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Geological site · Portugal Cove South, Newfoundland and Labrador
Mistaken Point
Rocky coast with fossils dated 580 to 560 million years old, among the oldest large and complex life forms on Earth; a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2016.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Mistaken Point
Mistaken Point is a stretch of about 17 km of coastline on the southeast of Newfoundland. Imprinted on tilted rock layers are traces of organisms that lived on the seafloor around 580 to 560 million years ago, during the Ediacaran period. These are some of the oldest known large and complex life forms in the world.
The fossils appear as leaf-, disc- and branch-shaped impressions and were preserved when volcanic ash covered the seafloor, recording whole communities in place. In 2016, the ecological reserve was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Visits are only possible with a guide, departing from the Edge of Avalon interpretation centre in Portugal Cove South. The walk to the fossil surface is about 3 km each way across bogs and coastline, and is of moderate difficulty.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About three hours, including the guided walk.
Best time
From mid-May to mid-October, during the visiting season. Book in advance, especially in summer.
How to get there
Take Route 10 to the Portugal Cove South interpretation centre, about a 2-hour drive from St. John’s. The guided visit departs from there.
Tip
Wear waterproof boots and bring a coat: the trail crosses wet bogs and the coast is windy and foggy. The fossils must not be touched or walked on.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Mistaken Point
How old are the Mistaken Point fossils?
About 580 to 560 million years old, from the Ediacaran period.
Can you visit Mistaken Point without a guide?
No. Visits are only with a guide departing from Portugal Cove South.
Is the Mistaken Point walk difficult?
Moderate, about 3 km each way across bogs and coastline.
Is Mistaken Point a UNESCO site?
Yes, since 2016.