Port au Choix National Historic Site

On the west side of Newfoundland's Great Northern Peninsula, you’ll find the crossroads of 6000 years of human history. The sea’s bounty drew Maritime Archaic people, the Dorset people, the Groswater people and the recent indigenous people here long before Europeans arrived. Seals on passing iceflows were hunted by the Dorset and used for food, shelter and clothing. Discover one of North America’s most fascinating archaeological finds amid a rugged coastline of unique limestone barrens, forests and bays. Visit ancient burial sites, settlements and view original artifacts, from slate spears to harpoons.

Beauty and the barren: discover the limestone barrens

Go on a guided tour to explore the rare and fragile limestone barrens, home to shoreline fossils and rare arctic plants found nowhere else in Canada, and some species found nowhere else in the world.

Seal for all seasons

In a harsh and changeable Arctic climate, seals were one of the major sources of subsistence for ancient cultures. In this hands-on program, learn how critical seals and sealskin items have been to ancient and existing Aboriginal cultures.

​Hiking in Port au Choix

Travel through time on hiking trails through dramatic limestone barrens, to coastal trails ideal for seal and caribou spotting, and archeological finds including a 4,000 year old Maritime Archaic burial ground.

Visiting Port au Choix National Historic Site

Activities and experiences

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Plan your visit

How to get here, local attractions, accessibility, facilities and services.

Safety and guidelines

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About Port au Choix National Historic Site

Culture and history

History, culture, cultural landscape, designation information.

Stewardship and management

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Contact us

Telephone (seasonal): 709-861-3522
Telephone (off-season): 709-458-2417
Email: portauchoix@pc.gc.ca

Hours of operation

Open June 1 to October 4, 2024
Every day, from 9 am to 5 pm

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