Benton – Waterscapes, T’Railway and History

Benton lies on low-lying, mostly marshy terrain between Soulis Pond and Gander Lake. Near the south shore of Soulis Pond, Soulis Brook begins its course to Gander Lake. The waterways and the T’Railway running through Benton shape different aspects of the community: here, a landscape of ponds and brooks, a long trail across the island of Newfoundland, and a history of railways and logging come together.

Waterways and Protected Shorelines

Benton’s household water supply is also connected to a local water body: it comes from Little Pond. This area was designated a Protected Watershed in 1979. Limited passive recreational activities such as hiking and picnicking may be permitted there.

Along the shores of Soulis Pond and Soulis Brook, Benton’s regulations designate a Conservation Zone. Within 15 metres of these shores, development, vegetation removal, and changes to the topography are not permitted until a proposal has been referred for consultation about potential impacts on fish habitat. This is a specific aspect of the area’s character: the shoreline areas are not described as spaces that can be altered at will, but are subject to a regulation that takes potential impacts on fish habitat into account.

Cycling and Hiking on the T’Railway

The T’Railway Provincial Park runs through Benton. As a linear trail with numerous trestles and bridges, the T’Railway is well suited to cycling. The provincial trail also offers opportunities for hiking along more than 800 kilometres of gravel trail across the island of Newfoundland.

This contrast makes Benton an interesting destination for travellers who are drawn both to the landscape and to travelling along a linear trail. If you are looking for a vacation rental with a focus on nature experiences and cycling, the T’Railway is a clear point of interest. The waterscape adds Soulis Pond, Soulis Brook, and Little Pond to this picture, each connected to Benton in a different way.

Logging and Railway History

Benton’s settlement history is partly linked to the start of logging and a railway siding formerly operated by Canadian National. A sawmill was established in Benton in 1894, as the railway was being extended westward.

Granite from quarries near Benton is also part of this regional railway history. In the mid-to-late 19th century, it was worked into blocks that served as bridge abutments during construction of the Newfoundland Railway. If you are interested in technological and economic history, this detail connects Benton with railway construction on the island. It complements the history of the sawmill with another perspective on materials and construction work.

A Stop in the Community

Blossom Antique store has been recommended as a worthwhile stop in Benton. Together with the T’Railway and the community’s history, this named stop offers another way to discover Benton. When deciding whether to visit, you can consider whether you are most drawn to the trail, the waterways, or the history of railway expansion.

More community pages: Badger, Gander, Botwood.

For the broader travel overview: Division No. 6.