-Labrador Highway is one of Canada’s most remote and adventurous road trips. While the highway is now fully paved, it still traverses vast stretches of wilderness where cellular service is limited, and communities can be hundreds of kilometres apart.

With the road finally paved from end to end, we decided it was the perfect time to explore Labrador. Travelling from one community to the next, we drove the entire Trans-Labrador Highway. We discovered rugged coastlines, historic fishing villages, endless forests, and some of the most remote landscapes in eastern Canada.

We completed the journey in a campervan and found plenty of places to spend the night, from scenic waterfront pullouts and quiet rest areas to campgrounds and informal overnight spots. If you’re planning a Trans-Labrador Highway road trip, this guide covers everything you need to know, including attractions, road conditions, fuel stops, camping, and travel tips.

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Quick Facts about the Trans-Labrador Highway

Distance	~1,200 km
Time Needed	3-7 days
Road Conditions	Fully paved
Start Point	Blanc-Sablon
End Point	Labrador City
Best Time to Visit	June to September
Cell Service	Limited
Fuel Availability	Available but far apart
Camping	Yes
Wildlife	Moose, black bears, caribou

How long is the Trans-Labrador Highway?

The Trans-Labrador Highway is 1100 kilometres long, starting or ending at either end, near the Labrador-Québec border near L’Anse au Clair in Coastal Labrador or near Labrador City in northern Labrador.

The Trans-Labrador Highway consists of two highways: the 500 and the 510. Highway 510 goes from L’Anse au Clair to Happy Valley-Goose Bay, where kilometre markers go up for the next 600 kilometres.

From Happy Valley-Goose Bay, the Trans-Labrador Highway continues on the 500 to Labrador City for 500 kilometres, with the markers going down. Hence, Happy Valley-Goose Bay is roughly the middle of the trip.

Road Conditions on the Trans-Labrador Highway

The entire Trans-Labrador Highway is now paved, making it far more accessible than before. Most passenger cars, campervans, RVs, and motorcycles can comfortably travel the highway during the summer months.

That said, this remains a remote northern road, and drivers should still be prepared for challenging conditions in some sections.

Frost Heaves

Frost heaves are one of the biggest hazards on the Trans-Labrador Highway. The region’s harsh winters and freeze-thaw cycles can cause sections of pavement to rise and fall unexpectedly.

Some frost heaves are marked with warning signs, but not all of them. Reduce your speed when signs are posted and stay alert, especially if the road surface appears uneven.

Weather Considerations

The weather in Labrador can change quickly. Dense fog, heavy rain, strong winds, and low clouds are common throughout the driving season.

Coastal sections of the route can experience cool temperatures even in midsummer. Rain can reduce visibility and make wildlife more difficult to spot along the roadside.

Check the forecast and be prepared for rapidly changing conditions.

My Advice

Having driven the Trans-Labrador Highway myself, I found the road to be in generally good condition. However, I quickly learned that staying alert is essential. 

The highway is much easier to drive than its reputation suggests, but it still demands respect due to its remoteness and changing conditions.

Fuel Stops on the Trans-Labrador Highway

Location	Fuel
Blanc-Sablon	Yes
L’Anse-au-Clair	Yes
Red Bay	Yes
Port Hope Simpson	Yes
Mary’s Harbour	Yes
Happy Valley-Goose Bay	Yes
Churchill Falls	Yes
Labrador City	Yes

Fuel Tips for Driving the Trans-Labrador Highway

Fuel is available in communities along the Trans-Labrador Highway, but services can be hundreds of kilometres apart. Careful planning will help ensure you don’t run into trouble in this remote region.

A good rule of thumb is never to pass a gas station. While fuel stops are generally reliable, unexpected detours or road construction can change travel plans unexpectedly.

Some travellers also choose to carry a small approved fuel container for added peace of mind. While most vehicles can comfortably complete the route between fuel stops, having a fuel reserve can provide extra reassurance when travelling through such a remote area.

Remember that gas station hours can vary, especially in smaller communities. Some stations may have reduced hours, so be flexible. It is better to wait a few hours for the gas station to open than risk running out of gas on your way to the next stop. They might also not be open 7 days a week, as in cities. You can expect services to be closed on Sundays in small communities. 

With a little planning, fuel availability is rarely an issue, but it’s always better to top up early rather than risk running low in one of Canada’s most remote regions.

