Newfoundland has long been a winter playground, offering unforgettable experiences in its rugged, snow-covered terrain. From the vast Lewis Hills to the iconic Gros Morne National Park, the province has attracted adventurers looking to snowmobile, ski/snowboard, and snowshoe their way through stunning landscapes. Yet, our recent winters have reminded us that our winters are not what they used to be. Rising temperatures, erratic weather, and thinner snowpacks are altering the landscape of winter guiding in Newfoundland.

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The Finlador Team spoke with guides from across the province to understand how these changes are impacting their work and the outdoor activities that have defined Newfoundland winters for generations.

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A Winter in Flux: The Struggles of 2023 

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Ask any guide about the 2023/2024 winter, and they’ll likely shake their head. “The Lewis Hills usually have some of the best snowmobiling trails in Newfoundland,” one guide said. “But this year, the snow came late, and when it did, the warmer temperatures meant it didn’t last.”

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Another guide based in Gros Morne National Park shared similar frustrations: “We’re used to taking clients up into the Tablelands for backcountry skiing/snowboarding, but the snowpack just wasn’t there. The temperatures kept swinging above freezing, and it rained as much as it snowed.”

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The Blow Me Down Mountains, a favorite destination for snowshoers and skiers, also saw shorter seasons and less reliable snow. “It’s hard to plan a trip for clients when you can’t even be sure the snow will stick,” a guide lamented.

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Even more troubling was the state of frozen lakes and rivers. Many snowmobiling tours, which traditionally navigate frozen water bodies, were forced to reroute. “It’s dangerous now,” said one guide. “The ice isn’t freezing thick enough to be safe, and you don’t want to take that risk.”

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The Rising Costs of Adventure

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Adding to the unpredictability of Newfoundland’s winters is the growing cost of staying prepared. Snowmobiles, backcountry skis, snowshoes, and avalanche safety equipment are becoming increasingly expensive, creating financial challenges for guides and adventurers alike.

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One guide explained: “I spent thousands on new backcountry gear this year, but with the conditions we had, it barely got used. It makes you wonder if it’s even worth it.”

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For clients, the high cost of renting or purchasing gear can also be a deterrent. This combination of rising costs and unreliable conditions is leading many to question the future of winter guiding in Newfoundland.

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The Alarming Trends of Climate Change

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Newfoundland’s struggles aren’t unique. Across the globe, rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns are reshaping winter seasons. In Newfoundland, average winter temperatures have steadily increased, with fewer days of consistent freezing conditions. “I’ve been guiding for over a decade,” said one seasoned guide. “And I can tell you, the winters have changed. What we’re seeing now is not normal.”

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Guides expressed concern over the long-term impact of these changes. The Lewis Hills, Gros Morne, and the Blow Me Down Mountains are all iconic winter destinations, but their accessibility depends on consistent snow and ice. With warmer winters becoming the norm, these landscapes may no longer offer the same opportunities.

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Finding Hope in Uncertain Times

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Despite these challenges, Newfoundland’s guides remain resilient. Many are finding ways to adapt and innovate, offering new types of experiences that aren’t as dependent on snow. Some are shifting focus to year-round adventures, while others are working to raise awareness about climate change and its impact on the outdoors.

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One guide shared an optimistic outlook: “We can’t control the weather, but we can control how we respond to it. Newfoundland still has so much to offer, even if winter looks a little different now.”

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At Finlador, we’re inspired by the determination and creativity of Newfoundland’s guiding community. While the future of winter guiding may be uncertain, the passion of those who call this province home ensures that adventure will always be part of the story.

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Adapting to the New Normal

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Newfoundland’s winter guiding industry is at a turning point. Rising temperatures, unpredictable weather, and the cost of outdoor equipment are creating significant challenges. Yet, the spirit of adventure and the commitment of guides remain unwavering.

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From the windswept peaks of the Blow Me Down Mountains to the sweeping vistas of Gros Morne, Newfoundland continues to be a place of beauty and wonder. While the seasons may change, the heart of outdoor exploration endures. As one guide put it: “We’re adapting. We’re learning. And we’re finding new ways to share this incredible place with the world.”

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This might be the new normal, but together—with awareness, action, and resilience—we can ensure that the outdoors remains a source of inspiration and joy for generations to come.

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