Categories > Guides and Tips

gros-morne-national-park-guide-banner

Wander Gros Morne National Park Like a Local 

Clever Canadian Written By: February 2025

National parks in Canada are truly something you have to witness for yourself. As someone who’s been to numerous ones, I can say Gros Morne National Park is seriously special. 

With its dramatic cliffs, quiet fjords, and rolling green hills, it’s the kind of place that instantly makes you want to get out and explore. You also have many activity options like hiking, kayaking, or just soaking up the scenery—which is always a plus! 

What makes Gros Morne even better is how it feels like a mix of adventure and calm. You’ll find trails that push your limits and peaceful spots where you can just sit back and take it all in. 

So, let’s get right into it then! 

Where is Gros Morne National Park? 

gros-morne-national-park-map
Image Source: Google Maps

Gros Morne National Park is on the west coast of Newfoundland, Canada. It’s about a 30-minute drive from Deer Lake Airport and roughly four hours by car from the ferry terminal at Port aux Basques.

How to get to Gros Morne National Park 

By Car: Driving is probably your best bet if you want flexibility. Once you arrive in Newfoundland, it’s about a 4-hour drive from Port aux Basques to Gros Morne along the Trans-Canada Highway (Route 1) and Route 430. 

By Ferry: If you’re coming from Nova Scotia, taking the Marine Atlantic ferry from North Sydney to Port aux Basques is a great option. 

The crossing takes around 6 hours, and you’ll want to book your spot early during peak seasons. After the ferry ride, you can hit the road and drive straight to the park.

By Bus and Shuttle: If you’re not up for driving, DRL-LR Bus Service runs across Newfoundland with a stop in Deer Lake. From there, you can grab a local shuttle, like Gros Morne Transportation & Tours, to get you to the park. 

By Bicycle: You can cycle your way to Gros Morne! Just know that it’s a challenging ride with lots of hills and ever-changing weather, but if you’re up for it, the views will definitely make it worth the effort.

What to Do and See in Gros Morne National Park

Pay a visit to the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse

Media from newfoundlandlabrador

We don’t know about you, but lighthouses are always a highlight in any beach fronts and national parks because of their mysterious nature—and most people would agree. 

At Gros Morne National Park, the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse stands as a must-see landmark. Perched on a rugged coastline, this historic lighthouse not only offers incredible ocean views but also gives you a glimpse into the region’s maritime past.

Inside, you’ll find interpretive exhibits that dive into local history, shipwreck stories, and traditional life in Newfoundland. 

Plus, if you’re lucky, you might catch one of the guided tours or storytelling sessions that bring the place to life. 

Conquer Gros Morne Mountain Peak 

Media from seamusoregan

While summiting Everest might be a far-off dream, Canadians have Gros Morne Mountain—a peak that’s challenging enough to earn you bragging rights. 

At 806 meters, it’s the second-highest point in Newfoundland, and let’s be real, the views from the top are reason enough to tackle this trail.

The Gros Morne Mountain Trail is a 17-kilometer loop, and while the first few kilometers are a calm walk through dense forest, things quickly shift once you hit the mountain base. From there, it’s a tough climb up steep, rocky terrain. 

But once you’re up top, you’re rewarded with sweeping views of the Long Range Mountains and the deep blue Ten Mile Pond below. 

Go hiking in a few of its great trails 

Gros Morne National Park is home to some of eastern Canada’s most stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. You’ll find everything from quick, easy walks to challenging full-day treks.

Here are the following trails we personally recommend: 

Steve’s Trail

If you’re new to hiking and looking for something manageable, the trail to the mouth of Western Brook is a great choice. 

It leads you across a peaceful meadow with sweeping views of the northern coastline, Western Brook Gorge, and the Long Range Mountains. Locals sometimes call it “Steve’s Trail,” in memory of a fisherman who once used this route for work.

You’ll find the trailhead about 34 km north of Rocky Harbour along Route 430. It starts beside the washroom facilities at Broom Point’s parking lot and winds through a tuckamore forest—a dense coastal thicket. 

Following the gravel road, you’ll eventually reach Broom Point’s restored fishing site and a small cove, where an old cemetery from the 1800s quietly rests by the shore.

Coastal Trail

Media from kkwleung

Another amazing trail is the route between Bakers Brook and Green Point, which is both a great spot for seasoned and novice hikers who love coastal scenery and a bit of history. 

This path once connected two small fishing communities and took you along cobble beaches and through coastal forests known as “tuckamore”—stunted trees shaped by relentless wind and frost.

Starting at the Bakers Brook parking lot, about 10 km north of Rocky Harbour on Route 430, the trail follows an old winter mail road that hugs the coastline. 

With a mix of habitats like ponds, beaches, and those distinctive tuckamore forests, it’s perfect for soaking in ocean breezes and catching a stunning sunset over the water.

Western Brook Pond

Media from yarrumd180

Western Brook Pond has long been one of Gros Morne’s iconic sights, and the trail leading to it is well worth your time. 

This 6 km out-and-back route, with an optional 1.8 km scenic loop, takes you through bogs and forested ridges before opening up to stunning views of the pond’s towering cliffs and the Long Range Mountains. 

Keep an eye out for interpretive signs along the way—they offer cool insights into the area’s unique landscape.

Also, the trailhead is 27 km north of Rocky Harbour on Route 430, starting with a 2.7 km gravel path that leads to the Western Brook Pond boat tour launch. 

Old Mail Road

Media from gunhild_hexamer_autorin

With a fancy old-school name (no pun intended), the Old Mail Road trail is a short but memorable 2 km round trip that takes you through forests and sand dunes. 

It’s an easy, peaceful walk with a hint of history, as this path once served as part of the only overland mail route on the Northern Peninsula. 

