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Gros Morne Mountain

Gros Morne is the second highest peak on the island of Newfoundland, exceeded only by Lewis Hill. Often capped with clouds, or clothed in fog or snow, the mountain’s mystery is reflected in its name: Gros Morne… big lone mountain. 

This 806 m high flat-topped mountain is a slice of Arctic tundra far south of its usual range. The habitat is a heaven for rock ptarmigan, Arctic hare, and woodland caribou. Around the summit, there are views of a spectacular glacial-carved landscape: the deep fjord arms of Bonne Bay and the U-shaped trough of Ten Mile Pond. 

Hiking the Mountain

One of the most popular hikes in Newfoundland, and for good reason; there are two distinct ways to experience the big lone mountain depending on your desires, fitness level, and weather 

To the Base and Back

Distance: 9km – moderate. Open year-round

A mountain is more than its summit, and depending on the person, and the day, a stroll to the base of Gros Morne, might be the right decision!

The 4.5 km climb, takes you past views of the mountain punctuated by numerous waterfalls before opening up to views of Bonne Bay and a cluster of small ponds at the base of the mountain, at an elevation of 320 m. Make your way back down the same path to the Parking lot for a 9km round trip.

Whole Mountain

Distance: 17km – difficult. Trail Closed May 1st – Last Friday in June

Taking on the entire hike is a full-day affair and requires planning appropriately. 

After leaving the base, the trail takes you up a very steep boulder gully to the summit of the mountain (500-meter climb, which takes an hour or more to cover ~1km). The summit of the mountain can be a very harsh place, so be prepared for rapid temperature changes, lack of water, high wind, and blistering sun. This is the most challenging part of the hike and is not recommended for small children. 

After the summit, there can be a sense of accomplishment, but don’t let your guard down yet!  With nearly 10km left to hike, and the descent thru ferry gulch being no easy task, pace yourself, and rest as you need it. 

Planning & Safety

Before You Head Out

It is very important to be well prepared before undertaking this hike. This is not an easy hike!!

  • There is no food, shelter, or water available on the mountain. Be prepared for changes in weather as well as cooler and windier conditions on the mountain.
  • The complete trail is 17km long, a seven to eight hour hike at a leisurely pace. To fully enjoy the wildlife and spectacular scenery along this trail, be sure to allow yourself enough time
  • Check weather and trail conditions
  • Pick up your Park Pass prior to hiking the mountain.

We recommend:

  • Water (at least 3 litres of water per person) since none is available on the mountain.
  • Warm clothing and a windbreaker or warm coat (waterproof gear recommended) to counter the wind and unpredictable weather.
  • Sturdy broken-in footwear.
  • Sunscreen, Hat for warmth and/or sun
  • Please stay on the trail, both for your safety and to reduce your effect on fragile environments.
  • Carry out all of your garbage. Buried trash is still trash.
  • We recommend that visitors do not take their dogs to the summit of Gros Morne Mountain as there are risks to both dogs and wildlife. The hike to the summit can be incredibly challenging for dogs, as the rocks can cut their feet and there is a lack of access to water. The presence of dogs on the mountain can also disturb the unique wildlife that call Gros Morne mountain home – such as the Arctic hare, caribou and rock ptarmigan. Although we discourage visitors from taking dogs to the summit of Gros Morne Mountain, they are permitted if they are under physical control with a leash.
  • Leave everything as you find it. Do not pick plants or collect rocks, fossils, or anything else (other than litter!) This will ensure that others can also enjoy the features of this trail.
  • Do not build fire pits, shelters, or rock cairns.

 

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The Tablelands

In the heart of Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland, lies an otherworldly landscape that defies expectations and reveals a glimpse into the Earth’s ancient past. The Tablelands, a geological wonder only seen a few places on the planet, showcases a rare phenomenon where a portion of the Earth’s mantle has been thrust up through the crust. This extraordinary natural site, forged over half a billion years, stands as a testament to the remarkable forces of geology and offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness the Earth’s inner soul exposed like never before.

There are a number of ways to enjoy the Tablelands, regardless of the season

Parks Canada Guided Interpretive Walk
Tablelands Trail (2h) June 1 – 30, 10:00 am Sun. Tues, Thurs, Sat. July 1 – Sept 3, everyday.
As you step onto the Tablelands, you find yourself immersed in a landscape that appears more akin to Mars than Newfoundland. Parks Canada guides will help you explore this bizarre and beautiful landscape, the glacially carved valleys and the unique plants and vegetation that call the Tablelands their home! This two-hour guided hike will prepare you to better understand the world significant geology of Gros Morne as you explore the park.

Parks Canada Guided Tour App
Looking to do the Tablelands walk at your own pace, on your schedule? Parks Canada has created a free app, or pick up a device at the Discovery Centre – included in your park pass – and hit the trails!

Download the app through App Store or Google Play.

Self- Guided Day Hikes

You can enjoy both marked and off-trail experiences in the Tablelands, whether your looking for a quick stroll or full day adventure. Map of the Tablelands $3 map or $5 waterproof map. Available at the Discovery Centre and the Visitor Centre.

Tablelands Hiking Trail – 4km return easy
Walk the old roadbed as it skirts the base of the Tablelands; You will see unusual plants and rocks as you enjoy broad panoramic views. The trail ends in the glacially carved Winter House Brook Canyon.

Trout River Pond Trail – 14km return, moderate.
Hike the path less traveled along the shore of Trout River Pond fjord, and into the heart of the Tablelands taking in Elephant Head and its contrasting granite cliffs.
Lookout Trail – 5km return – moderate
Enjoy the steady climb to one of the best panoramic vistas in the park. From the platform atop Partridgeberry Hill, enjoy the spectacular view of Bonne Bay, Gros Morne Mountain, and the Tablelands.

Drive Scenic Route 431
The road between Woody Point and Trout River is truly one of the most spectacular you’ll see.  What strikes you most is the contrast of colour between the mountains that tower above you. One side is lush green; the other, a brilliant, amber colour – all divided, it would seem, by the yellow line of the highway.

Scenic Boat Tour
Wild Gros Morne’s zodiac boat tour provides unsurpassed views deep into the glacier carved Trout River Pond of both the towering Tablelands, and sheer granite North Arm Mountains.

Multimedia Show
Gros Morne: An Earth Odyssey Evening Program: Visitor Centre (1h) July 1 – Sept 3., Sun., Wed. 7:00pm.
Join a zany traveller sent from another galaxy who accepts a mission to learn more about planet Earth by uncovering the reasons for the UNESCO World Heritage designation at Gros Morne National Park. Discover Gros Morne’s unique geology in an out-of-this-world multimedia show!

Visiting the Tablelands is not only an opportunity for personal discovery but also a chance to cultivate a deeper understanding of the Earth’s intricate geological processes. As you explore this ancient landscape, take a moment to reflect on the immense power and beauty that lies within our planet’s core. The Tablelands serve as a reminder of the vastness and complexity of the natural world and the importance of protecting these unique environments for future generations.

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