DEER LAKE GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Rugged SxS Backcountry — Eight Hours Through Newfoundland’s Forgotten Roads
An 8-hour private side-by-side (SxS) guided tour that pushes deep into Deer Lake’s abandoned logging and forestry roads; this guide explains what to expect and what to pack.
Rugged SxS Backcountry — Eight Hours Through Newfoundland’s Forgotten Roads.
Adventure brief
Rugged SxS Backcountry — Eight Hours Through Newfoundland’s Forgotten Roads
Set off from Deer Lake for a full-day, 8-hour exploration of Newfoundland’s remote backcountry. The Private SxS Explore Tour follows abandoned logging and old forestry roads that thread through wild, cell-service–free terrain, offering close-up encounters with moose, black bears and other native wildlife, repeated mountain viewpoints and a pond-side boil-up lunch.
Tucked away in Newfoundland and Labrador’s rugged interior near Deer Lake, Rob Clarke Motorsports offers a private 8-hour Side-by-Side (SxS) tour that blends off-road thrills with deep wilderness immersion. This isn’t your typical trail ride—it’s a demanding venture along abandoned logging roads and weathered forest routes that span the island’s vast backcountry. Drivers will tackle rocky trails and uneven terrain that test both skill and machine, offering a hands-on way to experience Newfoundland’s wilder side.
As you navigate these remote trails, moose often watch silently from the treeline, and black bears may cross your path, reminding you that you’re in authentic wilderness. The tour routes provide jaw-dropping views of the Appalachian Mountains’ rugged ridges and dense boreal forests. Along the way, a well-earned lunch break comes with a traditional Newfoundlander boil-up served by a quiet pond, where anglers might try for trout or simply soak in the solitude.
Rob Clarke Motorsports stands apart because it offers access to terrain few visitors ever see, with expert local guides who know how to balance adventure with safety. The nature here is raw and primal—dense spruce, balsam fir, and scattered stands of trembling aspen form the backdrop, while the occasional coyote or red fox weaves unseen through the undergrowth.
Whether you’re an experienced off-roader or a first-timer eager to push your limits, this tour turns a mechanical ride into a full-day wilderness experience. It’s a unique way to connect with Newfoundland’s rugged landscape far from the usual tourist routes. Perfect for travelers seeking an authentic adventure with the reliable expertise of Rob Clarke Motorsports, located near the gateway town of Deer Lake.
Route Schematic
Route Schematic & Key Stops
The tour threads a sequence of abandoned logging roads, backcountry sections and scenic stops—typical highlights are listed below.
Abandoned Logging Roads
Enter a network of old forestry and logging roads that make up the bulk of the route—rugged conditions that test driving skills and vehicle durability.
Deep Backcountry Sections
Venture well into areas with no cell service, where guides navigate through remote landscapes and wildlife habitat.
Pond or Creek Lunch Stop
Pause at a quiet pond or creek for a boil-up lunch and an opportunity to try for trout in a serene setting.
Appalachian Mountain Viewpoints
Multiple viewing areas along the route offer sweeping perspectives of the Appalachian Mountain foothills.
Drivers must meet operator age rules (19+, or 16+ with parental supervision); expect remote terrain and no cell service—routes may be adjusted by the guide for safety and conditions.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Abandoned Logging Roads and Mountain Vistas
The day is spent on rugged logging and old forestry roads that span remote sections of the island, with multiple viewing areas that open onto the Appalachian Mountain foothills.
Frequent Wildlife Encounters
Expect to share the trails with moose, caribou and black bears, plus coyotes, foxes and a variety of birds—wildlife is a regular part of the backcountry experience.
Pond-side Boil-up Lunch and Trout Attempts
Midday stops include breaks at ponds or creeks for a traditional boil-up lunch; guides often give guests time to fish for trout while soaking in the remote setting.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
This is a full, hands-on backcountry day: you’ll leave main trails to test machine and driver on rough, remote tracks, pause at quiet ponds for lunch and fishing attempts, and climb to several viewing areas that frame the Appalachian Mountains—the route is deliberately away from cell coverage and civilization.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this tour suits — and who should reconsider.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
This is an 8-hour private tour that runs deep into the backcountry; plan for a full day away from services.
Bring a change of dry clothes (summer and winter), extra dry socks and gloves, any protective gear you normally use (operator provides motocross-style helmets and goggles), extra medications, and a small backpack for water, lunch and dry clothes.
Trail/crossover SxS rental, certified backcountry guide, fuel and oil, and motocross-style helmets and goggles are included.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the tour?
The Private SxS Explore Tour is an 8-hour experience.
What are the driver age requirements?
Drivers must be 19 or older, or 16+ if accompanied by parental supervision.
Are there age limits for passengers?
There are no age requirements for passengers.
Is safety equipment provided?
Motocross-style helmets and goggles are provided; participants should also bring any personal protective equipment they would normally wear.
What’s included in the trip price?
Included are the trail/crossover SxS rental, a certified backcountry guide, fuel and oil, plus helmets and goggles.
Will I have cell phone reception?
No—parts of the route go deep into the backcountry and have no cell service.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-09-12T12:12:30.529Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.