Enterprise Car Hire
Gander

Arriving late at Gander International Airport calls for a little advance planning to ensure a smooth car collection. It is good practice to include your flight number on the booking so staff can monitor your arrival. Many airport rental locations align their opening hours with flight schedules, but you should confirm the specific procedure for after-hours collections. Your rental confirmation will usually detail the steps for a late pickup, which might involve a shuttle or particular instructions at the counter. Checking these details beforehand will give you peace of mind.

For a relaxed day trip from Gander to Twillingate, the most direct route is via the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) west to Route 340, the Road to the Isles. To avoid feeling rushed, plan an early start, as the drive itself is about 90 minutes each way without stops. That gives you plenty of time to explore Twillingate's coastline, visit the Long Point Lighthouse and perhaps take a boat tour. The scenery along the Road to the Isles is lovely, so allow extra time for spontaneous photo stops to make the journey part of the experience.

Gander is very car-friendly, and having a vehicle is the most convenient way to get around, especially if you are attending a conference. The main commercial area along the Trans-Canada Highway, where many hotels and restaurants are located, is spread out and best navigated by car. While the town centre has some walkable areas with local shops, key attractions like the North Atlantic Aviation Museum or Gander International Airport are easiest to reach by car. A hire car provides the flexibility to explore the town's aviation heritage and surrounding natural beauty on your own schedule.

Driving from Gander to the Bonavista Peninsula in early spring requires attention to road conditions. At this time you can expect a mix of clear road surfaces and sections with lingering snow or ice, particularly in shaded areas. Potholes are common due to the freeze–thaw cycle, so maintaining a safe speed is important. Weather can change quickly, with potential late-season snow squalls or coastal fog. It's always sensible to check provincial road reports before you set off and to allow a little extra travel time for safe driving.

Visitors to the North Atlantic Aviation Museum in Gander will find convenient parking available on site. The museum provides a dedicated car park with ample space for cars, SUVs and even larger vehicles such as RVs. This makes access straightforward, allowing you to park a short walk from the main entrance. The lot is well signed and easy to find, located just off the Trans-Canada Highway. You won’t need to worry about on-street parking or complex car parks, which makes for a hassle-free start to your visit.

The direct drive from Gander to St. John's along the Trans-Canada Highway typically takes about three and a half hours. However, to fully appreciate the journey with stops, it's wise to allow at least five to six hours. That gives you time for scenic lookouts in Terra Nova National Park and a lunch stop in a town such as Clarenville or Whitbourne. Adding this extra time turns the drive into a memorable part of your Newfoundland visit, letting you enjoy the landscape without rushing.

Yes, when driving on the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) east or west of Gander, it's sensible to keep an eye on your fuel level. While main towns have services, there can be long stretches between them with no petrol stations, sometimes extending 50 miles or more. This is especially the case on more remote routes branching off the main highway. A good rule of thumb is to refuel when your tank is half-full, particularly before heading into less populated areas like Terra Nova National Park or towards the Baie Verte Peninsula.

Driving on the Trans-Canada Highway near Gander in foggy weather requires increased caution and reduced speeds. Newfoundland's weather can produce dense fog with little warning, significantly cutting visibility, especially in low-lying areas or near water. When you encounter fog, use low-beam headlights rather than high beams, which can reflect off moisture and worsen visibility. Increase your following distance and be prepared for sudden stops. Locals are used to these conditions, but visitors should always prioritise safety by slowing down.

Gander makes a good base for iceberg-hunting day trips in spring and early summer. The most popular and realistic destinations by car are the coastal communities along the Kittiwake Coast and the Road to the Isles. Towns like Twillingate, renowned for iceberg viewing, are about a 90-minute drive away. Other options include Newtown and Greenspond, offering stunning coastal scenery and chances to see icebergs grounded near shore. An early start will give you a full day to explore these picturesque outport communities.

Using Gander as a hub for 3–4 days is a sensible way to explore central Newfoundland. A practical itinerary could include a full day trip north to Twillingate and the scenic communities along the Road to the Isles. Dedicate another day to the dramatic coasts and trails of Terra Nova National Park. A third day might be spent exploring the Kittiwake Coast, visiting towns such as Greenspond and New-Wes-Valley. This plan avoids long drives on consecutive days and lets you experience the region's varied landscapes, from rugged coastlines to dense forest.

