Location: The end of Huntley Drive

Nestled in the heart of the Shoal Harbour Valley recreation area (Located at the end of Huntley Drive at the Shoal Harbour River Water Treatment Plant), the Pond Trail and Picnic Area stand as a shining example of grassroots community dedication. What was once an overlooked pit and old dump site on Crown land has been beautifully reclaimed by the Shoal Harbour Valley Cooperative’s local volunteers into a vibrant, scenic outdoor escape.

This inviting space seamlessly blends rugged natural beauty with accessible design, offering a peaceful retreat for a quick stroll or a starting point for a larger valley adventure.

The Walking Trail Loop

As seen from above, the heart of this phase is a meticulously crafted 300-metre loop trail that hugs the perimeter of a serene, dark-water pond.

The Path: Built with thousands of hours of volunteer sweat equity—using everything from shovels and wheelbarrows to heavy excavators—the trail is wide, level, and capped with a smooth layer of donated Class A stone. It offers an easy, accessible walk ideal for a casual stroll, a quick bike ride, or snowshoeing in the winter.

The Footbridge: On the lower right side of the pond, a beautiful, newly constructed wooden footbridge spans the water's outlet, connecting the path seamlessly and providing a perfect vantage point to look down into the running stream.

The Landscape: The trail winds through a lush, vibrant canopy of young birch and evergreen trees, bringing visitors right to the water's edge while preserving the natural wetland fringe.

The Picnic & Gathering Area

Strategically positioned at the base of the loop (foreground) is a newly cleared, welcoming picnic and rest area.

A Place to Rest: This cleared dirt look-out features a rustic bench perfectly positioned to take in the panoramic view of the entire pond. It serves as the ideal spot for families to enjoy a packed lunch, lace up skates in the winter, or simply sit back and listen to the surrounding wilderness.

Gateway to the Valley

The Pond Trail is just the beginning. It acts as the primary gateway to a massive, multi-phase recreational network:

To the North: Just 100 metres away lies the newly illuminated sliding hill and fire pit area.

To the Lookouts: The pond loop connects directly to a rugged 2 km hiking trail that climbs past the sliding hill to a breathtaking lookout overlooking the lower Shoal Harbour Valley and the estuary.

To the Wilderness: It links into a grander vision of a 15 km interconnected river trail system protected by a newly expanded 300-metre forestry non-cutting zone.

Whether you are looking for a quiet morning coffee by the water, a safe place to take the kids for a walk, or the starting point for an afternoon hike, the Pond Trail and Picnic Area is a testament to what a community can achieve when they decide to protect and shape their own backyard.

Location: Marine Drive 

The Shoreline Park is one of Clarenville’s most scenic gems, offering a tranquil waterfront escape right on the edge of Random Sound. Whether you are stopping by for a peaceful morning coffee or winding down after a day of exploring the Bonavista Peninsula, it’s the perfect spot to pause and take in the view.

A Walk Through History

The park beautifully blends natural beauty with local heritage. As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll find:

The Gazebo: A beautiful, covered pavilion perfect for relaxing out of the sun.

The Storyboard Kiosk: A six-panel exhibit detailing the fascinating history of Clarenville and Shoal Harbour from the 1800s to the present.

Decorative Railings: Intricate perimeter railings that elegantly detail the area's rich past.

Modern Convenience Meets Coastal Charm

With unobstructed, panoramic vistas, Shoreline Park is a favourite vantage point for photography, birdwatching, or simply watching the tide roll in. Designed with modern travellers in mind, the park features an upgraded parking area that comfortably accommodates daytime stops for small RVs and camper vans.

Visitor Tip: Pack a lunch! The park’s accessible amenities and serene backdrop make it one of the best quick-picnic spots in town.

Let me know if you’d like to tweak the tone or adjust the word count to fit your webpage layout perfectly!

Location: Intersection of Memorial Drive and Tilley's Road 

Where urban convenience meets raw coastal beauty, the final cascading falls of the Lower Shoal Harbour River offer one of Clarenville’s most refreshing natural spectacles. Located right at the edge of the community, this energetic waterway acts as a dramatic threshold where rushing freshwater tumbles over rocky bedrock before spilling into the Northwest Arm of Random Sound.

For visitors and locals looking to experience the falls, the adventure begins at the Memorial Drive bridge trail head. This serves as the gateway to the Rotary Trail, a popular 5-kilometre loop that hugs the riverbank. The initial stretch of the easy trail rewards walkers with close-up views and the soothing acoustics of the rushing water.

