Tag: cape spear

Posted by: davepowers02 | on September 24, 2025

Discover Cape Spear: Canada’s Easternmost Point

Location: Cape Spear is a headland on the Avalon Peninsula, about 12 km (or ~20 minutes drive) from downtown St. John’s, Newfoundland.
Geographic Significance: It is the most easterly point of land in Canada (not counting Greenland), and often called the most easterly point in North America.
Elevation & Terrain: The land here rises to about 75 meters above sea level and is a rugged promontory of very old (Precambrian) rock. The vegetation is thin—bogs, rocky outcrops, lichens, grasses, and moss predominate.

Lighthouse: The original lighthouse was built in 1836 and is the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland & Labrador. It has been restored to its circa-1839 appearance, including the lightkeeper’s residence.
Modern Light Tower: A newer concrete lighthouse/light tower structure was built in 1955, located nearby.
Military Significance: During World War II, Cape Spear was strategically important. A gun battery, bunkers, and other defensive works were installed to help protect convoys entering St. John’s harbour and to guard against submarine threats. Remnants of these installations remain as historical features.

Views: Spectacular coastal scenery—rocky cliffs, crashing waves, wide open Atlantic horizon. Because of its easterly position, it’s also one of the first places in North America to see the sunrise.
Wildlife: Opportunities to spot seabirds, whales, icebergs (in season), and other marine life.
Trails & Hiking: There are trails around the headlands, including parts of the East Coast Trail, boardwalks, nature paths, and lookouts.

Access & Facilities: The site is accessible year-round, but many visitor services (e.g. buildings, guided tours) are seasonal (roughly June to October).
How to Get There: Drive via Route 11 (“Cape Spear Drive”) from St. John’s. There’s parking, restrooms, picnic areas, viewpoints.
Safety Notes: Because of the ocean exposure, weather can be dramatic—fog, strong winds, rogue waves are possible. There are warning signs around dangerous edges and wet rocks.