Day 68: Fallsview Municipal Park to Gander’s Country Inn Campground
Notre Dame Provincial Park is nestled in a lush forest that borders on the serene waters of Junction Pond. Moose, beaver, snowshoe hare and many other animals call the park home. Camping is available here.
Your destination for the evening is Country Inn Campground, on the outskirts of Gander.
The Gander International Airport is a large catalyst for growth for Gander, population, 9 951. Because of its location in the far northeast of North America, the airport has become an important stop for planes heading across the Atlantic to Europe. Many of Gander’s streets are named for famous aviators. Head to the North Atlantic Aviation Museum to sit in the cockpit of a DC-3, one of the most significant aircrafts ever produced.
During World War II, American and Canadian fighter jets stopped at Gander before heading off to war. Following the war’s end, the airport was used as a refueling stop for commercial flights. During this era the town earned its name as the “Cross-roads of the world.”
During the middle of the century it was common to hear languages from all over the world around town. Legend claims that Fidel Castro once tobogganed with youth on the slopes overlooking Gander Lake.
Gander played a prominent role in coping with the aftermath of the September 11th attacks in New York City. 6 600 passengers spent over three days in Gander while waiting for airspace to re-open. Residents of Gander and surrounding communities housed, fed and entertained the travelers in what became known as Operation Yellow Ribbon.
Gander sits on the north shore of Gander Lake, which has been measured at 274 metres and is estimated to be much deeper.
Country Inn Campground is located just outside of Gander. Gander is the last chance for supplies until Clarenville.