Historically, this powerful river system was the lifeblood for early 19th-century loggers, and today it remains a thriving hotspot for local anglers casting for trout. Whether you are capturing photos of the mist rising off the gorge, watching the tidal mixing zone where the river meets the sea, or starting a longer trek into the deep boreal forest toward Dark Hole Brook, these falls provide a stunning, easily accessible slice of classic Newfoundland wilderness right in town.

Location: Cormack Drive 

Tucked away on Cormack Drive, right next to the historic cable station, the TAT-1 (Transatlantic No. 1) Monument commemorates a monumental chapter in global communications history. It stands as a proud reminder of the day Clarenville became the vital link connecting North America to Europe.  On June 22, 1955, the town declared a municipal holiday as the cable ship HMTS Monarch pulled the shore-end of the world's first transatlantic telephone cable into the sheltered waters of Random Sound. Chosen for its deep-water access and protection from open-ocean storms, Clarenville officially entered the global spotlight. 

On September 25, 1956, the historic inaugural call went live, instantly replacing unreliable radio-telephone links with a crystal-clear, underwater voice connection between London, Ottawa, and Washington.  The permanent monument was erected to mark the 50th anniversary of this incredible engineering feat. Today, it serves as a fascinating stop for tech enthusiasts and history buffs alike.  

Did You Know? The TAT-1 cable was so secure and reliable that it eventually carried the famous "Hotline" teleprinter link between Washington and Moscow during the height of the Cold War.  If you are exploring Clarenville's heritage, a visit to this quiet landmark offers a profound look at how a small Newfoundland town helped shrink the globe.

Location: 100 Tilley Road (located just off the Trans-Canada Highway / Route 1 exit into town)

Named in honour of a beloved community volunteer and local historian, Elizabeth Swan Park is the vibrant heart of Clarenville’s outdoor community life. Tucked into a serene, forested setting off the Trans-Canada Highway, this sprawling park beautifully bridges active recreation with tranquil natural spaces.

For families and sports enthusiasts, the park is an unparalleled hub. It features top-tier facilities, including a baseball field, beach volleyball courts, a modern playground, and a popular splash pad to cool off during summer days. At the center sits the multi-purpose chalet, which serves as a cozy base for community events, family gatherings, and seasonal celebrations.

Beyond the structured courts, the park acts as the premier gateway to Clarenville’s renowned trail network. From here, walkers, runners, and nature lovers can seamlessly connect to the scenic Rotary Trail or begin the rewarding trek up to the Bare Mountain Lookout. In the winter months, the park transforms into a snowy wonderland, welcoming cross-country skiers and snowshoers to explore its quiet, snow-dusted canopies. Whether you are aiming for a full afternoon of active play or a peaceful woodland stroll, Elizabeth Swan Park offers a welcoming sanctuary for all ages.

Location: Stretching along Marine Drive & Balbo Drive, easily accessed via Shoreline Park or the Random Sound shoreline

The Clarenville Waterfront is the scenic gateway where our town's industrious past seamlessly blends with modern coastal living. Stretching along the sheltered waters of Random Sound, this historic shoreline has evolved from a bustling hub of early shipbuilding and railway commerce into a vibrant destination for both locals and travellers.

A walk along the waterfront offers a rich tapestry of sights and experiences. You can stroll through the beautifully manicured grounds of Shoreline Park, stand where global communications history was made near the TAT-1 cable landing site, or simply relax on a bench to watch the local fishing boats glide past. The panoramic views across the Sound provide an ever-changing backdrop of rolling hills, soaring eagles, and pristine marine beauty.

With convenient access to local shops, cafes, and accessible public spaces, the waterfront serves as the perfect starting point for any town exploration. Whether you are catching a spectacular sunrise over the water, launching a kayak, or enjoying a brisk evening stroll along the coastline, the waterfront truly captures the active, maritime heart of Clarenville.

Location: Marine Drive (at the intersection of the T’Railway trail crossing, just down from the former station yard)

The Clarenville Railway Exhibit is a proud tribute to the legendary Newfoundland Railway and the profound impact the railway had on shaping our community. Located on the historic grounds of the former Newfoundland Railway station yard, this outdoor heritage site stands as a powerful reminder of the era when Clarenville served as a crucial regional hub and maintenance center for the province's narrow-gauge rail system.

The centerpiece of the exhibit is the beautifully preserved, historic rolling stock. Visitors can get a close-up look at an authentic diesel-electric locomotive, a vintage passenger car, and a classic wooden caboose. Meticulously maintained, these artifacts offer a nostalgic window into the mid-20th century, capturing the stories of the generations of railway workers who kept the province moving.

