The Great Northern Trail Association Inc.(GNTA) is a dynamic not-for-profit organization driven by passionate volunteers committed to enhancing our community’s outdoor experience.
Discover the great northern trail network
Stretching over 150 km, the Great Northern Trail Network invites you to explore a rugged coastline shaped by wind, waves, and history. This evolving network of trails, built in collaboration with coastal communities along the Northern Coast, blends newly built paths, restored heritage routes, and remote backcountry treks into a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or simply seeking connection with nature, the GNTA offers trails that inspire. Every step tells a story—and every trail brings you closer to the edge of the world.
GNTA relies heavily on the generosity of our community through annual memberships from individuals and donations to secure vital support and funding. By forging partnerships with larger organizations, we’re able to strategically plan and execute projects that enhance our trail network and outdoor amenities. This collaborative approach ensures the realization of our vision for vibrant outdoor spaces that enrich the lives of residents and visitors alike, fostering a deeper connection with nature and promoting sustainable recreation.
Breathtaking Trails & unforgettable adventures
The Great Northern Trail Association Inc. (GNTA) is a dedicated, volunteer-driven organization passionate about creating and maintaining exceptional trails on Newfoundland and Labrador’s stunning Great Northern Peninsula. Our mission is to foster health, wellness, and environmental stewardship through premier hiking and outdoor recreation experiences.
Join us as we expand our vibrant trail network. Your support through membership or donations helps ensure these natural treasures remain accessible and inspiring for generations to come.
TRail risks
USE AT OWN RISK
The Great Northern Trail Association (GNTA) is not responsible for any injuries or accidents that may occur while using these trails. Hikers understand that there are inherent risks to outdoor trail use. By using these trails, hikers acknowledge and accept the risks involved and agree to hold the GNTA harmless from any liability.
WARNING
These trails have many natural hazards, including high cliffs, slippery slopes, sharp rocks, and deep, frigid waters. Wildlife such as moose or coyote may be on trail. Never attempt to approach or feed wildlife, and always keep your distance.
Our focus lies in the preservation, development, and upkeep of trails, cultivating a premier hiking destination at the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula. With a mission centered on fostering health, wellness, and environmental stewardship, we strive to create inviting outdoor spaces that inspire exploration and connection with nature.
We have collaborated with communities along the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula to officially create the Great Northern Trail Network—adding each community trail to the network and providing updates and improvements when feasible. Currently, our endeavours include the ambitious creation of new trails, with plans for continued expansion.
Among our latest achievements are the completion of the Cartreau Point Trail, a meticulously designed 9 km multi-use pathway catering to hikers and mountain bikers alike, and the expansion of the Great Northern Trail Network with five new coastal trails to be developed over the next several years. Additionally, we’re in the midst of a multi-year endeavour, now in its fourth year, dedicated to crafting the Iceberg Trail—a breathtaking 60 km route linking coastal wonders from L’Anse aux Meadows to St. Lunaire, promising an unforgettable through-hiking experience.
We have also launched our first trail race, held during the Iceberg Festival in 2025 in St. Anthony, and are currently developing summer programming to get kids outside and engaged with the outdoors. GNTA-branded merchandise is now available at select local businesses, with plans to make it available through our website in the future.
Our work would not be possible without the generous support of the International Grenfell Association, Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador’s Department of Industry, Energy and Technology, as well as our members, sponsors, and donors. Their ongoing support is vital to growing and sustaining our trail network for future generations.
