A Solo Adventure in Gros Morne National Park

A Day of Discovery in Gros Morne

Today was a day of contrasts, from the heights of the Lookout Hills to the coastal wonders of The Arches. Gros Morne continues to surprise me with its diverse landscapes and hidden gems. It's days like these that remind me why I set out on this solo adventure in the first place – to connect with nature and discover the unexpected beauty that lies just around the corner.


Discover breathtaking views and diverse wildlife along the scenic Lookout Hills Trail in Gros Morne National Park, a must-visit for nature lovers.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Earle's Restaurant in Rocky Harbour. I opted for the savory oatmeal, a Newfoundland specialty, which fueled me up perfectly for the morning's hike. It's always a pleasure to start the day with a taste of local cuisine. The friendly service at Earle's made the experience even more enjoyable.


Discover Earle's Restaurant in Rocky Harbour: A family-friendly dining spot serving delicious local cuisine with warm Newfoundland hospitality.

After breakfast, I headed towards the Lookout Hills Trail, eager to experience the panoramic vistas I had read so much about. The trailhead is conveniently located at the Discovery Centre parking lot in Woody Point. The climb was definitely a challenge, with a steep elevation gain. But the steady ascent through the forest was beautiful, and the anticipation of the view kept me going.

Emerging from the trees onto the highland plateau was like stepping into another world. The platform atop Partridgeberry Hill offered spectacular views of Bonne Bay, Gros Morne Mountain, the Tablelands, and, of course, the Lookout Hills themselves. I spent a good hour simply soaking in the scenery, taking photos, and enjoying the crisp autumn air. The fall foliage added a touch of magic to the landscape, with vibrant colors painting the hillsides.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

The Lookout Hills Trail is a 5-km return loop. The combination of forest and highland terrain makes it a truly memorable hike. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Gros Morne. Just be prepared for a bit of a workout!.

For lunch, I stopped at Java Jack's Restaurant & Gallery in Rocky Harbour. This charming yellow house is known for its cozy atmosphere, local art, and delicious food. I had their seafood chowder, which was packed with chunky pieces of fish and seafood. It was the perfect way to warm up after the hike. Java Jack's also has a lovely organic garden, which supplies fresh greens and veggies for their dishes.


Experience exceptional dining at Java Jack's Restaurant & Gallery in Rocky Harbour - where culinary delights meet local artistry.

In the afternoon, I drove north to The Arches Provincial Park. This park is named for its unique rock formation, featuring three natural arches carved by thousands of years of wave erosion. The park is located a short drive north of Gros Morne National Park, making it an easy day trip.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of The Arches Provincial Park in Newfoundland and Labrador, where stunning landscapes and unique geological features await.

The Arches Provincial Park opened to the public in 1972. A short path leads from the parking area to the beach, where the massive rock formation steals the show. Walking on the rocks near the arches can be challenging, so caution is advised. But it's worth it to explore the arches from different angles, including underneath and on top.

Originally, there were four arches, but one collapsed due to erosion. The remaining three are a testament to the power of nature. The arches are made of Ordovician-aged dolomitic conglomerate. They provide a stunning backdrop for photos, especially at sunset.

Before heading back, I stopped by Valley Crafts, hoping to find a unique souvenir. While Valley Crafts is located in Deer Lake, I was hoping to find a similar shop closer to Gros Morne. I ended up finding a small craft shop in Rocky Harbour. I picked up a hand-knitted scarf made by a local artisan. It's a perfect reminder of my time in Newfoundland.


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

For dinner, I had a reservation at the Gros Morne Inn. The restaurant, Taste, focuses on sustainably sourced, locally grown food. I had the slow roasted lamb, which was cooked to perfection. The Gros Morne Inn is also committed to sustainability, working towards net zero emissions and offering sustainably rated seafood.


Discover Gros Morne Inn: Your serene retreat near breathtaking landscapes and adventures in Gros Morne National Park.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with gratitude for the opportunity to explore this incredible park. Tomorrow, I plan to visit Steady Brook Falls and hike the James Cook Heritage Trail. I'm also hoping to stop by Rudy's Gas Bar and Pub for a taste of local nightlife. I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings!

This solo trip to Gros Morne has been an incredible experience so far. It's allowed me to connect with nature on a deeper level, challenge myself physically, and discover the unique culture of Newfoundland. I'm already looking forward to planning my next adventure!