The Great Northern Peninsula is home to many landmarks. Not the least of which is located just north of Gros Morne National Park between the small communities of Parson’s Pond and Portland Creek. From a parking area just off the highway you are presented with beautiful, dense tuckamore forest. A short path leads to the beach where a massive rock formation steals all the focus. A massive, porous rock has been lashed by waves for millenia, forming three natural arches. Through them you can see the wild ocean crashing in.
The Arches Provincial Park opened to the public in 1972 but visitors were photographing this breathtaking sight for as long as can be remembered. These arches were carved from the rock by thousands of years of crashing ocean waves. There was once a fourth arch but constant erosion eventually led to its collapse. Inevitably, time and tide will do the same to the remaining three.
Find out more about the park by visiting Natural History.
Photo Gallery
Activities
Beach
With over 29,000 kilometres of coastline, we’ve got more than a few beaches to boast about, and the Arches is no exception. A short trail leads down to a saltwater cobblestone beach with a phenomenal view of the ocean and all it has to offer. Keep your camera handy.
Bird Watching
It can be hard to take your eyes off the Arches, but be sure to lift your gaze and take in any number of seabirds on the wing. The skies above are dotted with fine feathered friends of all shapes and sizes. And the beautiful tuckamore forest is home to numerous bird species including Ruffed Grouse, warblers and Three-toed Woodpecker, to name a few. Be sure to bring binoculars and listen for their delightful songs and calls.
Dog Walking
Dogs are welcome in all provincial parks and the Arches is no exception. And with this breathtaking beach and all that crisp, sea air, it would be a real shame to leave your canine buddies behind. Dogs must be leashed and be sure to clean up after your pet.
Hiking and Walking
The path to the Arches is short but keep in mind the beach is rocky and you’ll want to watch your step. Once you are in sight of the massive rock formation against the backdrop of sea and sky you’ll be inspired to take a shore walk. Please take note that although it can be tempting, climbing the arches is prohibited.
Photography
The Arches make an excellent backdrop for the enthusiast photographer. The Arches is easily one of the most photographed places in Newfoundland. And with good reason; this phenomenal formation begs to be photographed and you won’t be long filling up an SD card. In fact, you might want to bring along a couple extra.
Picnics
The sight of the Arches rising out of the ocean will make you want to stop and catch your breath and soak up the natural beauty. Pack some snacks and treat yourself to a feast for the body and the soul.
Stargazing
Around here, when the sun sets, the light show begins. And the lack of artificial light means you’ll have no trouble spotting your favourite constellations as the stars twinkle and shine down from above. Bring along a telescope and take it all in.
Wildlife Watching
If it feels like you aren’t alone in these forests, you’re right! From the towering moose to the elusive lynx and the snowshoe hare, there’s lots to see. The best time to experience wildlife in the park is in the morning or evening; keep quiet and keep your eyes peeled.
Prohibitions
Do Not Disturb
Please note that everything in a provincial park is protected; from the smallest rock to the largest tree. For that reason, introducing and/or removing any natural items is prohibited.
No Campfires
No Camping
No Cutting Trees
No Hunting
No Off-road Vehicles
Off-road vehicles include any motorized vehicles that are not legally permitted for use on provincial highways.
No Snowmobiles
Services
Accessibility Information
Wheelchair accessible outhouses are available in the park.
Cell Service
Cell service is available in the park.
Outhouse
Outhouse facilities are located in the park and are open seasonally.
Parking
There is a parking lot in the park.
Picnic Area
The day use area has picnic tables.
Natural History
The Arches Provincial Park is located in the Coastal Plain subregion of the Northern Peninsula Forest ecoregion. Here you can view bone white and beautiful tuckamore and take a path that leads to the rocky beach below, where you can spot an awe-inspiring rock formation. Composed of Ordovician aged dolomitic conglomerate, the porous arches have been eroded by thousands of years of sea wave action. Originally numbering four, one arch has completely collapsed. The remaining three stand strong but will eventually succumb to time and tide.
For additional information on the natural history of this park in the Northern Peninsula Forest ecoregion, please refer to the Coastal Plain subregion brochure.