Northern · Newfoundland and Labrador (Labrador)
Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve
Labrador's wild Mealy Mountains — co-managed with the Innu and Inuit.
Province
Newfoundland and Labrador (Labrador)
Established
2015
Size
10,700 km²
Coordinates
53.50°, -59.00°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve
Canada's second-largest national park east of the Rockies, the Mealys are a roadless wilderness of taiga, tundra, white sand beaches at Wunderstrands, and a herd of woodland caribou. Access is by boat, plane, or guided expedition only.
Why visit
- Wunderstrands — 50 km of white sand beach
- Mealy Mountains plateau
- Co-managed with Innu and Inuit nations
- True remote wilderness
Things to do
Plan your days.
Guided multi-day boat charter
boating
Wilderness expedition (with operator)
hiking
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Wilderness camping only — full self-sufficiency required
Best time to visit
- Spring
- Sea ice often lingers into June.
- Summer
- July–August: only practical window.
- Fall
- September: rapid temperature drop.
- Winter
- Closed to most visitation.
- Peak
- July and August.
- Shoulder
- Late June or early September.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Limited; this is wilderness reserved largely for science and Indigenous stewardship.
Common species
Black bear · Snowshoe hare · Common loon
Signature species
Woodland caribou · Wolverine · Black bear
Wildlife safety
Plan with a licensed operator; communications limited.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Cartwright
- Happy Valley-Goose Bay
- Rigolet
Nearby attractions
- Trans-Labrador Highway
- Torngat Mountains (further north)
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
7 day
Labrador expedition
Week-long guided coastal expedition.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve.
Can I camp in Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve?+
Yes. Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve operates Parks Canada campgrounds with a mix of frontcountry sites and, on most loops, oTENTik or backcountry options.
Do I need reservations to visit Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve?+
Yes — campsite reservations are required during peak season and open via the Parks Canada Reservation Service in mid-winter.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes — dogs are welcome on a leash (max 3 m) throughout the park, but must be supervised at all times and kept off closed trails and beaches with wildlife restrictions.
Is Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve family friendly?+
Our family score is 4/10. Better suited to teens and adults — expect remote conditions and limited services.
When is the best time to visit Akami-Uapishkᵁ-KakKasuak-Mealy Mountains National Park Reserve?+
July and August. Shoulder seasons reward visitors with fewer crowds and softer light, while winter opens its own set of opportunities (or, in the far north, closes road access entirely).
What wildlife can I see?+
Signature species include woodland caribou, wolverines and black bears. Always keep at least 30 m from large mammals and 100 m from bears; carry bear spray on backcountry trails.
Can I bring an RV?+
RV access is limited or unavailable; this park is best explored by tent, backcountry travel or day trips from nearby communities.
How many days should I spend here?+
Seven to ten days.
Nearby parks
