The Topsails takes its name from the surrounding landscape which includes Main Topsail, Mizzen Topsail, Gaff Topsail and Fore Topsail which are geologically classified as monadnocks. The Topsails rise 61–122 metres (200–400 feet) above the general surface of the central plateau of Newfoundland. It is a barren land, rocky and windswept and in winter is renowned for its tremendous snowdrifts. The area is known for its spectacular scenery and in winter the huge snowdrifts that played havoc with the railway.