Pinware River

The Pinware River carves a wild ribbon through southern Labrador's taiga, a remote waterway that rewards anglers, paddlers, and solitude-seekers with some of the most pristine wilderness in Newfoundland and Labrador. This dark, tannin-stained river flows from the Mealy Mountains to the Strait of Belle Isle, offering a true backcountry experience far from crowds.

Highlights & What to See

• World-class Atlantic salmon fishing – The Pinware is legendary for its large sea-run salmon; June to August is prime time, and catch-and-release is practiced widely.
• Canoeing and kayaking – Paddle the lower stretches for a multi-day trip past boreal forest, rocky outcrops, and occasional moose sightings; Class I–II rapids suit intermediate paddlers.
• Pinware River Provincial Park – A small, rustic campground near the mouth with basic amenities, ideal as a base for fishing or hiking the nearby coastal trails.
• Wildlife watching – Look for black bears, caribou, and bald eagles along the riverbanks; the estuary attracts seabirds and seals.
• L'Anse Amour National Historic Site – A short drive south, this archaeological site features a 7,500-year-old burial mound and a reconstructed Maritime Archaic dwelling.

Suggested Time to Spend

Allocate at least two to three days to fully appreciate the Pinware River. Anglers often stay a week, while paddlers can plan a 3–4 day trip from the upper reaches down to the coast. If you're short on time, a day trip from Red Bay or L'Anse-au-Loup lets you fish for a few hours or hike the shoreline. The best months are July and August when the weather is mild and the salmon are running.

Nearby Areas Worth Combining

• Red Bay – A UNESCO World Heritage site with Basque whaling stations and a superb interpretation centre, 40 minutes north by road.
• L'Anse-au-Loup – The closest service centre with accommodations, groceries, and fuel; also home to the Labrador Heritage Museum.
• Point Amour Lighthouse – Canada's tallest lighthouse, with a museum and stunning views of the Strait of Belle Isle, a 30-minute drive south.
• Battle Harbour – A restored 19th-century fishing village on an island, accessible by ferry from Mary's Harbour; a step back in time.
• Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve – A vast protected area with hiking, backcountry camping, and caribou herds; reachable by boat or floatplane from the coast.

Please check official sources for current details.