Smallwood Reservoir
Reservoir Large hydroelectric reservoir in central Newfoundland and Labrador
Large man-made reservoir in central Labrador used for hydroelectric generation; surrounding wilderness offers canoeing, remote fishing and backcountry travel. Access is limited and often requires river or floatplane logistics.
Smallwood Reservoir is a large impounded lake in western Labrador, Newfoundland and Labrador, created in association with mid-20th century hydroelectric development. It is one of the major freshwater reservoirs in the region.
The reservoir features an extensive, irregular shoreline with numerous islands and bays that attract anglers, canoeists and backcountry recreationists. The open water and archipelagic shoreline create long paddling routes and isolated fishing spots.
Smallwood Reservoir was formed during hydroelectric development on the Churchill River system in the mid-20th century to supply water storage for power generation. The flooding transformed the preexisting river and lake system into a large managed reservoir.
The reservoir lies in interior Labrador, north of coastal communities and in the general vicinity of the Churchill Falls hydroelectric complex, in a remote, sparsely populated part of Newfoundland and Labrador.
- Hydroelectric origin: The reservoir was created as part of the Churchill Falls hydroelectric developments and is one of the largest impounded lakes in Labrador, providing extensive shoreline and many islands.
- Access: Access is remote and commonly done by logging roads, floatplane or long drives; visitors should plan logistics carefully.
Tips for Visiting Smallwood Reservoir #
- Smallwood Reservoir is very remote-plan logistics thoroughly: arrange transport (often by floatplane, outfitter, or long access roads), confirm seasonal access, and expect minimal on-site services.
- Visit in summer for calm waters and boating/fishing access; many casual visitors miss the reservoir's extensive shoreline and secluded bays that are best explored by boat or with a local guide.
- If you're planning fishing or a lodge stay, book well in advance and verify permits and any hunting/fishing regulations with Newfoundland and Labrador authorities.
Best Time to Visit Smallwood Reservoir #
The best time to visit the reservoir is summer when weather and daylight favour boating and fishing.
Weather & Climate near Smallwood Reservoir #
Smallwood Reservoir's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cool summers (peaking in July) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -28°C to 17°C. Moderate rainfall (835 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -17°C and lows of -28°C. Moderate rainfall (55 mm).
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February
February is freezing with highs of -15°C and lows of -27°C. Moderate rainfall (46 mm).
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March
March is freezing with highs of -8°C and lows of -20°C. Moderate rainfall (57 mm).
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April
April is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (56 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 5°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (49 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 12°C and lows of 2°C. Regular rainfall (81 mm).
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July
July is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 7°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (107 mm).
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August
August is cool with highs of 16°C and lows of 7°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 10°C and lows of 3°C. Regular rainfall (95 mm).
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October
October is freezing with highs of 3°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (74 mm).
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November
November is freezing with highs of -4°C and lows of -12°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm).
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December
December is freezing with highs of -13°C and lows of -23°C. Moderate rainfall (55 mm).