Camping on the Trans-Labrador Highway

You’ll find campgrounds throughout Labrador that provide convenient places to spend the night while exploring this remote region.

Best Campgrounds on the Trans-Labrador Highway

Here are some of the most popular camping options along the route:

• Pinware River Provincial Park – Located near the Labrador-Québec border, this campground offers spacious sites with easy access to the Pinware River.
• Long Point Provincial Park – Located near Port Hope Simpson, a good place to stay for travellers making their way north along the Labrador coast.
• Gosling Lake Campground – The campground is just outside Happy Valley-Goose Bay, on the way to North West River, and is perfect for exploring both towns. 

Crown Land Camping

For those seeking solitude, Crown land camping is possible in many parts of Labrador. One of the advantages of travelling the Trans-Labrador Highway is the abundance of remote locations where you can enjoy a quiet night in nature.

If you choose to camp on Crown land, always verify local regulations and ensure you are camping on public land where overnight stays are permitted.

Practice Leave No Trace

Labrador’s wilderness is one of its greatest assets. Help keep it that way by following Leave No Trace principles.

• Pack out all garbage.
• Camp on durable surfaces whenever possible.
• Minimize campfire impacts.
• Respect wildlife and other visitors.
• Leave campsites cleaner than you found them.

Van Life on the Trans-Labrador Highway

The Trans-Labrador Highway is an excellent road trip for van lifers. There are campgrounds throughout the region, but you’ll also find several convenient places to spend the night while travelling between communities.

Red Bay

We spent a night at the Tracy Hill Stairs parking lot overlooking Red Bay. The parking area is large, relatively level, and offers beautiful views of the bay and the town below. There is plenty of room to turn around, making it suitable for vans and smaller RVs.

Bridge Rest Area in Churchill Falls

One of our overnight stops was the rest area located on the west side of the bridge just outside Churchill Falls. The parking lot is spacious, relatively level, and surprisingly quiet, making it a comfortable place to spend the night.

Wabush Lake in Labrador City

Near Wabush Lake, we camped on a sandy shore overlooking the water. While traffic from the nearby highway and the occasional passing train can create some noise, the views more than make up for it. Waking up to the lake and the surrounding hills was one of the most memorable overnight stops of the trip.

Keep in Mind

Always respect local regulations, don’t block access roads, and leave overnight spots cleaner than you found them.

What to Pack for the Trans-Labrador Highway

The Trans-Labrador Highway is far more accessible today than it once was, but it is still remote. Services are limited between communities, cell coverage is often nonexistent, and help may be hours away. 

Packing a few essential items can make your journey safer and more enjoyable:

• Spare tire and tire repair kit
• Fuel container
• Offline maps
• Satellite communicator
• Emergency food and extra water
• First aid kit
• Rain gear and warm clothes
• Bug spray

My Advice

Although the Trans-Labrador Highway is fully paved, it is still a remote adventure. Being prepared with a few extra supplies will give you peace of mind and allow you to enjoy the journey without worrying about unexpected situations.

6-Day Trans-Labrador Highway Itinerary

Day 1

Blanc-Sablon → L’Anse-Amour• Red Bay

Driving distance: 80 km (1 hour)

Stops along the way:

• Visit the Gateway to Labrador Visitor Center in L’Anse au Clair
• Hike part of the Labrador Pioneer Footpath in L’Anse au Clair
• Visit the Maritime Archaic Burial Mound National Historic Site of Canada in L’Anse Amour
• Visit the Point Amour Lighthouse Provincial Historic Site in L’Anse Amour

Day 2

Red Bay → Mary’s Harbour 

Driving distance: 90 km (1 hour)

• Visit Parks Canada’s Red Bay National Historic Site in Red Bay
• Visit the Saddle Island Interpretive Center in Red Bay
• Hike the Tracy Hill Trail in Red Bay
• Shop at The Great Caribou Studio in Mary’s Harbour
• Hike the Gin Cove Walking Trail or the White Water Falls Trail in Mary’s Harbour

Day 3

Mary’s Harbour → Happy Valley-Goose Bay 

Driving distance: 455 km (5 hours)

Tip: Fuel up in Port Hope Simpson. It is the last service station until Happy Valley-Goose Bay.

