The west coast region of the island of Newfoundland is made up of mountains. Some flat-topped mountains reach to over 790m.
The Humber and Grand Codroy rivers have cut valleys through the west coast region. Most of the valley slopes and flatlands are covered with deep glacial soil. This soil supports rich forests. Level land around Deer Lake is the result of past glacial work. Raised deltas around St. George’s Bay are also the work of glaciers.
Winters in the west coast region are cold but not severe. Sea and harbour ice may block the Bay of Islands for a month in late winter. Summer temperatures average 16° C.
People have settled along the coast in this region or along the Humber or Codroy rivers. Towns on the coast have relied on the fishery. The inland region supports forestry and hydro projects. Good soils in Deer Lake, St. George’s Bay and the Codroy Valley support farming. Gypsum and limestone have been quarried in this region.
Corner Brook in the Bay of Islands is the largest centre on the west coast. It has a population of 20,105. Corner Brook is a centre for industry, trade, education, health and transportation.