Join us for a guided coastal hike to the Mistaken Point UNESCO World Heritage Site—home to the oldest largest multicellular fossils on Earth.
Our interpreters will lead you along a stunning stretch of coastline and share the stories, science, and significance behind these remarkable 565-million-year-old impressions. You’ll have the chance to stand on the protected fossil surface and learn how these ancient organisms shaped the early history of life.
This hike is moderately challenging and takes place over uneven terrain, so please review the requirements, restrictions, and what to bring checklist before booking.
Tours proceed in most weather conditions, but may be cancelled in the event of lightning, extremely high winds, or unsafe ocean conditions (high waves).
We look forward to exploring Mistaken Point with you! If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact the interpreters office at 1-709-438-1011 or email us at mistakenpointtour@gov.nl.ca
Safety Requirements:
Guests must be physically capable of hiking 6 km round-trip over uneven terrain, hills, and inclines.
Closed-toe footwear is mandatory: hiking boots or sturdy sneakers/runners only.
No sandals, hiking sandals, crocs, water shoes, or any open-toed footwear allowed.
Guests must bring weather-appropriate clothing (rain gear, warm layers) and be prepared for cooler coastal conditions.
Bring water, sunscreen, insect repellent, and extra socks (footwear must be removed before stepping onto the fossil surfaces).
Anyone with health concerns (heart, breathing, allergy, vertigo, or mobility issues) should speak with staff before joining the hike.
Staff may refuse participation if a guest is not properly prepared, not physically capable, or displays disrespectful or unsafe behaviour.
Restrictions
Access to the fossil site is by guided tour only.
No pets allowed.
Tours may be cancelled at any time due to lightning, extremely high winds, or unsafe ocean conditions (high waves).
Children 12 & under must be accompanied by an adult.
All visitors must follow guide instructions at all times
What To Bring CheckList:
Hiking boots or running shoes
Warm layers and waterproof outerwear
Extra socks (important for walking on the fossil surfaces)
Water and snacks (amenities are limited in the area)
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Optional: hiking stick
1. Check-in at the Interpretation Centre
Meet your interpreter and complete necessary check-in proceedures
Get a brief introduction to the area and take a look around our exhibition room
2. Drive to the Trailhead (approx. 30 minutes)
9 km paved road + 6 km gravel road
Guests follow interpretive staff in their own vehicles
3. Guided Coastal Hike (6 km round-trip)
45–60 minutes each way
Moderate difficulty; uneven and varied terrain
4. Fossil Viewing Area
Remove footwear before stepping onto the protected surfaces
Learn about the fossils and the early history of complex life
5. Tour Conclusion and Return Hike
- Access to the UNESCO World Heritage Site through an Interpretive guide
- Free access to the Mistaken Point Interpretation Centre's exhibition room.
- Transportation to the Interpretation Centre or trailhead (visitors follow their guide in their own vehicle to the trailhead which is a 15 km drive from the interpretation centre)
- Food or water
- Personal gear (rainwear, footwear, etc.)
Check-in at the Mistaken Point Interpretation centre (formerly Edge of Avalon Interpretation Centre)
77 Main Road, Portugal Cove South, NL
Do NOT enter "Mistaken Point" into Google or Apple Maps- You will be directed to an incorrect location outside service range.
If you need to cancel, please contact us as early as possible so we can offer your space to another visitor.
Visitors who cancel 48 hours ahead of their tour time will get a 100% refund (48+hours).
Visitors who cancel 24 hours ahead of their tour time will get a 50% refund (24-48 hours).
Visitors who cancel within 24 hours of their tour time are not eligible for a refund.
A confirmation of attendance email will be sent 3 days prior to your tour. Please confirm your attendance at least 48 hours in advance, or your booking may be cancelled to accommodate other guests.
Tours proceed in most weather conditions, including rain and fog.
Tours may be cancelled due to:
***In these cases prepaid tour fees will be refunded
Lightning
Extremely high winds
Unsafe ocean conditions (high waves)