 Day 4

Happy Valley-Goose Bay → North West River

• Visit the Labrador Military Museum in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. 
• Hike in the Birch Island Conservation Area in Happy Valley-Goose Bay.
• Visit the Labrador Heritage Society Museum in North West River (formerly a Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading post).
• Visit the North West River Interpretation Centre in North West River.
• Hike the Lookout Trails from the North West River Interpretation Center
• Stop by the Sunday Hill Lookout

Day 5

Happy Valley-Goose Bay → Churchill Falls

Driving distance: 290 km (3 hours)

• Tour the Churchill Falls Generating Station.
• Hike the Bowdoin Canyon Nature Trail (to the Churchill Falls).

Day 6

Churchill Falls → Labrador City

Driving distance: 250 km (3 hours)

• Visit the Gateway Labrador Information Center

• Hike Crystal Falls Trail
• Explore the Jean Lake Walking Trail or the Smoky Mountains Recreational Area

Not ready for the adventure to end? Continue your journey from Labrador City into Fermont, Québec, and follow Route 389 south to Baie-Comeau. This remote highway offers even more spectacular scenery, wilderness camping, hiking opportunities, and is the perfect extension to your Trans-Labrador Highway journey.

Things to Do in Labrador

What to Do in L’Anse-Amour

Before you leave the southern coast of Labrador, take some time to explore these attractions in L’Anse-Amour.

• Point Amour Lighthouse – The tallest lighthouse in Atlantic Canada offers panoramic views of the Labrador coast and guided tours during the summer.
• Maritime Archaic Burial Mound National Historic Site of Canada – One of the oldest known burial sites in North America, dating back more than 7,000 years.

What to Do in Red Bay

Red Bay is one of the most important historic stops along the Trans-Labrador Highway and is well worth spending a few hours exploring.

• Red Bay National Historic Site – Learn about the Basque whalers who operated here during the 16th century.
• Basque Whaling Interpretation Centre – Discover exhibits and artifacts related to Labrador’s whaling History.
• Saddle Island – Take a boat tour to view archaeological remains and historic whaling sites.
• Right Whale Exhibit Museum – The Right Whale Exhibit Museum has everything you need to know about whales and their protection. 
• Tracy Hill – Hike up the Tracy Hill Trail. You will climb the 689 steps to the top of the hill, where incredible views of the bay and the town await hikers.

What to Do in Mary’s Harbour

Mary’s Harbour is a small community with dirt roads full of potholes, ensuring no one exceeds the 30 km/h speed limit. However, it is a charming town with sympathetic residents that will heartily welcome you.

• Battle Harbour National Historic District – This tiny island off the coast of Labrador, where time stood still, has charmed visitors for years. Step back in time with a visit to Battle Harbour and experience life as it was when settlers first came to the island.
• Hike Gin Cove Walking Trail – An easy 20-minute hike with an old boardwalk and wooden stairs leading to the ocean. 
• The White Water Falls Trail – An easy 2.5-kilometre hike that brings hikers to waterfalls
• Shop at The Great Caribou Studio –  An excellent place to stop for good coffee and pastries. In addition, they have arts and crafts from local artists on display and for sale.

What to Do in Happy Valley-Goose Bay

Happy Valley-Goose Bay is the Heart of Labrador. It is roughly midway through our road trip across Labrador.

• The Labrador Military Museum – Its exhibits span WWII to tell the story of 5 Wing Goose Bay and Labrador’s military History.
• Hike in the Birch Island Conservation Area –  A beautiful, small park with boardwalk trails through wooded and bog areas. Also, picnic tables are on the premises. 
• Hike Peace Rock and Scenic Waterfalls – An easy 1-kilometre hike full of beautiful sights.

What to Do in North West River

A road trip to Labrador is not complete without a stop at North West River. It is the oldest Labrador community, founded in 1743 by fur trader Louis Fornel. It borders Melville Lake and Grand Lake (or Churchill River). On the opposite shore is the First-Nation Community, Sheshatshiu.

• Visit the Labrador Heritage Society Museum – The original building by the Hudson’s Bay Company for fur trading. They have an impressive collection of artifacts, pictures and documents from the last two hundred years.
• Visit the North West River Interpretation Centre – The exhibits depict the lives of the native Innu and Innuit, as well as the settlers in the area.
• Hike the Lookout Trails – From the North West River Interpretation Center, the trailhead is at the right end of the parking lot.
• Stop by the Sunday Hill Lookout – A beautiful view of the town and the immensity of Melville Lake with the Mealy Mountains in the distance. Not only does the area have campfire rings and a picnic table, but it also has a pit toilet.

