Welcome to Gros Morne National Park
485 million years in the making.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gros Morne National Park is where Newfoundland and Labrador’s natural and cultural landscapes meet. 1,805 square kilometres of rugged mountains, ancient fjords, and dramatic coastlines all entwined with communities full of creativity and character. Consider us your guide to planning it all – from hiking trails and boat tours to delicious food and live entertainment.
Must-See Sites
Gros Morne is a landscape of dramatic contrasts, where soaring granite cliffs meet the rust-coloured expanse of the earth’s deep mantle. These signature locations are the heart of our UNESCO World Heritage status, offering a rare and humbling glimpse into the raw forces that shaped our planet.
Gros Morne Mountain
Gros Morne (meaning “big lone mountain”) is the second-highest peak on the island of Newfoundland, rising 806 m above a landscape shaped by glaciers. Its flat-topped summit holds a rare patch of Arctic tundra, home to rock ptarmigan, Arctic hare, and woodland caribou, with sweeping views of Bonne Bay and Ten Mile Pond.
There are two ways to experience the mountain. A 9 km return hike to the base offers a moderate route with waterfalls, ponds, and stunning views, and is open year-round. The full 17 km summit loop is a challenging full-day hike with steep ascents, rugged terrain, and rapidly changing conditions.
Before heading out, plan carefully. There is no food, shelter, or water on the mountain, and the weather can shift quickly. Bring at least 3 litres of water per person, warm layers, sturdy footwear, and sun protection. Stay on the trail, pack out what you pack in, and consider leaving dogs at home, as the summit terrain and wildlife habitat can be difficult for them. This hike is not recommended for young children.
NOTE: To protect wildlife during critical weeks of growth and reproduction, this trail is closed annually to hikers from May 1st through to the end of June.
For more information, visit Parks Canada – Gros Morne Mountain.
The Tablelands
The Tablelands are one of Gros Morne’s most remarkable features – a rare place where the Earth’s mantle has been pushed to the surface, creating a rust-coloured, otherworldly landscape seen in only a few places worldwide. Formed over half a billion years, this ancient terrain offers a striking contrast to the surrounding green mountains and provides an exceptional window into the planet’s geological past.
Visitors can explore the Tablelands in multiple ways. Guided walks run daily in summer with Parks Canada staff to explain the geology, valleys, and unique plants, or you can use the free guided tour app for a self-paced experience. For hikers, options range from the easy 4 km Tablelands Trail, to the moderate 5 km Lookout Trail, and the 14 km Trout River Pond Trail. Scenic drives along Route 431 and zodiac boat tours on Trout River Pond provide spectacular views from the road and water.
Whether you’re hiking, driving, or paddling, the Tablelands offer a chance to witness the raw forces that shaped our planet. Take time to appreciate this rare landscape, follow marked trails, and leave it as you found it, so future visitors can experience the same sense of wonder.
For more information, visit Parks Canada – The Tablelands.
Western Brook Pond
Nestled in the heart of Gros Morne National Park, Western Brook Pond is a stunning fjord and a must-see destination in western Newfoundland. Whether you take the scenic 6 km return hike, enjoy a guided boat tour, or challenge yourself with a backcountry trek to the viewpoint, the dramatic cliffs, emerald waters, and waterfalls create an unforgettable experience.
The hiking trail is accessible year-round, with gentle grades that welcome a wide range of visitors, including cyclists and those using off-road wheelchairs. As you approach the pond, the towering cliffs and tranquil waters offer breathtaking views, perfect for pausing and soaking in the serenity of the landscape.
For a different perspective, the boat tour (mid-May to mid-October) glides through the fjord with expert guides sharing the geological and cultural history. For those seeking adventure, a backcountry hike to the top of the gorge delivers a challenging off-trail experience with extraordinary views. No matter how you explore it, Western Brook Pond showcases the raw beauty and power of nature, making it a highlight of any visit to Gros Morne.
For more information, visit Parks Canada – Western Brook Pond.
Seven Corners Project
In Gros Morne, every community has a story to tell. Look for these seven unique installations that bring those stories to life. Alongside stunning views, you’ll find interpretive panels and, in some locations, interactive pre-recorded storytelling – connecting you to the heritage and landscapes that shape the park.
Regions to Explore
Gros Morne National Park is home to seven communities – each with its own history, character, and activities to discover. It’s about a two-hour drive from the southern community of Trout River to the northern tip at Cow Head, which gives you plenty of opportunities to take in the park’s stunning landscapes along the way.
North
The northern region of the park is home to the communities of Cow Head, St. Paul’s, and Sally’s Cove. Highlights here include the iconic Western Brook Pond Fjord and hiking trail, Theatre Newfoundland Labrador in Cow Head, the family-friendly Shallow Bay Beach, and the scenic Cow Head Lighthouse Trail.
Central
The central region includes Rocky Harbour, the largest town in the region and the main gateway to the park, and Norris Point, a scenic community on the shores of Bonne Bay. Key attractions in the area include Anchors Aweigh at Ocean View Hotel, the Gros Morne Mountain hiking trail, kayaking on Bonne Bay, Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse, and the Bonne Bay Marine Station, and the annual Trails Tales Tunes festival.
South
The southern communities of Trout River, Woody Point, and Glenburnie-Birchy Head-Shoal Brook, accessible via Route 431, offer year-round adventures. Highlights include the Tablelands and Parks Canada Discovery Centre, the Writers at Woody Point Festival and Woody Point Heritage Theatre, the Green Gardens Hiking Trail, Trout River Pond & Trail, the Passing the Time in Trout River music event, and the Woody Point Lighthouse.
Seasons of Travel
The question isn’t whether or not you should visit Gros Morne – it’s when. The park shines in every season, from summer to winter, fall to spring. While it’s a hiker’s paradise, there’s plenty to do beyond the trails, no matter when you go.
Summer
Summer brings Gros Morne’s landscapes and culture to life. Cruise through ancient fjords, walk across 500 million years of exposed geology, visit coastal villages, or hike the Tablelands. Guided activities, like interpretive walks and boat tours, offer even more ways to explore.
Fall
In the fall, Gros Morne is peaceful and yours to explore. Hike the granite fjords, wander the rust-coloured Tablelands, and enjoy seasonal events like the Fall Festival in Cow Head or the Sonic Harvest Sessions in Woody Point – all at your own pace.
Winter
Winter transforms the park into a snowy playground. Enjoy snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, or backcountry adventures. Cozy accommodations, Parks Canada camping, and the nearby Marble Mountain ski hill add to the options for winter fun.
Spring
Spring brings longer days, melting snow, and bursts of green and orange across the Tablelands. Take part in Trails, Tales, and Tunes in Norris Point, spot minke whales in Bonne Bay, or use Gros Morne as a stop on a northern iceberg viewing adventure.