The drive from Gander to Fogo Island is an adventure that requires planning, particularly around the ferry timetable. The drive to the Farewell ferry terminal takes about an hour and a half. The ferry operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so it's important to arrive well in advance of your preferred departure, especially in the peak season. Weather can cause ferry delays or cancellations, so keep a flexible schedule. Once on Fogo Island, roads are generally well maintained but narrow in places, so a relaxed driving pace is best to enjoy the scenery.

Driving at dusk and dawn around Gander requires extreme vigilance because of the high likelihood of encountering moose on the roads. These large animals are most active in low-light hours and can be very difficult to see. Always scan the verges and tree lines, not just the road ahead, as they often step out with little warning. Reduce your speed significantly on all highways, especially the Trans-Canada, to improve reaction time. Paying attention to moose warning signs and avoiding driving at night where possible are the best ways to stay safe.

After a long flight, the quickest way to get oriented for driving in Gander is to spend a few minutes with a map before leaving the airport. Gander's layout is straightforward, with the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) as the main artery. Most hotels, restaurants and services are located along or just off this road. Program your hotel's address into your GPS or phone before you start driving. Note the town's roundabouts; yield to traffic already in the circle and signal when exiting. A short, slow drive around the airport area can also help you get comfortable.

The drive from Gander to Gros Morne National Park is long, but a few scenic stops can make it feel more manageable. A good first break is Grand Falls-Windsor to see the Exploits River and the Salmonid Interpretation Centre. Further west, Springdale offers a pleasant coastal detour and a chance to see icebergs in season. As you approach, stopping in Deer Lake for a meal or to stretch your legs is a practical final pause before entering the park. These breaks divide the roughly four-hour drive into smaller, more enjoyable segments.

Winter storm warnings in Gander should be taken seriously and will often alter driving plans. Such warnings typically predict heavy snowfall, high winds producing whiteout conditions and icy roads. The Trans-Canada Highway can become treacherous or even be closed during severe storms. It is essential to monitor weather forecasts and official road reports closely. If a storm is expected, the safest option is to postpone travel until conditions improve and road crews have cleared the highways. Having a flexible itinerary is key to safe winter travel.

Yes, expect gaps in mobile coverage on many popular drives from Gander, particularly on rural routes and within national parks like Terra Nova. Coverage is generally reliable along the Trans-Canada Highway and in larger towns, but it can become patchy or non-existent in more remote areas. To handle navigation, download offline maps of the region to your phone before you set off. This ensures your GPS will function without a mobile signal and provide reliable directions no matter where your journey takes you.

To enjoy Terra Nova National Park with fewer crowds, aim to arrive early in the morning from Gander, especially at weekends in summer. An early start helps you secure parking at popular trailheads like Ochre Hill Lookout or Sandy Pond before they fill up. Visiting on a weekday is usually much quieter than at the weekend. Another option is to visit in the late afternoon when morning crowds have left, ideal for a short hike followed by a scenic drive as the sun lowers.

The drive from Gander to Clarenville offers several child-friendly stops. A great option is Terra Nova National Park, whose visitor centre has easy trails and interactive displays. The Sandy Pond area in the park is ideal, with a playground and a beach where children can run about. Just outside the park, the town of Glovertown has public spaces and small parks. These stops break up the roughly 90-minute drive and provide a welcome chance for younger travellers to expend energy before continuing.

Gander has several roundabouts that may be unfamiliar to some visitors. The key is to give way to traffic already circulating in the roundabout before you join. Once inside, proceed to your desired exit and use your right indicator to show you are leaving. For merge lanes, especially onto the Trans-Canada Highway, match the speed of traffic before merging smoothly. Local drivers are generally patient, but signalling clearly and taking your time will ensure a safe and stress-free experience at intersections.

When travelling with bulky gear such as skis or large packs, choosing the right vehicle size is important for a comfortable trip. An SUV or a people carrier is often the best choice, offering generous luggage space and flexibility with fold-down seats. Consider not just the length of your skis but also the volume of other luggage and the number of passengers. It helps to visualise how everything will fit. Opting for a slightly larger vehicle than you think you need can prevent a cramped interior and make travel around Newfoundland more enjoyable.

