Signal Hill: Why It Tops Every Newfoundland Must-See List

Cabot Tower

You've seen it on every travel guide, but why does Signal Hill dominate St. John's must-visit lists? Let's start with what grabs you first—the jaw-dropping views—and then uncover the history that makes this place unforgettable.

Come with me to Signal Hill and experience the views that make you want to know the history.

1. The Views: A 360-Degree "Wow" Moment

You've just driven up a steep, winding road to the parking lot, where the Atlantic Ocean explodes into view—sheer cliffs, crashing waves, and trails beckoning you toward the water. But then you spot it: Cabot Tower, perched like a stone sentinel at the summit, demanding your attention.

- The Climb: A short (but steep) 300-meter hike leads you up. Pro tip: the wind coming off the water can chill even a warm day!

- The Payoff: At the top, the world opens up:

  - Ocean vistas where whales breach (June–August) and icebergs drift (April–June).

  - The Narrows, a dramatic harbor entrance where ships squeeze between cliffs.

  - St. John's spread out below, its colorful row houses glowing in the sunlight.

  - On clear days, Cape Spear—North America's easternmost point—glimmers in the distance.

Fun fact: One minute, it's postcard-perfect; the next, fog swallows everything. Newfoundland weather keeps you guessing!

Note:  There are lots of hikes and paths to take right from the parking lot but you may want to climb the hill to Cabot Tower first.

2. History You Can Feel

Standing here, it's obvious why this spot was strategic gold for centuries. Every ship entering St. John's had to pass under Signal Hill's watchful gaze—if the fog allowed.

Military Might

See the mounted guns

- Queen's Battery: Walk past old barracks and a replica cannon (yes, there's one there!) where British soldiers once guarded against French and American threats.

- Fort Amherst: Across the Narrows, its ruins whisper tales of crossfire defenses.

- Signaling Secrets: Flags, cannon blasts, and semaphore arms once shouted, "Friend or foe?" to the harbor below.

The Battle of Signal Hill (1762)

The last battle of the Seven Years' War in North America was a cliffhanger (literally): British troops scaled these heights at night to surprise the French, reclaiming St. John's by dawn.

3. "Firsts" That Changed the World

Signal Hill isn't just old—it's groundbreaking:

- ⚡ Marconi's Miracle (1901): The first transatlantic wireless signal (a Morse code "S") zapped here from England, revolutionizing communication.

- ⚔️ WWII Watchdog: Its cliffs hosted anti-aircraft guns during the Battle of the Atlantic, hunting U-boats.

🏴‍☠️ Pirate Alerts: The only time Britain fortified against American invasion (1770s).

4. Cabot Tower: More Than Just a Pretty Face

Built in 1897 to honor John Cabot's voyage and Queen Victoria's reign, this tower isn't just a photo op:

- Marconi's legacy lives on inside (find the plaque!).

- Climb its steps for views that'll steal your breath—if the wind hasn't already.

- Fun detail: The local sandstone? Quarried right from the hill. No imports needed!

Why You'll Love It

Signal Hill doesn't just tell history—it shows it. You'll leave with windblown hair, a camera full of scenic pics (including possibly even icebergs or whales), and a brain buzzing with tales of wars and pirates.

Visit any time of the day: Visit at sunrise for magical light—or foggy twilight for moody drama. Either way, you'll get why this hill signals something special.