Gros Morne National Park, Canada Travel Guide
Explore the awe-inspiring landscapes and rich biodiversity of Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on Newfoundland's west coast.
Gros Morne National Park, located on the west coast of Newfoundland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning natural beauty. The park covers 1,805 square kilometers and offers a diverse range of landscapes, including towering cliffs, fjords, and pristine freshwater lakes. Visitors can explore the ancient Long Range Mountains, which are part of the Appalachian chain and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking trails catering to all skill levels. One of the most popular hikes is the Gros Morne Mountain Trail, which takes you to the summit of the park's highest peak. For a more leisurely experience, the Western Brook Pond boat tour provides an unforgettable journey through a landlocked fjord, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. Wildlife is abundant in Gros Morne National Park, with opportunities to see moose, caribou, and a variety of bird species. The park's unique geology and rich biodiversity make it a fascinating destination for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the chance to visit the Discovery Centre, where you can learn more about the park's natural and cultural history.
Know before you go
Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Gros Morne National Park.
- Visit in the summer or early fall for the best weather and hiking conditions.
- Bring insect repellent, especially in June and July when mosquitoes and blackflies are most active.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots for the Gros Morne Mountain Trail and other rugged hikes.
- Book the Western Brook Pond boat tour in advance, as it is very popular.
- Stop by the Discovery Centre for maps, information, and exhibits on the park's geology and wildlife.
Explore Gros Morne National Park: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More
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Green Gardens Trail
Hike through diverse landscapes, from barren Tablelands to lush coastal meadows, on this scenic trail in Gros Morne National Park.
Gros Morne
Explore fjords, mountains, and unique geology in this UNESCO World Heritage Site on Newfoundland's west coast. Adventure and tranquility await!
Gros Morne Mountain Hiking Trail
Hike to the top of Gros Morne Mountain for panoramic views of Newfoundland's stunning glacial landscape and unique arctic-alpine environment.
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Fisherman's Landing Restaurant
Experience the taste of fresh seafood at Fisherman's Landing Restaurant in Rocky Harbour – where every dish celebrates Newfoundland's rich maritime heritage.
Seaside Restaurant
Experience fresh seafood delights at Seaside Restaurant in Trout River - where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
Merchant Warehouse Retro Cafe & Wine Bar
Discover delicious fish and chips at Merchant Warehouse Retro Cafe & Wine Bar in Bonne Bay—where great food meets stunning coastal views.
Treasure Box
Experience the best of Newfoundland at Treasure Box: delicious food, local crafts, and a warm atmosphere await you.
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Parc national de la Pointe-Taillon
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Christian's Pub
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Christian's Pub in St. John's, where local flavors meet lively ambiance and unforgettable memories.
Fisherman's Landing Restaurant
Discover the flavorful seafood cuisine at Fisherman's Landing Restaurant, where local ingredients meet breathtaking views in Rocky Harbour.
Merchant Warehouse Retro Cafe & Wine Bar
Discover the Merchant Warehouse Retro Cafe & Wine Bar in Bonne Bay for a delightful blend of fresh fish & chips and a vibrant wine selection.
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Merchant Warehouse Retro Cafe & Wine Bar
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Gros Morne Mountain Hiking Trail
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Treasure Box
Discover the flavors and crafts of Newfoundland at Treasure Box, Rocky Harbour's charming restaurant and unique craft store.
The Old Store Cafe
Discover the cozy charm of The Old Store Cafe in Norris Point, where delightful meals meet the breathtaking landscapes of Gros Morne National Park.
Island Treasures
Explore Island Treasures in Corner Brook for unique gifts and local books that celebrate Newfoundland's rich culture and heritage.
Newfoundland Emporium
Explore Newfoundland Emporium for unique crafts and antiques that reflect the rich culture of Corner Brook, Newfoundland.
Explore Gros Morne National Park on the Map
A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Gros Morne National Park, mapped for you.
Gros Morne National Park Essentials
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Gros Morne National Park is located on the west coast of Newfoundland, Canada. The nearest major airport is Deer Lake Regional Airport (YDF), approximately 30 kilometers away. From the airport, you can rent a car or take a shuttle service to the park. There are also ferry services available from the mainland to Newfoundland, with the closest terminal being in Port aux Basques, about 200 kilometers from the park.
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The best way to get around Gros Morne National Park is by car, as public transportation options are limited. Car rentals are available at Deer Lake Regional Airport. Within the park, there are plenty of parking areas at major trailheads and attractions. Cycling is also an option for the more adventurous, and some areas can be explored on foot.
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The official currency in Canada is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Most establishments in and around Gros Morne National Park accept credit and debit cards. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, particularly for smaller businesses and more remote areas where card payments might not be available. ATMs can be found in nearby towns such as Rocky Harbour and Norris Point.