Gander is conveniently located for several great hiking trails that don't require a full day. You can reach trails around Gander Lake, such as the Silent Witness Memorial, in just 10–15 minutes. For a slightly longer drive, the coastal trails near Dover or the trail systems in Bishop's Falls are about 45–60 minutes away. These options offer a taste of Newfoundland's natural beauty with varied difficulty levels, making them perfect for a half-day outdoor excursion from town.

Strong winds can be a significant factor when driving in Newfoundland, and some routes from Gander are more exposed. The Trans-Canada Highway, particularly on open, elevated sections, can experience strong crosswinds. Coastal routes, such as the Road to the Isles (Route 340) to Twillingate, are also very exposed to winds from the sea. Winds are often strongest in spring and autumn and during weather systems. Keep a firm grip on the wheel and give larger vehicles, such as lorries, extra space.

In late autumn, typically October and November, daylight hours in Gander shorten noticeably. The sun can set as early as 4:30 pm, which significantly affects day-trip planning. Start excursions early in the morning to maximise daylight for driving and sightseeing. It's also wise to head back towards Gander by mid-afternoon to avoid driving long distances on unfamiliar rural roads in the dark. This is particularly important because of the increased risk of wildlife, like moose, on the highways after dusk.

Most hotels in Gander have adequate parking, but if a hotel lot is tight there are other comfortable options for a larger vehicle such as an SUV or a truck. Several of the town's larger retail centres and supermarkets have spacious car parks where you can temporarily park during the day. For overnight parking, speak to your hotel's front desk first; they can often direct you to a designated overflow area or provide the best local advice. Gander is generally not difficult for parking, even with a bigger vehicle.

The drive from Gander to Lewisporte and the wider Notre Dame Bay area is a beautiful and relatively easy trip. The route is about an hour long and takes you through rolling hills and wooded landscape before opening to stunning coastal views. Roads are generally well maintained and lead into charming outport communities. This region, part of the 'Road to the Shore', is perfect for a leisurely day of exploration, with plenty of opportunities to pull over and photograph the rugged coastline, fishing stages and picturesque harbours.

For a photography trip based in Gander, several accessible spots offer excellent sunrise and sunset views. Gander Lake, just a short drive from town, provides beautiful opportunities at both times, with calm water reflecting the sky. For a dramatic coastal sunrise, an early drive to the Kittiwake Coast near places like Greenspond will reward you with light on rocky shores and fishing villages. For sunsets, driving west along the Trans-Canada Highway offers elevated viewpoints over forested landscape, capturing the warm evening light.

When planning a driving loop from Gander that involves the Farewell ferry (for Fogo Island or Change Islands), flexibility is paramount. The ferry runs to a timetable but is quite susceptible to weather delays, especially from wind and sea ice. Check the ferry status online before you leave Gander. Build extra time into your itinerary as you may need to wait for a later crossing or postpone by a day. Having a backup plan, such as exploring the scenic mainland coast near the terminal, is a sensible strategy.

Driving near Gander during a freeze–thaw cycle, common in late autumn and early spring, requires extreme caution because of black ice risk. This nearly invisible ice forms when melting snow or rain refreezes as temperatures drop, especially overnight and early morning. It is most likely on bridges, overpasses and in shaded areas. Reduce speed, avoid sudden braking or steering movements, and increase following distance. Be particularly wary even if the main lanes appear clear.

If a flight delay means you'll arrive in Gander late at night, it's often best to adjust same-day driving plans. The safest backup is to book a hotel in Gander for the night rather than attempting a long drive in the dark on unfamiliar roads, especially given the moose risk. This allows you to rest and start fresh the next morning. If you must travel a short distance, ensure your destination is aware of your late arrival. Always prioritise safety over sticking rigidly to a schedule after a travel delay.

Wildlife, particularly moose, is most active on highways around Gander at dawn and dusk. These are the highest-risk times for collisions, as low light makes animals very hard to see. Drivers adapt by significantly reducing speed and actively scanning the sides of the road and ditches, not just the pavement ahead. From sunset to sunrise, exercise extra vigilance. Wildlife encounters are less common during the day but remain possible, so staying alert when driving through Newfoundland’s natural landscape is always important.

