Gros Morne National Park

Absolutely stunning national park! So many highlights, we wish we had allocated more than 48 hours! My husband loved his hike up Gros Morne Mountain. The boat tour on Western Brook Pond was amazing, as was the hike in Tablelands and visit to the Discovery center. Park rangers were helpful in all places. 100% must see.

I visited three times while I lived in Newfoundland and loved it every time. It’s such a nice park whether one goes camping or stays in a hotel in Rocky Harbour. Western Brook Pond is truly amazing. It’s a ~700 km drive from St John’s and not too far from L’Anse aux Meadows. It’s such a wonderful place. I stayed at the Lomond site when camping.

I could spend only half a day. But I really needed much more. Comparing landscapes in AB, there are different ways you can go through the mountain and enjoy something! Camping, swimming, hiking, biking and maybe fishing @ some points, are the different things you can do in different zones. Even just driving is still great! There were some spots right beside the lakes with beautiful coast to stop by and get wet! Regarding wildlife, you may see caribou, porcupine, raccoon, coyote which can be a unique experience. Strongly recommended!

Such an amazing site with amazing viewpoints everywhere. Driving through the park is already an experience in itself as you have to concentrate on the road and avoid watching the sights you get. Parks Canada seems to have this place very well maintained on every level, roads, trails and cleanliness.

Gros Morne National Park is a natural treasure trove offering a diverse range of experiences for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. With its dramatic landscapes, rich geological history, and charming coastal towns, this park is a must-visit for any traveler to Newfoundland. Day One: Southern Exploration -Morning: Begin your journey at the Western Brook Discovery Centre. This state-of-the-art facility provides an excellent introduction to the park's geology, wildlife, and history. Immerse yourself in interactive exhibits and informative displays. - Afternoon: Book a Western Brook Fjord boat tour. This is an absolute must-do to experience the fjord's towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and serene beauty. The tour typically lasts several hours, providing ample time to appreciate the natural wonder. Optional Activities: - Visit the nearby Woody Point to explore charming shops and indulge in fresh seafood. - Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Green Point Geological Site to witness firsthand the region's geological history. Day Two: Northern Discoveries - Morning: Embark on the iconic Tablelands hike. This otherworldly landscape, a remnant of the Earth's mantle, is a geological marvel. The hike is relatively easy and offers stunning panoramic views. Remember to bring your camera to capture the unique rock formations. - Afternoon: Drive to the charming town of Norris Point for lunch and explore the local shops. Consider taking a boat tour of Bonne Bay to experience the park's coastal beauty from a different perspective. Park Highlights and Tips - Dog-friendly: Gros Morne National Park is largely dog-friendly, allowing you to explore with your furry companion. However, there are restrictions in certain areas, such as the Tablelands. - Hiking: The park offers a variety of hiking trails to suit all fitness levels. Some popular options include the Tablelands Trail, the Burnt Hill Trail, and the trails around Bonne Bay. - Wildlife: Keep an eye out for moose, black bears, and various bird species. - Photography: The park's stunning landscapes provide endless opportunities for photography. - Park Passes: Purchase a park pass at the entrance to gain access to all park facilities. - Accommodation: There are various accommodation options within and around the park, from campgrounds to hotels. - Best Time to Visit: The park is beautiful in all seasons, but the summer months offer the longest daylight hours for exploring. Additional Day: Extending Your Adventure If you have an extra day, consider these options: Explore the Long Range Mountains, the park's northernmost region, for challenging hikes and remote wilderness experiences. Visit the Bonne Bay Marine Station to learn about marine life and ecosystems. Take a kayaking or canoeing tour to explore the park's waterways from a different perspective. By following this itinerary, you can experience the best of Gros Morne National Park and create unforgettable memories. Remember to pack accordingly for the weather, bring essential hiking gear, and respect the park's natural environment.

Avery unusual place with dramatic scenery, interesting plant and geological diversity. There are many hiking trails of various distances and difficulty.

Completed the long range traverse hike in July. In hindsight I would have brought my fleece as evening temperatures were getting down to single digits. Lots of wet weather made for some wet trails therefore enjoyed the extra pairs of socks I brought. Would highly recommend the hike but it isn’t easy. The initial ascent is quite steep especially when you have all the weight for your full journey. Views can be stunning but can also close in with fog. Make sure you are comfortable with maps and knowing how to use a topographic map prior to coming. This isn’t the spot to be learning, but if you are comfortable, this is a fun (and tiring) hike. Completed the hike in two nights on the trail, started the hike late on the first day. Planned to slow down and enjoy the trail more but with bad weather we kept going and finished early. Watch the weather as the descent off of the top of the hills on the last day are down ravines that could be tricky during rain. Took in Gros Morne Mountain at the end, which is a great add on. For logistics, we flew into Deer Lake and rented a car to drive up to the park. You have to pass a navigation test (map and compass) at the park HQ before they will give you a pass for the trail. To start the hike you need to take a boat tour into Western Brook Pond, and they will not allow you off the boat without the pass. We arranged for a cab to pick us at the end of the hike parking lot (entrance to the Gros Morne Mountain trail) and left the vehicle there. Then took the cab north up to the boat tour. To make things all work on the day we flew in, we ended up taking the later boat tour. This meant that we were getting off the boat in the evening. It worked for us but it is something to consider as it did not leave a lot of hiking time before nightfall. Flight schedules have also changed a bit so will need to check the new schedules. There is a lot of water sources along the trail so you don’t need a pile of water but bring a good water filter.

This park is so big that we didn't manage to see everything. We were selective because it was impossible in one day to see everything and make the most of it.