Perfect for families, history buffs, and rail enthusiasts alike, the site features informative storyboard displays that chronicle the triumphs and challenges of running a railway across Newfoundland's rugged terrain. Situated right alongside the historic T’Railway—the trans-island rail line that has since been transformed into a spectacular multi-use recreational trail—the exhibit serves as the perfect starting point to explore Clarenville’s deep-rooted connection to the tracks.

Location: The end of Huntley Drive

Meandering alongside the clear, rushing waters of the Shoal Harbour River, this scenic trail begins at the town's water intake and offers one of Clarenville’s most refreshing and accessible woodland walks. As a vital segment of the town’s beloved Rotary Trail network, the path acts as a natural sanctuary where hikers can instantly escape the hustle of daily life and immerse themselves in a classic Newfoundland boreal canopy.

The well-maintained trail gently traces the riverbank, rewarding walkers with the soothing acoustics of cascading waters and a chance to spot local wildlife, from angling trout to overhead bald eagles. It provides a smooth, family-friendly trek that connects the lower tidal flats of the Northwest Arm up toward the dramatic river gorges and inland forested paths.

What truly sets this trail apart, however, is its peaceful rest stops. Spaced thoughtfully along the route are beautifully crafted memorial benches. Positioned at perfect vantage points overlooking the river's ripples and minor falls, these benches invite walkers to pause, sit back, and reflect. They offer a quiet space to absorb the natural beauty of the river system, making the trail not just a place for exercise, but a meaningful community space for quiet contemplation and comfort.

Location: TCH access to Power Plant Road

Hidden in the forest, the Lower Shoal Harbour River Dam and its adjacent natural waterfalls form one of Clarenville’s most captivating hidden treasures. This unique site beautifully merges early 20th-century history with raw, natural beauty, marking a spot where human ingenuity once harnessed the incredible power of the river.

The concrete dam structure, weathered over the decades, was originally built to help power Clarenville. Today, the dam creates a pristine, reflective upstream pool before the water breaches the spillway and joins the natural cascades downstream. Below the structure, the river tumbles vigorously over rugged bedrock formations, creating a series of rushing waterfalls that fill the gorge with a steady, thunderous roar and a refreshing mist.

Location: Situated along the Lower Shoal Harbour River segment of the Rotary Trail, beginning in Elizabeth Swan Park on Tilley's Road. 

A true highlight of the local trail system, the Lower Shoal Harbour Pedestrian Bridge is a beautiful engineering feature that seamlessly connects the winding paths of the Rotary Trail. Spanning the wide, rushing waters of the river, this sturdy wooden footbridge provides a safe, accessible, and elevated crossing point for hikers, runners, and nature lovers exploring the area's extensive trail network.

More than just a structural connection, the bridge serves as a spectacular, double-sided viewing platform. Standing over the middle of the river, walkers can look downstream to watch the freshwater mix into the tidal flats of the Northwest Arm, or look upstream to capture stunning photographs of the river carving its way through the dense boreal forest. It is an especially popular spot in the late summer and fall, offering a perfect bird's-eye view into the clear waters below to spot trout navigating the currents.

Location: Along the Shoal Harbour Causeway (Route 230-A), spanning the mouth of the Shoal Harbour River where it meets the Northwest Arm.

The Shoal Harbour Causeway Lookoff is a fantastic roadside vantage point that offers a stunning, wide-angle view of Clarenville's unique coastal geography. As the causeway crosses the tranquil waters where the Shoal Harbour River empties into the sea, this convenient pull-off provides the perfect excuse to pause, step out of the car, and take in the fresh saltwater air.

It is a favourite stop for a quick stretch, a bit of photography, or to simply watch the changing of the tides. Whether you are catching the brilliant colours of a Newfoundland sunrise reflecting off the calm morning water or watching the evening light settle over the hills, the Causeway Lookoff serves as a beautiful, effortlessly accessible introduction to the natural charm of the area.

Location: Gladney Street (strategically situated near local seniors' residences, Clarenville Middle School, and Clarenville High School).

A shining example of inclusivity and community spirit, the Age-Friendly Park is a beautifully designed multi-generational space that welcomes residents and visitors of all ages. Established as a flagship pilot project to promote healthy aging and social connection, this pristine park focuses entirely on accessibility, making it an easy and inviting destination for everyone from toddlers to seniors.