What to Do in Churchill Falls

Churchill Falls is a company-owned town. As you drive through the city, it is very peculiar; you will see rows upon rows of identical square houses of the same light colour. The only difference is the cars parked in the driveways.

• The Churchill Falls Generating Station – A significant hydroelectric power centre. Tours are available, but reservations are required.
• Hike the Bowdoin Canyon Nature Trail – An easy hike to the Churchill Falls viewpoint. The path is wide and barely rugged. The elevation is minimal, but there are a few ups and downs.

What to Do in Labrador City

Labrador City is the last stop on our Labrador road trip and the last city driving west on the Trans-Labrador Highway. It is the largest city in Labrador and is known for its mining industry.

• Visit the Gateway Labrador Information Center – Interesting exhibits on the History of the city and Labrador.
• Hike the Crystal Falls Trail – This short, easy trail leads to a scenic waterfall tucked away in the forest, making it a great stop for a quick hike.
• Explore the Jean Lake Walking Trail – Follow the lakeside trail for beautiful views of Jean Lake and enjoy the natural surroundings close to town.
• Hike in the Smokey Mountains Recreational Area – Discover a network of hiking trails that climb above the tree line and offer panoramic views of Labrador’s rugged wilderness and countless lakes.

Where to Stay in Labrador

While I travelled the Trans-Labrador Highway in a campervan, there are also several comfortable hotels, cabins, and lodges along the route for those who prefer a few more amenities. Here are some accommodations to consider:

Red Bay

• Whaler’s Station Cabins – unique accommodations by the ocean

Port Hope Simpson

• Alexis Hotel – excellent location with stunning views of the Alexis Bay

Happy Valley-Goose Bay

• Emma’s Suites – a family-owned business offering comfortable and modern accommodations

Labrador City

• Two Seasons Inn – great hospitality, comfortable rooms and modern amenities

Wildlife on the Trans-Labrador Highway

One of the highlights of driving the Trans-Labrador Highway is the opportunity to see wildlife in its natural habitat. 

Labrador’s forests, wetlands, rivers, and tundra are home to abundant wildlife, and sightings are common throughout the journey.

• Moose
• Black bear
• Woodland caribou
• Foxes
• Bald eagles

Wildlife Safety While Driving

Wildlife activity is highest at dawn and dusk, making these the most dangerous times to be on the road. Reduced light levels make it harder to spot animals, and many species are most active during these hours.

Plan your driving to avoid long stretches of highway around sunrise and sunset. When driving during these times, reduce your speed and scan both sides of the road carefully.

Collision Risk

Wildlife collisions are a serious concern throughout Labrador. Moose pose the greatest risk due to their size and tendency to step onto the roadway without warning.

Always obey speed limits and remain attentive while driving. Slowing down gives you more time to react if an animal suddenly appears.

Wildlife Photography Tips

Safety should always come first:

• If you spot an animal, pull completely off the road in a safe location before stopping.
• Never block traffic or approach wildlife on foot. 
• A telephoto lens or zoom camera will allow you to capture great photos while keeping a respectful distance.
• Patience often pays off. Some of the best wildlife encounters happen when you take your time rather than rushing to the next destination.

During my drive, wildlife sightings were one of the highlights of the trip. Whether it was spotting a moose along a remote stretch of highway or watching a bald eagle soar overhead, these encounters added to the sense of adventure that makes the Trans-Labrador Highway such a memorable road trip.

Time zones on the Trans-Labrador Highway 

You will go through two time zones as you drive the Trans-Labrador Highway. You will be on Newfoundland Standard Time from L’Anse-au-Clair to Black Trickle. Watch for the highway sign indicating when to set your watch back. The rest of Labrador is on Atlantic Standard Time.

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Final Thoughts on Driving the Trans-Labrador Highway

Twenty kilometres from Labrador City is Québec’s border, where this road trip in Labrador ends, but other adventures begin in Fermont, Québec, on route 389 to Baie-Comeau. 

Or if you would rather continue exploring Atlantic Canada, consider combining this route with a Newfoundland road trip. The ferry connections between Labrador and Newfoundland make it easy to continue adventuring. For adventurous travellers looking to experience Canada’s wild side, the Trans-Labrador Highway deserves a place on your road trip bucket list.