Article

Butter Pot Provincial Park

Published Online February 7, 2006

Last Edited April 21, 2015

Located on the Avalon Peninsula, Butter Pot Provincial Park (established 1958, 2833 ha) is 36 km southwest of St John's, Newfoundland, along the Trans-Canada Highway.

Located on the Avalon Peninsula, Butter Pot Provincial Park (established 1958, 2833 ha) is 36 km southwest of St John's, Newfoundland, along the Trans-Canada Highway.

Natural History
The terrain and vegetation is varied from forests to bogs, heaths and ponds. Glaciers played an important role in the landscape of the park. Erratics are located throughout and can easily be seen along the trails. The main vegetation type is Boreal Forest dominated by black spruce and balsam fir. On the abundant barren regions, the shallow soil is usually quite acidic. The plants supported by such a soil include sheep laurel, labrador tea, rhodora (Rhododendron canadense) and blueberry. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded in the park. Mammals such as moose, beaver, chipmunk, red squirrel and snowshoe hare are common.

Facilities
A popular summer destination, there are campsites, picnic areas, swimming areas, hiking trails and playgrounds. Interpreters conduct nature programs during the summer and fall. Cross-country ski trails are groomed during the winter months.