Exploring the Natural Wonders of Gros Morne National Park

A Day of Coastal Wonders

Today was a day filled with invigorating hikes, maritime history, and charming coastal views. Gros Morne continues to surprise and delight us with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It’s moments like these that remind me why Klaus and I cherish our travel adventures, especially when they combine our love for nature and sustainable living.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at our cozy cabin. Fuelled up, we set off to explore the Eastern Point Trail near Trout River. The drive itself was a treat, with the rugged coastline unfolding before us. As we neared the trailhead, the anticipation of the hike ahead filled us with excitement. I made a mental note to buy a portable phone charger in the next town, as mine was still empty from yesterday. You'd think I'd have learned my lesson by now, but travel mishaps are just part of the adventure, aren't they?

The Eastern Point Trail proved to be a delightful experience. Though it’s not prominently featured on the park map, it’s a hidden gem that offers stunning views without being overly strenuous. The trail began with a climb up a long set of steps, which definitely got our hearts pumping. As we ascended, we passed a pasture with a small flock of sheep grazing peacefully. They seemed quite accustomed to hikers, barely glancing up as we snapped a few photos. Apparently, there used to be a rock formation known as the 'Old Man' watching over the trail. According to locals, there was also a 'Old Woman' rock, but it collapsed a while ago. Now, the Old Man stands solo, keeping watch over the coastal path. Klaus chuckled at this little bit of local lore, always appreciating these unique stories that add character to a place.

Discover the breathtaking Eastern Point Trail in Newfoundland and Labrador, a hiking paradise with stunning views and rich natural beauty in Gros Morne National Park.

Reaching the plateau, we were rewarded with panoramic vistas of Trout River and the coastline. The views were simply breathtaking. The trail meandered along the craggy shoreline, offering several viewpoints to soak in the scenery. Despite some wet patches through the woods, boardwalks made the boggy areas manageable. I couldn’t help but think of my daughter, Olivia, and how much she would have loved this hike. She has always had a passion for nature and photography, just like her mother.

We took our time, stopping frequently to admire the dramatic cliffs and coastal meadows. The crisp air and the sound of the waves crashing against the rocks created a sense of tranquility. It was easy to see why this trail is often described as a 'Mini Green Gardens'. The diverse landscapes packed into a relatively short hike made it incredibly rewarding. By the time we completed the loop, we felt invigorated and deeply connected to the natural beauty of Gros Morne.

Nature's beauty is a gift that we must cherish and protect, for it enriches our lives in ways that words cannot express.

Next on our itinerary was the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse. After a short drive from Trout River, we arrived at this iconic landmark, perched on a rocky outcrop along the west coast of Newfoundland. The lighthouse, with its striking white structure, has been guiding fishermen and sailing vessels into Bonne Bay since the late 19th century.

Explore a historic lighthouse in Gros Morne National Park with stunning coastal views, hiking trails, and a glimpse into Newfoundland's maritime past.

As we approached the lighthouse, the wind picked up, carrying with it the salty scent of the sea. The sky was a canvas of grey and blue, creating a dramatic backdrop for the historic site. We learned that the lighthouse was constructed in 1897, with the shaft cast by the Victoria Iron Works of St. John's and the lantern by Chance Brothers of Birmingham, England. It’s fascinating to think about the craftsmanship and engineering that went into building this sturdy beacon over a century ago.

We explored the lightkeeper's dwelling, now a park interpretive exhibit showcasing the connection of local communities to the sea. Inside, historical photos and artifacts told the stories of the lightkeepers and their families who lived and worked here. It was a glimpse into a bygone era, where dedication and resilience were essential to maintaining the light that ensured safe passage for mariners. The exhibit highlighted the challenges and triumphs of life in this remote outpost, from battling fierce storms to raising families in isolation.

After immersing ourselves in the history of the lighthouse, we wandered along the coastal trails that wind through the tuckamore forests. These stunted, wind-swept trees create a unique and enchanting landscape. The trails offered stunning views of the coastline, and we even spotted a few whales breaching in the distance. Lobster Cove Head is indeed one of the best places in Gros Morne to spot these magnificent creatures.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, we found a cozy spot to watch the sunset. Lobster Cove Head is renowned for its brilliant sunsets, and tonight was no exception. The sky exploded with vibrant colors, painting the lighthouse and the surrounding landscape in hues of orange, pink, and gold. It was a magical moment, one that we will cherish forever. I managed to capture a few photos, hoping to preserve the beauty of this unforgettable scene.

With the sun now set, our thoughts turned to dinner. We drove to Rocky Harbour, a charming harborfront town, and decided to try The Cat Stop, a waterfront pub. The pub is part of the BonTours family and is known for its stunning views of Bonne Bay and the Tablelands. Unfortunately, it's only open until the end of September. Neddies Harbour Inn was also closed for the season. So we ended up at Buoy & Arrow Restaurant and Suites.

Discover Buoy & Arrow Restaurant and Suites: A delightful fusion of local cuisine and cozy accommodations in beautiful Rocky Harbour.

We chose Buoy & Arrow for dinner and it was a delightful experience. The restaurant had a cozy atmosphere, and we were promptly seated by a friendly staff member. Klaus and I both chose seafood dishes, wanting to savor the local flavors. My pan-seared cod was cooked to perfection, flaky and moist, while Klaus thoroughly enjoyed his lobster bisque. We ended our meal with a shared slice of partridgeberry pie, a Newfoundland specialty. I must remember to try making this myself when we get back home to Heidelberg. Perhaps I can even find some lingonberries at the local farmers' market to give it an authentic touch.

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll through Rocky Harbour. The town was quiet, with the gentle sound of lapping waves providing a soothing soundtrack. We passed by several craft shops, their windows displaying an array of handmade treasures. Although it was late, I made a mental note to visit Valley Crafts in Deer Lake sometime during our trip. I’m always on the lookout for unique pieces to add to my collection, especially those that reflect the local culture and artistry.

Explore local craftsmanship at Valley Crafts, a hidden gem in Deer Lake, Newfoundland offering unique handmade treasures and artisan products.

As we walked back to our car, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the experiences of the day. Gros Morne National Park has a way of captivating the soul, with its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. It’s a place where you can truly connect with nature and appreciate the simple things in life.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Rocky Harbour Cove and the Captain James Cook National Historic Site. I'm particularly excited about the latter, as it offers a glimpse into the early European exploration of this region. We might try Oceans Room Restaurant for dinner, or perhaps Fisherman's Landing.

Back at our cabin, I sit by the window, listening to the wind rustling through the trees. Klaus is already asleep, snoring softly. I take a moment to reflect on our day, feeling grateful for the opportunity to explore this beautiful corner of the world. As I prepare to drift off to sleep, I can't help but smile, knowing that tomorrow will bring new adventures and discoveries.

Goodnight from Gros Morne!