Cliff Jumping At Grand Falls – Windsor

Now, b’ys, let me tell ya—if you ever find yourself standin’ at the edge of a waterfall, peerin’ down into the churnin’ waters below, wonderin’ if ya got the nerve to take the leap… well, that’s the kinda moment that puts the “unknown” in Adventures Unknown. And that’s exactly where I found meself in this episode, right in the heart of Newfoundland, in Grand Falls-Windsor.

Now, I’ve done some wild things in me time—shark fishin’ off Braggs Island, campin’ in the middle of nowhere, even gettin’ stuck in the mud more times than I care to admit—but heights? Heights ain’t exactly me best friend. So when someone said, “Donny, let’s go cliff jumpin’,” I did what any self-respectin’ Newfoundlander would do. I said, “Oh sure, b’y!” while secretly wonderin’ what in the name of sweet suffering I’d gotten meself into.

But this episode wasn’t just about takin’ the plunge. It was about explorin’ Grand Falls-Windsor, a town rich with history, adventure, and some of the finest folks you’ll ever meet. And let me tell ya—if you’re thinkin’ about takin’ a trip out this way, you’re in for a real treat.

Grand Falls-Windsor: More Than Just a Jump

Grand Falls-Windsor sits smack dab in the middle of Newfoundland, a town built around the mighty Exploits River. Back in the day, this place was known for its pulp and paper mill, which brought workers from all over and turned it into a proper boomtown. But even before all that, the river was the heart of the place, flowin’ strong and providin’ for generations of fishers, loggers, and adventurers.

When I arrived, I took some time to walk around town, chat with the locals, and soak it all in. There’s somethin’ about Newfoundland towns—everybody’s got a story, and they’re more than happy to share it over a cup of tea or a pint down at the pub.

But I wasn’t just here for a history lesson. I had a waterfall to jump off. 

Facin’ the Falls: The Jump That Nearly Had Me Turn Tail

Alright, so here’s the scene. We hiked our way to this spot along the Exploits River, a place where the water tumbles down in a perfect, crystal-clear fall, creatin’ a deep pool below. Now, from the bottom, it looks beautiful—peaceful, even. But from the top? That’s a different story.

Standin’ there, lookin’ down at the water far, far below, me stomach did a little flip. The roar of the falls filled me ears, the mist clung to me skin, and I had one of those moments where ya think, What kinda eejit agrees to somethin’ like this?

But there was no backin’ down now. The cameras were rollin’, the crew was eggin’ me on, and let’s be honest—I wasn’t about to let me pride take a hit on national television.

So I took a deep breath, said a quiet little prayer to the good Lord above, and leapt.

And b’ys, let me tell ya—there’s nothin’ like the feelin’ of free fallin’ through the air, the wind rushin’ past ya, knowin’ that in a second, you’re about to hit the water like a sack of bricks. And when I did, the cold of the river hit me like a wake-up call from the universe itself. I came up gaspin’, heart racin’, grinnin’ like a fool, and yellin’ “I DID IT!”

I won’t lie—that was one of the biggest rushes of me life. And the best part? I wanted to do it again. 

What Else to Do in Grand Falls-Windsor

Now, if you’re comin’ out this way and you ain’t up for chuckin’ yourself off a cliff, don’t worry—there’s plenty more to do. Here’s a few must-see spots:

Outdoor Adventures

  • White-Water Rafting on the Exploits River – If you’re lookin’ for a thrill, book a rafting tour and take on the rapids. It’s a wicked time, and the views are somethin’ else.
  • Corduroy Brook Nature Trail – A beautiful little hike that’ll take ya through forests and wetlands, perfect for a relaxed day outside.
  • Salmonid Interpretation Centre – Ever wondered how salmon make their way upstream? This place has underwater viewing windows where you can watch them in action.

 

Local Culture and Festivals

  • Exploits Valley Salmon Festival – If you’re lucky enough to be here in July, this festival is a time—live music, good food, and a whole lotta fun.
  • Gordon Pinsent Centre for the Arts – Named after one of Newfoundland’s finest actors, this theatre hosts concerts, plays, and all sorts of entertainment year-round. 

Where to Stay: Restin’ Up After an Adventure

After a long day of jumpin’, hikin’, or raftin’, you’ll need a cozy place to crash. Here’s a couple of options:

  • Mount Peyton Resort and Conference Centre – A solid choice with comfy rooms and a restaurant right on-site.
  • Hotel Robin Hood – Yep, that’s its real name. A friendly, affordable spot with great service. 

Where to Eat: Fillin’ Your Belly

All that adventurin’ works up an appetite, and Grand Falls-Windsor’s got some great spots to grab a bite:

  • Juniper Kitchen & Bistro – If you’re lookin’ for somethin’ a little fancy but still down-to-earth, this spot’s got wicked good food.
  • The Third Place Cafe – A cozy café with good coffee, homemade treats, and a warm atmosphere.
  • Lefty’s Pizzeria & Lounge – When ya just want a good ol’ slice of pizza and a cold drink, this is the place.

Final Thoughts

This episode of Adventures Unknown reminded me why I do what I do. Newfoundland is full of places that’ll test your limits, push ya past your comfort zone, and reward ya with memories that last a lifetime. Grand Falls-Windsor gave me one of the biggest thrills of me life, and I know it’ll do the same for anyone willin’ to take the leap.

So, if you’re lookin’ for an adventure, book your trip, pack your bags, and come see for yourself. And who knows—maybe I’ll see ya at the top of the falls, just before you take the plunge. 

Watch the Episode Here:

Adventures Unknown (Episode 3)