Exploring the Natural Wonders of Gros Morne National Park

A Symphony of Scenery and Seafood

Today was a day of contrasting landscapes and delightful tastes here in Gros Morne National Park. From the unique geological formations of the Green Gardens Trail to the serene waters of Western Brook Pond, and the cozy restaurants in between, it was an experience that truly captured the essence of this remarkable place. I felt a deep connection to the land and its people, a feeling I always cherish when traveling.

Our day began with an early start, fueled by the excitement of exploring the famed Green Gardens Trail. The trailhead was easy to find, about 13 kilometers from Woody Point. The drive itself was scenic, winding through the park's rugged terrain. The weather was crisp, a typical late November day, but the skies were clear, promising good visibility. I made a mental note that I really must remember to buy a portable phone charger, as mine is still sitting on the kitchen counter back in Heidelberg. I swear, I am usually so organised!

The Green Gardens Trail is known for its diverse landscapes, and it certainly lived up to its reputation. The trail starts atop the Tablelands, with its barren, serpentine barrens. It felt like walking on another planet. The rusty orange rocks stretched out before us, a stark contrast to the blue sky above. Klaus, ever the geologist at heart, was in his element, pointing out the unique mineral compositions and explaining how this area was once part of the Earth's mantle. It's moments like these that remind me how much I appreciate having him as my travel companion. He sees the world through a different lens, adding depth and understanding to our adventures.

As we continued, the trail began to descend, leading us into a boreal forest. The change was dramatic – suddenly, we were surrounded by lush greenery, the scent of pine filling the air. The trail wound its way down, with some fairly steep sections, so I was glad I had my hiking boots. It would be easy to twist an ankle otherwise. The forest opened up to reveal the coastline, a stunning vista of sea stacks, coves, and beaches. The volcanic rock formations were incredible, sculpted by centuries of wind and waves.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that require a bit of effort, a willingness to step outside your comfort zone and embrace the unexpected.

We spent a good couple of hours exploring the coastline, clambering over rocks, and taking in the panoramic views. The sea was a deep blue, crashing against the shore with a rhythmic roar. I could see why this place is called the Green Gardens – the cliff-top meadows were lush and green, even in late November. I imagined how vibrant they must be in the summer months. Apparently, sheep still graze in the area, a throwback to when residents of Trout River used the area as summer range for their livestock. We didn't see any sheep today, though.


Explore the stunning Green Gardens Trail in Gros Morne National Park, where breathtaking coastal views and rich biodiversity await every adventurer.

After our hike, we drove towards Western Brook Pond, eager for our boat tour. We had booked in advance, as recommended, and I was glad we did. Apparently, the boat tours only run until mid-October, so we were very fortunate to be able to do this. To get to the boat, there was a 3-kilometer walk from the parking lot. The path was mostly flat and easy, but it did take about 45 minutes. Luckily, for those with mobility issues, there is a golf cart shuttle.

As we approached the pond, the scenery was breathtaking. Western Brook Pond is a freshwater fjord, carved by glaciers. The cliffs rise dramatically from the water, some reaching over 700 meters high. The boat tour lasted about two hours, and it was worth every penny. The guide provided live interpretation, pointing out geological formations and sharing stories about the area. Waterfalls cascaded down the cliffs, some disappearing into mist before reaching the pond. It was a truly awe-inspiring sight.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Western Brook Pond, a glacial wonderland in Newfoundland and Labrador offering stunning views and outdoor adventures.

The boat itself was comfortable, with canopied decks and on-board washrooms. I was particularly impressed by the cleanliness of the water. It's incredibly pure, thanks to the remote location and protected environment. Klaus and I sat on the deck, wrapped in our warm jackets, marveling at the scenery. It's hard to believe that this place was shaped by glaciers billions of years ago. It felt like we were transported back in time.

After our boat tour, we were both feeling quite peckish. We decided to head to Rocky Harbour for dinner, a charming town known for its seafood restaurants. We had a few options in mind, but ultimately decided on Fisherman's Landing Restaurant. It was recommended to us for its traditional Newfoundland meals and cozy atmosphere.

The restaurant was indeed warm and inviting. The staff were friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. We sat by the window, overlooking the harbor. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the water. I ordered the fish and chips, a classic Newfoundland dish. The cod was fresh and flaky, with a crispy batter. Klaus opted for the seafood platter, a generous assortment of lobster, shrimp, scallops, and mussels. We both agreed that the seafood was incredibly fresh and flavorful.


Experience the taste of fresh seafood at Fisherman's Landing Restaurant in Rocky Harbour – where every dish celebrates Newfoundland's rich maritime heritage.

As we savored our meal, we chatted about our day's adventures. We reminisced about the Green Gardens Trail, the stunning views from Western Brook Pond, and the friendly people we had met along the way. It's these shared experiences that make our travels so special. I am so grateful that Klaus shares my love for nature and sustainable living. It makes these adventures even more meaningful.

After dinner, we decided to explore Rocky Harbour a bit more. We strolled along Main Street, browsing the local shops. I was tempted to buy a souvenir, but I resisted. I already have so many trinkets cluttering my shelves back home. Instead, we decided to treat ourselves to a nightcap at a local pub. We headed to the Anchor Pub, known for its lively atmosphere and local beers.

The pub was buzzing with activity. Locals and tourists mingled, sharing stories and laughter. A local band was playing traditional Newfoundland music, filling the air with cheerful melodies. I ordered a local beer from Western Newfoundland Brewing Co., while Klaus opted for a glass of wine. We sat at the bar, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying the music. It was the perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover Anchor Pub in Rocky Harbour - where delicious local flavors meet breathtaking coastal views in Morne National Park.


Discover the essence of Newfoundland craft beer at the Western Newfoundland Brewing Co. in Rocky Harbour, where community and flavor meet.

Western Newfoundland Brewing Co. seems to be quite the local gem. It is a nanobrewery in Pasadena, NL. They have a few interesting beers, including the Beer Lake NL Honey Pilsner. I made a mental note to visit the brewery if we have time during our trip.

As we walked back to our accommodation, I reflected on the day. We experienced the contrasting landscapes of the Green Gardens Trail, the serene beauty of Western Brook Pond, and the warm hospitality of the locals. It was a day that truly captured the essence of Gros Morne National Park. Tomorrow, we plan to hike the Gros Morne Mountain Hiking Trail and visit Broom Point. I am particularly excited about the hike, as it promises stunning views of the park. I am a little nervous about the climb, though. I have heard it is quite challenging.

Before drifting off to sleep, I thought about how fortunate I am to be able to experience these incredible places. Travel is not just about seeing new things; it's about connecting with different cultures, learning about the world, and creating lasting memories. And, of course, sharing those experiences with all of you. Good nacht from Newfoundland!