Definition
A fjord is a long, narrow, steep-walled valley carved by glacial ice, later filled with water. The defining features are the glacial carving and the steep rock walls rising directly from the water on both sides.
Why it matters
Two of the park's signature landscapes are fjords, but of different kinds. Western Brook Pond is a landlocked fjord — the glacial valley filled with fresh water after it was cut off from the sea, so despite the cliffs and depth, it's technically a freshwater lake today. Bonne Bay, where Rocky Harbour sits, is a fjord still open to the ocean, which is why it's tidal and saltwater.
Examples
- Western Brook Pond — landlocked freshwater fjord with cliffs rising roughly 600 metres above the water.
- Bonne Bay — saltwater fjord still connected to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, forming the harbour Rocky Harbour is built around.
Related guides & terms
Last updated: August 2, 2026 · Editorial team