Considering I hadn't even been to Canada before this trip, Newfoundland was really, really uncharted territory, from the moment I boarded the overnight ferry from Sydney, NS, I really didn't know what to expect. All I can say is that I was seriously impressed, and having just under a week in Newfoundland was not enough. This leg of the trip without a doubt presented the most challenges; in addition to the technical driving we'd be doing, it was also the terminus for the North American leg of the tour. It meant we'd have to be spot on our dates and prepare to ship the vehicles across the Atlantic ocean.
It seemed like within minutes of landing in Port Aux Basque we found a trail - the old Trans-Newfoundland railway, it's been turned into a ATV and motorcycle trail, but as far as we could see, it perfectly acceptable for a larger 4WD's like our Land Cruisers. A quick stop by the park ranger station for permission, and we were on our way.
The area we were exploring was a barrier island filled with dunes and trails.
The soft sand presented challenges to the heavy Land Cruisers still running street pressure in their tires.
The sherpa struggled the most through the sand dunes as it had roughly half the power of the VDJ78's.
There were even points that we had to use both front and rear locking differentials.
Before we left, Bruce insisted on getting some vehicle shots, no cinemetographers were harmed on this trail.
Camp for that night was in Terra Nova National Park, the morning involved imported American bacon.
Greg found a few nice diversions from the Trans-Canada Highway, including a beautiful short trail with several small water crossings.
The rugged, dark scenery of Newfoundland is nothing short of iconic.
This trail put us just miles outside of St. John's and Cape Spear.
Located only miles south of St. John's, Cape Spear Drive delivers you to the Easternmost point of the North American continent.
Needless to say, the entire team was shocked when we saw an iceberg that had floated into the bay.
The waves were rugged, and the wind was intense once we reached Cape Spear.
Bruce and Scott shake hands as they've completed the first of seven continents.
Greg and Scott doing an interview shortly after reaching Cape Spear.
The Sherpa stands by patiently.
Kurt and Scott talk about the journey.
An interesting fact about Cape Spear is that during WWII allied forces established a military bunker to protect the island and it's strategic harbor.
Years of cold salt air has warped the metal of the bunker in strange ways.
The trenches were unfortunately gated off.
Several random locked doors were scattered throughout the facility.
Unfortunately for the Expeditions 7 team, due to high winds, the official Cape Spear sign had blown away. Luckily the Canadian government put these nice 2x4's with liquid nails in its place.
It's weird to think how far away we were from our starting point, Iceland was closer than home for the team.
The longer we stayed, the more intense the waves became, it's suggested that you stay far back, as large ocean swells frequently drag people into the frigid waters.
Unfortunately their sign only applied to old people with canes, so I was allowed to get closer for photos.
The historic lighthouse at Cape Spear is still functioning today.
Amongst the joy of reaching Cape Spear, there were undertones of sadness, for some, including myself, it marked the end of the journey with a fantastic team, and the end of good times shared with them. I'd like to personally thank everyone on the team for letting me tag along and experience this great adventure with you.
Stay tuned for more updates as the team heads to Iceland!
