Exploring the Natural Wonders of Gros Morne National Park

A Fond Farewell

As our journey through Gros Morne National Park draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences we've had. Today was a day of serene goodbyes, filled with geological wonders and tranquil natural beauty. It's hard to believe our two weeks here are over; it feels like we've only just scratched the surface of what this magnificent park has to offer.

Our final day began with a hearty breakfast at our cozy cabin. I savored the last of the local jams we’d picked up at a market a few days prior, spreading it generously on a slice of Klaus’s freshly baked bread. With our backpacks prepped and a sense of bittersweet anticipation, we set out to explore our first destination of the day: Green Point Geological Site.

The drive to Green Point was, as always, breathtaking. The rugged coastline, even under the grey December sky, held a stark beauty that’s hard to put into words. As we arrived, the wind was whipping off the Atlantic, carrying with it the salty scent of the sea. Bundled in our warmest layers, Klaus and I ventured out to explore the geological marvels that awaited us.

Green Point Geological Site is truly a place where you can walk through time. The seaside cliffs, with their layered rocks, tell a story that spans almost 500 million years. It's humbling to stand there, knowing that these rocks formed at the bottom of an ancient ocean. As we strolled along the shoreline, the layers of shale and limestone felt like pages of a history book, each one whispering tales of a world long gone.

I was particularly fascinated by the knowledge that geologists discovered fossils here that define the boundary between the Cambrian and Ordovician periods. To think that this very spot is a world geological benchmark is simply incredible. Klaus, with his architect's eye, was captivated by the way the layers had been pushed and contorted over millennia, creating a stunning visual display. We spent a good hour just wandering, examining the rocks, and imagining the forces that shaped them.

The earth has music for those who listen.

After our geological exploration, we hopped back in the car and made our way to Sir Richard Squires Memorial Provincial Park. Known locally as Big Falls Park, it's located a bit inland, about 36 kilometers northeast of Deer Lake. The drive itself was lovely, taking us through more of Newfoundland’s beautiful countryside.

As we arrived at Sir Richard Squires Memorial Park, the atmosphere shifted from the rugged coastal drama of Green Point to a serene, forested calm. The park is situated on the Humber River, and the main attraction is, without a doubt, Big Falls. Though I knew that salmon usually migrate into Newfoundland rivers from May to September, I was still hopeful to see some. Unfortunately, it was not the right season.

We took a leisurely walk along one of the short trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking the falls. The sound of the cascading water was incredibly soothing, and the crisp, clean air filled our lungs. Even though the vibrant fall colors were long gone, the park still held a quiet beauty, with its mix of evergreen and broad-leaved trees.

I thought about the history of the park, named in honor of Sir Richard Squires, a former Prime Minister of Newfoundland. Established in 1954, it was the first provincial park in Newfoundland, a testament to the province’s commitment to preserving its natural beauty.

While at Sir Richard Squires Memorial Provincial Park, we explored the day-use facilities, and I was impressed by how well-maintained everything was. Although it was too chilly to consider camping, I could see why this park is a popular spot in the warmer months, with its 157 campsites and overflow area. I took some pictures of the falls, trying to capture the essence of the place, but as always, the photos just couldn't do it justice.

For lunch, we decided to try The Old Store Cafe in Norris Point. I had heard wonderful things about their pea soup, which one reviewer described as being “as thick as fog”. Of course, I had to try it, and it did not disappoint. Klaus opted for a panini, which he said was equally delicious. The cafe itself had a fresh, quirky feel, with local art adorning the walls. It was the perfect spot to warm up and reflect on our morning adventures.

After lunch, we briefly stopped by Whale Tale Treasures, a shop I had spotted earlier in the week. I was hoping to find a small, locally made souvenir to take back to Olivia. I ended up choosing a beautiful hand-painted ornament depicting a Newfoundland scene. It felt like the perfect memento of our trip.

For our final dinner in Gros Morne, we decided to treat ourselves to a meal at Seaside Restaurant in Trout River. I had read so much about their fresh seafood and stunning ocean views, and I wanted to experience it for myself. We arrived just as the sun was beginning to set, and the view from our table was indeed spectacular. The Gulf of St. Lawrence stretched out before us, and the sky was ablaze with color.

I ordered the pan-fried cod, while Klaus chose the lobster. Both dishes were incredibly fresh and flavorful, a true taste of Newfoundland. The service was warm and welcoming, and we felt right at home. As we savored our meal, we reminisced about our favorite moments from the past two weeks: hiking the Tablelands, cruising Western Brook Pond, and exploring the charming coastal towns.

As we finished our meal, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible journey. Gros Morne National Park had exceeded all of my expectations. It’s a place of immense natural beauty, geological wonder, and rich cultural heritage. I’m so glad that Klaus and I were able to experience it together.

Tomorrow, we’ll be heading back to St. John’s for our flight back to Frankfurt. While I’m looking forward to seeing Olivia and settling back into our cozy Heidelberg home, a part of me will always remain in Gros Morne. This park has a way of capturing your heart, and I know we’ll be back someday to explore more of its hidden treasures. Until then, I’ll cherish the memories and the lessons I’ve learned from this extraordinary place.

As I sit here now, writing this final blog post from our cabin, I can hear the wind howling outside. It feels like Gros Morne is whispering a final farewell. And to that, I can only say: thank you. Thank you for the beauty, the adventure, and the unforgettable memories. Auf wiedersehen, Gros Morne. Until we meet again.

Perhaps, on our next visit, we'll explore more culinary experiences. I've heard great things about The Black Spruce Restaurant at Neddies Harbour Inn, and it's on my list for our next adventure here.

It's time to pack our bags and prepare for the journey home. But the spirit of Gros Morne will travel with us, inspiring us to seek out new adventures and appreciate the beauty of the natural world, wherever we may be.