Plan Your Trip
Getting Here
By Air
Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF), located just 45 minutes from Gros Morne National Park, is the closest airport to the park. St. John’s International Airport (YYT), on the east coast of the island of Newfoundland, offers daily flights into the province with convenient connections to Deer Lake.
Major Carriers Flying to Deer Lake:
Air Canada: Daily service from Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax.
PAL Airlines: Regular regional flights throughout Atlantic Canada.
By Sea
Marine Atlantic operates a daily ferry service between Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, with routes connecting North Sydney (NS) to Port aux Basques (NL), a four-hour drive from Gros Morne National Park. Seasonal service is also available to Argentia (NL). Both routes accommodate walk-on passengers, vehicles, and travel trailers. Reservations are recommended.
Access to and from Labrador is available via the ferry between St. Barbe (NL) and Blanc-Sablon (QC).
Where to Stay
Across the seven communities of Gros Morne National Park, you’ll find a mix of cozy, convenient, and scenic places to rest for the night. From charming B&Bs and cottages to modern hotels to rustic RV parks and campsites, there’s something to suit every style of traveller.
Whether you choose one community as your base or travel from south to north, plan to spend at least four days to truly experience all the sights and sounds.
Getting Around
Gros Morne National Park stretches across seven communities in its southern, central, and northern regions – about a two-hour drive from end to end. Each area has its own character, history, and attractions, and exploring them all is part of the adventure.
Getting around is easy, with options that include rental cars, taxis, bus services, water shuttles, and even cycling (electric bikes welcome).
Car Rentals
Bus & Taxi Services
Multiple bus and taxi services operate in and around Gros Morne, connecting the park and surrounding communities to Deer Lake Airport.
- Gros Morne Transportation & Tours – Airport transfers and local travel (Woody Point, 709-458-7296)
- Pittman’s Taxi – Affordable rides between Deer Lake and Gros Morne (Rocky Harbour, 709-458-2486)
- Ride in Style – Luxury transportation from Deer Lake and within the park
- Martin’s Transportation – Local transfers (Woody Point, 709-453-2207)
- Star Taxi – Airport and park transfers (Deer Lake, 709-634-4343)
- Shears Bus Service – Charter bus rentals for groups
- DRL Bus travels across the island with a stop in Deer Lake, but not directly into Gros
Water Transport
There are several companies, like Bon Tours, which provide travel between the town of Norris Point and the south side of the park in the town of Woody Point.
Travel Itineraries
Whether you’re visiting the park for a couple of days or a full week, we have suggested itineraries to help you make the most of your time in Gros Morne. From quick highlights to in-depth explorations, there’s a plan for every kind of explorer.
Planning & Safety
Changeable weather is part of the personality of Gros Morne National Park, perched on the edge of the North Atlantic. Being prepared is key to having a safe and enjoyable time on the trails. Here are some tips to help you plan your next adventure.
Know the Trails Before You Go
Parks Canada is your go-to resource for hiking in Gros Morne. Trails are rated by difficulty, so you can pick one that matches your ability and timeframe:
- Easy: Flat to gently rolling, 0–100 m elevation gain.
- Moderate: Gently rolling with short steep sections, 100–500 m elevation gain.
- Difficult: Rolling with many long, steep sections, 500+ m elevation gain.
Check trail conditions before you leave – Parks Canada updates reports regularly. If you need guidance, local tour companies are happy to lead hikes.
For hikers tackling the Long Range Traverse, check out this Parks Canada video for a preview.
General Tips
- Park passes are required on all trails.
- Check the weather and dress in layers.
- Wear sturdy hiking footwear and consider hiking poles on steep or rugged terrain.
- Bring water, food, extra clothing, a headlamp, medications, and spare prescription eyewear.
- Share your trip plan with someone, including your route and expected return time.
- Cell coverage is limited in much of the park.
What to Pack for a Day Hike
- Daypack
- Rain jacket and pants
- Wool or fleece sweater
- 2L water bottle
- Lunch and snacks
- Sunhat, sunglasses, sunblock
- Lightweight hat and gloves (cooler weather)
What to Pack for a Multi-Day Hike
- Backpack and Shelter
- Large backpack
- Dry sacks for clothes
- Sleeping bag in dry sack (rated to 0°C / 32°F)
- Insulated sleeping pad
- Lightweight waterproof tent
- Clothing
- Sturdy hiking boots and gaiters
- Quick-dry shirts, t-shirts, and pants
- Rain gear (jacket and pants)
- Wool or fleece sweaters
- Sun hat, insulated hat, and gloves
- Socks (synthetic or wool)
- Personal Care
- Packable towel, minimal toiletries
- Sunglasses, sunblock, lip balm
- Insect repellent and bug protection
- Medications and a first aid kit
- Food and Water
- Water bottle or bladder
- Water filter / treatment
- Lightweight stove and fuel
- Energy-rich, easy-to-cook food
- Minimal utensils