For outdoor enthusiasts, Corner Brook makes an excellent base for exploring outlying mountains and waters.
Mountain bikers should plan a stop by TNT Professional Bicycles, 8 Maple Valley Rd. (tel. 709/634-6799). These guys know their business; ask for suggestions on where to go and for the free map of backcountry bike routes. Didn't bring your bike? You can also rent one here, and the shop leads group rides twice a week in summer, starting around 7pm (it stays light late here). Note that the shop is closed Sundays.
Some of the region's best hiking is found along Route 450 toward Bottle Cove. But other hikes will get you quickly up into the hills around Corner Brook. At Marble Mountain ski area , east of town on the Trans-Canada Highway, you can park at the ski lodge parking lot and follow a 1km (.6-mile) trail up to Steady Brook Falls, which is especially impressive after a summer rain. More extensive hikes are outlined in the "Corner Brook Hiking Guide and Map," available free at the visitor information center.
Anglers in search of the noted Atlantic salmon that spawn in the Humber have a wide selection of outfitters who provide an all-inclusive fishing experience; one price covers transportation from the airport, accommodations, meals, and a guide. For a reputable guide, try the Strawberry Hill Resort in Little Rapids (tel. 877/434-0066 or 709/634-0066) or the Humber Valley Resort in the Humber Valley near Corner Brook (tel. 866/686-8100 or 709/686-8100). Other outfitters are listed in the province's "Hunting and Fishing Guide," available at provincial information centers or by calling tel. 800/563-6353.
Atlantic Canada has just one downhill ski area that I'd classify as a destination resort, and that's Marble Mountain, a 10-minute drive from Corner Brook. You can see its steep hills just north of the city. With a location near the Gulf of St. Lawrence, in the path of persistent northwest winds, it gets plenty of powder dumps, and the 1,700-ft. vertical drop is respectable. There are 35 runs on the 14-hectare (35-acre) property, including many open to snowboarding. Many skiers take advantage of packages that include airfare, lodging, lift tickets, and a rental car; ask for a brochure by calling tel. 888/462-7253 or 709/637-7600, or pointing your browser at www.skimarble.com. The park is reached by taking Exit 8 off the Trans-Canada Highway.