Driving to cabins or outpost accommodation near Gander usually involves smaller local roads that branch off the main highways. The most straightforward approach is to obtain detailed directions from your host beforehand, as GPS service can be unreliable in remote areas. Typically you'll take the Trans-Canada Highway to a specific exit, then follow a numbered local route and possibly a gravel access road. These roads are generally passable with a standard vehicle in summer, but it's sensible to drive slowly and watch for potholes or uneven surfaces.

Gander's central location makes it an extremely versatile part of a one-week Newfoundland itinerary. It works well as a starting point if you fly into YQX, allowing you to explore the central region before heading east to St. John's or west to Gros Morne. It also serves as an excellent mid-point stop, providing a convenient base for a few nights as you transition between the Avalon and western peninsulas. Using Gander as a mid-point helps break up long driving days and ensures you see the island's diverse landscapes.

For US visitors, the most noticeable difference is that speeds and distances are posted in kilometres per hour (km/h) and kilometres, not miles. Moose warning signs, showing the animal's silhouette, are ubiquitous and should be taken seriously. You may also see signs for 'passing lanes ahead', indicating a temporary second lane for overtaking slower vehicles on two-lane highways. Finally, a flashing green light at an intersection is not a turn signal; it means you have the right of way to proceed straight or turn.

To catch a morning boat tour in Twillingate or Bonavista, plan for an early start from Gander. The drive to Twillingate is about 90 minutes, while Bonavista is closer to two and a half hours. Boat tours typically require you to check in 30 minutes before departure. Therefore, leave Gander at least two hours before a Twillingate tour and a full three hours before one in Bonavista. This buffer accounts for unexpected delays and ensures a stress-free start to your tour.

For a shorter scenic loop from Gander, consider exploring the 'Road to the Shore' with a circuit through towns like Lewisporte and Campbellton. This loop offers attractive coastal views of Notre Dame Bay and can be completed comfortably in a few hours. Another good option is a drive around Gander Lake on local roads through small communities, enjoying the lakeside scenery. These shorter drives provide a pleasant sense of the local landscape without committing to a full day on the Trans-Canada Highway.

The easiest way to plan stops on longer drives from Gander is to target the larger towns located along the Trans-Canada Highway. Towns like Grand Falls-Windsor to the west and Clarenville to the east are major service centres with numerous petrol stations, fast-food outlets and local restaurants that have reliable restrooms. It's sensible to use these opportunities when you see them, as services can be sparse between these towns. A quick look at a map before you set off will help you identify these key service hubs along your route.

In summer, rural drives near Gander often require some patience due to variable conditions. While many routes are paved, you may encounter gravel sections, especially when heading to remote trailheads or coastal areas. Potholes are common after the spring thaw, and summer is peak season for road maintenance and repairs, which can cause minor delays. Adopt a relaxed driving pace, allow a little extra time in your schedule, and enjoy the scenery rather than rushing through these areas.

The drive from Gander to Deer Lake is about three hours, and there are several comfortable places to take a break. Grand Falls-Windsor, roughly an hour from Gander, is the largest service centre on the route and a perfect spot for fuel, food or coffee. Further on, the town of Badger offers a smaller but convenient place to stop and stretch. As you near Deer Lake, the community of South Brook provides a final opportunity for a quick break before you reach your destination, making the drive feel relaxed and manageable.

When driving to remote trailheads near Gander, be prepared for roads that may be narrower and less well maintained than main routes. Many access roads can be gravel or dirt, so drive at a slower, more cautious speed. It's critical to have reliable directions or downloaded offline maps, as mobile service is often non-existent in these areas. Before you go, ensure your vehicle is in good condition and let someone know your planned route and expected return time as a standard safety precaution for exploring backcountry areas.

A common and efficient routing pattern for a multi-stop Newfoundland trip is to fly into one airport and out of another. For example, many travellers fly into St. John's (YYT), explore the Avalon Peninsula, then drive west along the Trans-Canada Highway, using Gander as a mid-point stop for a night or two. From Gander they continue west to explore Gros Morne National Park before flying out of Deer Lake (YDF). This one-way route minimises backtracking and allows you to see a broad and diverse portion of the island in a single, logical trip.