You’ll find the trailhead 3 km north of Cow Head at the Shallow Bay day-use area. The route runs alongside the campground and up to the Slants River, with options to cross the dunes via boardwalk and loop back along the beach. 

Since it’s shared with cyclists, just stay aware of your surroundings and enjoy the mix of forest paths, sandy dunes, and coastal vibes.

Baker’s Brook Falls

Media from marleybowen_

What better way to hike an amazing trail and spot a stunning waterfall creek right around the corner than by taking on the Baker’s Brook Falls trail? 

This 10 km out-and-back route leads you through balsam fir forests before rewarding you with the sight of cascading waterfalls tumbling over limestone ridges. 

The forest along the trail is in various stages of regrowth, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a moose—though heavy browsing by these guys has slowed down the vegetation recovery in some areas.

You’ll find the trailhead at Berry Hill campground, about 5 km north of Rocky Harbour along Route 430. Besides the waterfalls, the trail is known for its colorful display of wildflowers that bloom in spring and summer. 

Explore the Tablelands 

Media from bigfatrebound

If the Grand Canyon’s a thing, here in Canada, we have the Tablelands—a geological wonder that looks like it belongs on another planet. 

This unique landscape is made up of exposed mantle rock, giving it that striking, reddish-gold color. It’s not something you’ll find in many places on Earth, and walking through it feels like stepping into a prehistoric world.

The Tablelands also offer a range of hiking options, from easy strolls to guided tours that dive into the fascinating geology and rock formations—really similar to that of the Grand Canyon. 

And the trail itself is a 4 km round trip and takes about 1 to 2 hours, leading you through an open expanse with views of rugged ridges and valleys. And lastly, bring a sturdy pair of shoes and plenty of water—the terrain may look barren, but it can be tough on your feet.

Try camping!

Media from jennyhodder

Visiting national parks is nothing without camping on the side—you absolutely need to try camping here at Gros Morne National Park. With incredible scenery and well-equipped sites, it’s an experience you won’t forget. 

Berry Hill Campground is our personal favorite for its wooded sites and proximity to several hiking trails, including the popular Baker’s Brook Falls trail. 

It has all the essential amenities like flush toilets, hot showers, and kitchen shelters. You’ll also find playgrounds for kids and fire pits for those cozy campfire nights.

Invite everyone for nighttime stargazing 

Media from newfoundlandlabrador

We feel sad as the day ends when visiting Gros Morne, but what you didn’t know is that it’s just as fun (if not more so) during the night. 

Once the sun sets, Gros Morne’s skies transform into a stargazing paradise. Far from city lights, this national park offers one of the clearest views of the night sky in eastern Canada, making it perfect for spotting constellations, shooting stars, and even the Milky Way on clear nights.

Some of the best spots for a night under the stars include Shallow Bay Campground, Green Point, and Lobster Cove Head, where the combination of open horizons and minimal light pollution provides an ideal viewing experience. 

If you visit during late summer or early fall, you might even catch the northern lights dancing across the sky.

Where to Eat and Drink in Morne National Park 

Media from s.cheese.n

Address: 88 Main St N, Rocky Harbour
Contact Details: +17094582710
Opening Hours: Daily 8 AM-5 PM
Cost: $$
Website
Menu

Java Jack’s feels like one of those spots where you just want to sit back, enjoy good food, and soak in the artsy vibes. You’ve got everything from fresh lobster linguine to hearty rabbit pot pie—perfect after a day of hiking. 

Also, with all the local art displayed around the place, it feels more like dining in a cozy gallery than a restaurant. If you’re anything like me, you’ll love grabbing a coffee here and just chilling for a bit.

Treasure Box

Media from thetreasureboxcanada

Address: 72 Main St N, Rocky Harbour
Contact Details: +17094583007
Opening Hours: Daily 9 AM–7 PM
Cost: $$
Website
Menu

You’re about to dive into a treasure chest of flavors—literally! This place nails it with its moose burgers and homemade fish cakes, giving you a real taste of Newfoundland’s local cuisine. 

It’s got that casual, laid-back vibe, which makes it perfect for kicking back after exploring the park. Honestly, it’s one of those places where you feel at home the moment you walk in.

Earle’s Restaurant

Media from earlsrestaurant

Address: 111 Main St S, Rocky Harbour
Contact Details: +17094583100
Opening Hours: Daily 8 AM-5 PM 
Cost: $$
Website
Menu

If you’re craving some comfort food with a bit of variety, Earle’s has got your back. From crispy fried cod to juicy burgers, the menu has got something for everyone. 

The atmosphere is super relaxed, and it’s great whether you’re rolling in with the family or just grabbing a quiet meal after a long day of adventuring. Trust me, you’ll leave feeling full and happy.

The Black Spruce Restaurant

Media from neddies_harbour_inn

Address: 7 Beach Rd, Norris Point, NL A0K 3V0, Canada
Contact Details: +17094583405
Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 AM–5 PM
Cost: $$
Website
Menu

This place gives off serious fine dining vibes but without the fuss. You’ll get beautifully plated dishes like seared scallops and tender lamb, all made with local ingredients. 

And honestly, the view alone makes it worth visiting. Imagine ending your day with a glass of wine, great food, and panoramic views of Gros Morne—it’s kind of a dream come true.

Fisherman’s Landing Restaurant

Media from karliabaldosa

Address: Main St N, Rocky Harbour
Contact Details: +17094582060
Opening Hours: Daily 7 AM–10 PM
Cost: $$
Website
Menu

Seafood lovers, this one’s for you! Fisherman’s Landing is all about serving up the freshest lobster rolls and cod dishes. 

It’s simple, unpretentious, and exactly what you want when you’re craving something hearty after a day out. 

Related topics