Churchill Falls

We stayed near Churchill Falls last night so we could visit the falls first thing before heading to Goose Bay.

These falls are know by a host of names: Churchill Falls, Grand Falls, Bowdoin Falls, and by the Innu as Patshishetshuanau ('place where the current makes clouds').

The falls were a significant landmark for early trappers. Apparently the falls were so grand and made such a noise that they could be heard the days before the trappers arrived.

Alas, Churchill Falls are a whisper of their former glory. A reservoir was constructed above the falls to power a hydro generating station near the town of Churchill Falls, which reduced the flow to a trickle. Now the river only flows near full capacity when the reservoir is drained to make room for the spring melt.

We also enjoyed walking in the forest around the falls. It was full of lichen, mushrooms, and all sorts of other high latitude flora.

In short, a totally spectacular hike!Read more