The park features smooth, fully wheelchair-accessible walking trails that wind through manicured green spaces, accented by comfortable park benches and a covered gazebo for resting in the shade. It is an active hub for recreation and community-led summer events, boasting a horseshoe pad, a fire pit, and even a winter tobogganing hill.

At the very heart of the park is a flourishing 33-bed Community Garden. This vibrant, raised-bed garden serves as a beautiful gathering place where local volunteers, youth groups, and green thumbs of all generations meet to plant, learn, and share their harvest. Whether you are arriving to attend an outdoor community event, tending to a garden plot, or just enjoying a peaceful afternoon stroll, the Age-Friendly Park stands as a heartwarming testament to Clarenville's inclusive, caring character.

Locations: Various neighborhoods across Clarenville and Shoal Harbour, including major hubs at Elizabeth Swan Park (Tilley's Road), Cormack Drive, Legion Road, Riverview Drive, and Balbo Drive.

Clarenville is a wonderful place for families to grow and play, boasting a well-maintained network of five distinct neighbourhood playgrounds. Designed with safety, accessibility, and inclusivity as top priorities, these community spaces provide children of all ages with a safe environment to stay active, develop motor skills, and make lifelong friends.

The crown jewel of the outdoor play spaces is the newly renovated Elizabeth Swan Playground on Tilley's Road, which features fully accessible play structures alongside the community splash pad. For families living in or exploring other sectors of the town, excellent neighbourhood parks are strategically placed to ensure outdoor fun is never more than a short walk away. From the Cormack Playground and Legion Road Playground (which sits near the local skateboard park) to the Riverview Playground and the Shoal Harbour Playground on Balbo Drive, each site offers unique climbing gear, slides, swings, and green spaces.

Location: Elizabeth Swan Park, 100 Tilley Road (situated right next to the main playground and chalet area)

When the summer sun warms up the region, the Clarenville Splash Pad becomes the town's ultimate destination for family fun and cooling off. Located within the scenic, forested surroundings of Elizabeth Swan Park, this modern, dynamic water play area offers children a safe, interactive, and completely free way to beat the summer heat.

The splash pad features a variety of colorful, sensor-activated water fixtures designed to spark creativity and active play. Kids can run through refreshing ground geysers, dodge gentle misting arcs, and eagerly wait under the giant dumping buckets for a thrilling splash of water. Built with a specialized, non-slip safety surface and a zero-depth design, it ensures that toddlers and older children alike can safely splash and play together without the hazards of a deep pool.

Surrounding the splash pad are comfortable benches and shaded grassy areas, allowing parents and guardians to relax and supervise comfortably. Because it is positioned alongside the park’s premier playground, picnic spaces, and public washrooms, a visit to the splash pad easily turns into a full afternoon of outdoor family adventure. Whether you are stopping by for a quick cool-down after a hike up Bare Mountain or planning a weekend family gathering, the splash pad is a vibrant highlight of Clarenville's summer community life.

Locations: Wiseman's Mill is located on Balbo Drive in Shoal Harbour. The historic site of Mill's Siding (Mill's Mill) sits nearby along the upper tracks of the historic railway line.

Long before Clarenville became a regional service hub, it was built on the back of a thriving timber industry. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the dense forests surrounding the Shoal Harbour River provided the lifeblood for early pioneers, a heritage beautifully preserved today through the history of Wiseman’s Mill and Mill’s Mill (Mill's Siding).

Wiseman’s Mill

Operated by four brothers—Gordon, George, Ernest, and Alison Wiseman—between 1918 and 1949, this historic sawmill site on Balbo Drive is a monument to local grit. Before moving to this coastal location, the brothers operated seven miles up the Shoal Harbour River at a spot known as "Tucks." The Balbo Drive mill ran on steam power until 1940 before transitioning to gasoline. Notably, in 1946, Wiseman’s Mill supplied the essential lumber used to construct the famous wooden vessels of the "Splinter Fleet" at the Clarenville Shipyard. Today, thanks to restoration efforts by the Aliant Pioneers, the site features a beautifully maintained park area for visitors.

Mill’s Mill (On the Beachfront at Mill's Siding)

Further weaving forestry into the town’s geography is the legacy of Mill’s Mill, which gave rise to the historic neighborhood known as Mill's Siding. Strategically positioned near the intersection of the granitic hills and the Newfoundland Railway main line, this operation capitalized on the iron road. The mill's dedicated rail siding allowed timber harvested deep from the interior to be directly loaded and shipped across the island, securing Shoal Harbour's status as a premier logging hub in the Random region.

Together, these sites honour the generations of loggers, sawyers, and families whose hard work quite literally shaped the foundations of Clarenville.