Difficulty
Moderate
Trail Length
3.1 km
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
138 m
About Overfall
Overfall is a coastal/near-coastal waterfall feature located on the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland and Labrador near Argentia (approximately 16 miles from Argentia town). Features at this location appear to be relatively small and tied to local streams and coastal topology rather than a large inland cascade. Exact published details on height, formal trails, and facilities are limited; local/visitor reports suggest a natural, undeveloped setting with rocky shorelines, spruce and bog vegetation, and variable flow depending on season and recent precipitation.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Overfall flows over layered sedimentary rock laid down about 539 million to 1.0 billion years ago. Over time, the stream has worn through these layers at different rates, creating the step that forms the waterfall.
Trail & Hike Details
The Approach
The moderate 3.1-km out-and-back trail gains 138 metres of elevation on the way to the falls.
Trail Description
There is little published information describing a maintained trail to Overfall. Access appears to be informal and may require walking over uneven, rocky, or boggy ground from a roadside pullout or coastal access point. Expect short, possibly steep scrambles onto coastal rock or stream banks rather than a developed boardwalk or well-marked path. Because trail details are not well-documented, treat approach as basic off-trail navigation and prepare accordingly.
What to Expect
A natural, undeveloped coastal waterfall or stream drop with variable flow. Surroundings likely include spruce, low shrubs, moss, and boggy ground typical of coastal Newfoundland. Rocks will be wet and slippery; tidal influence may affect the lower reaches if the stream meets the ocean. No visitor facilities (toilets, formal viewpoints, signage) are expected. Cell service may be intermittent.
Accessibility
The trail is not wheelchair accessible. Uneven terrain and elevation changes require steady footing.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Overfall?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Overfall?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring through early summer often offers higher flows from snowmelt and spring rain, and generally milder weather for coastal access. Low tides can provide easier access to shoreline viewpoints if the waterfall meets the ocean, but flow will be highest after rain or during spring melt.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with the managing park or local authority for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards may include slippery and unstable rocks, sudden drops or cliffs, strong currents near the ocean, changing tides (if the stream meets the sea), cold water, rapidly changing coastal weather, and limited cell coverage. Do not turn your back on the ocean if on coastal rocks. Because detailed trail information is limited, plan conservatively, wear appropriate footwear, and avoid approaching edges in wet or icy conditions. Check local authorities or visitor centres for the latest access and safety information.
Current Water Conditions
0.6 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 15 years of record
72.50 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a nearby waterway and may not reflect exact conditions at the falls.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Argentia hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
Approximate coordinates: 47.5294, -53.8862. From Argentia (≈16 miles), travel by road toward the nearest coastal access points (local roads in the Placentia/Argentia area). Exact vehicle approach and final access route are not documented in official trail sources; expect unpaved local roads and short off-trail walking to reach the shoreline/stream mouth. Visitors should consult local maps or contact regional visitor centres in Placentia/Argentia for current access details.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
No formal parking area is documented. Parking may be limited to roadside pullouts or informal spaces near the access point. Check for private property signs and local restrictions before parking.
Elevation
34 metres above sea level
Coordinates
47.529432° N, -53.886202° W
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Wear waterproof, grippy footwear for wet and slippery rock surfaces. 2) Dress in layers and bring wind/rain protection, weather changes rapidly on the coast. 3) Check tide tables if approaching the waterfall near the shoreline. 4) Respect private property, do not cross fences or posted land without permission. 5) Bring a map, GPS or downloaded offline map; cell coverage may be limited. 6) Tell someone your plans and expected return time for remote accesses.
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With 3.1 km and 138 m of elevation gain, sturdy boots and trekking poles will help on this moderate trail. Icy conditions are common in winter — traction cleats are a smart addition.
Columbia Watertight II Rain Jacket
Packs into its own pocket, seam-sealed, and keeps you dry from spray and surprise rain.
Earth Pak Waterproof Dry Bag
Keeps your phone and gear dry when waterfall mist soaks everything else.
Waterproof Phone Pouch (AiRunTech)
Cheap insurance — take photos right next to the falls without killing your phone.
Timberland Euro Sprint Mid Waterproof
Trusted waterproof boot with premium leather and grippy rubber sole — reliable on rocky, wet trails.
TrailBuddy Trekking Poles
Lightweight aluminum, cork grips, and flip-locks that actually hold — a best-seller for good reason.
Kahtoola MICROspikes
Cult-favorite traction cleats that grip ice and wet rock — essential for winter waterfall hikes.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Jack's Pond Park and Campground
25.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Nearby communities and points of interest may include Argentia and Placentia Bay coastal sites. The Avalon Peninsula has numerous coastal views, historic sites, and seabird/wildlife viewing areas; Ferryland and Cape St. Mary's (seabird colonies) are regionally notable attractions though not immediately adjacent to this pinpointed location.
Wildlife
Expect typical coastal Newfoundland wildlife: seabirds, shorebirds, marine mammals offshore (seals, occasionally whales), and terrestrial mammals such as red fox and, less commonly, moose in nearby inland areas. Insects (black flies/mosquitoes) can be numerous in summer; bring repellant.
Cities near Overfall
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