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Gros Morne National Park is generally very safe for tourists. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings and not leaving valuables in your car. Be aware of wildlife, especially moose, which are common in the area and can be dangerous if provoked.
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In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. There are medical facilities in nearby towns such as Rocky Harbour. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Park rangers are also available to assist with any issues or emergencies within the park. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the surrounding towns.
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Fashion: Do wear comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing, as the weather can change rapidly. Layers are advisable. Religion: There are no specific religious customs to be aware of, but it is always respectful to be mindful of local practices. Public Transport: Public transport is limited, so plan accordingly. If using local taxis, be sure to agree on the fare beforehand. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly hello or a nod. Locals are generally very friendly and welcoming. Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood, which is a specialty in the region. Don’t litter in the park; always carry your trash with you.
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To experience Gros Morne National Park like a local, consider visiting outside of the peak tourist season in July and August. This will allow you to enjoy the park with fewer crowds. Engage with park rangers and local guides, as they can provide valuable insights and recommendations. Don’t miss the chance to take a boat tour of Western Brook Pond, a stunning fjord that is one of the park’s highlights. Lastly, take some time to explore the local culture, including traditional Newfoundland music and cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Gros Morne National Park?
Useful Local Phrases for Gros Morne National Park
You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.
— Eve
Here are the phrases I use most often in Gros Morne National Park. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️
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- HelloBonjour
[bon-zhoor] - GoodbyeAu revoir
[oh ruh-vwah] - YesOui
[wee] - NoNon
[noh] - Please/You're welcomeS'il vous plaît/De rien
[seel voo pleh/dee ryen] - Thank youMerci
[mehr-see] - Excuse me/SorryExcusez-moi/Désolé
[ex-kew-zay mwah/day-zoh-lay] - How are you?Comment ça va?
[koh-moh sah vah] - Fine. And you?Bien. Et vous?
[byen. ay voo] - Do you speak English?Parlez-vous anglais?
[par-lay voo ahn-glay] - I don't understandJe ne comprends pas
[zhuh nuh kohm-prahn pah]
- HelloBonjour
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- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
[zhuh voo-dray vwahr lah kart, seel voo pleh] - I don't eat meatJe ne mange pas de viande
[zhuh nuh mahnj pah duh vyand] - Cheers!Santé!
[sahn-tay] - I would like to pay, pleaseJe voudrais payer, s'il vous plaît
[zhuh voo-dray pay-ay, seel voo pleh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseJe voudrais voir la carte, s'il vous plaît
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- Help!Au secours!
[oh suh-koor] - Go away!Allez-vous en!
[al-lay vooz ahn] - Call the Police!Appelez la police!
[ah-puh-lay lah poh-lees] - Call a doctor!Appelez un médecin!
[ah-puh-lay uh may-duh-sahn] - I'm lostJe suis perdu
[zhuh swee pair-doo] - I'm illJe suis malade
[zhuh swee mah-lahd]
- Help!Au secours!
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- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
[zhuh voo-dray ah-shet-ay] - I'm just lookingJe regarde juste
[zhuh ruh-gard zhewst] - How much is it?Combien ça coûte?
[kohm-byen sah koot] - That's too expensiveC'est trop cher
[say troh shair] - Can you lower the price?Pouvez-vous baisser le prix?
[poo-vey voo bay-say luh pree]
- I'd like to buy...Je voudrais acheter...
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- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
[kell uhr eh-teel] - It's one o'clockIl est une heure
[eel eh oon uhr] - Half past (10)Dix et demie
[dees ay duh-mee] - MorningMatin
[mah-tan] - AfternoonAprès-midi
[ah-pray mee-dee] - EveningSoir
[swahr] - YesterdayHier
[ee-yehr] - TodayAujourd'hui
[oh-zhoor-dwee] - TomorrowDemain
[duh-mahn] - 1Un
[uhn] - 2Deux
[duh] - 3Trois
[twah] - 4Quatre
[katruh] - 5Cinq
[sank] - 6Six
[sees] - 7Sept
[sett] - 8Huit
[weet] - 9Neuf
[nuf] - 10Dix
[dees]
- What time is it?Quelle heure est-il?
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- Where's a/the...?Où est...?
[oo eh] - What's the address?Quelle est l'adresse?
[kell eh la-dress] - Can you show me (on the map)?Pouvez-vous me montrer (sur la carte)?
[poo-vey voo muh mohn-tray (soor lah kart)] - When's the next (bus)?Quand est le prochain (bus)?
[kahn eh luh proh-shahn (boos)] - A ticket (to ....)Un billet (pour ...)
[uhn bee-yay (poor)]
- Where's a/the...?Où est...?
History of Gros Morne National Park
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Gros Morne National Park, located in Newfoundland and Labrador, is renowned for its unique geological features. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, designated for its exceptional examples of plate tectonics and the geological history of the Earth. The Tablelands, a key feature of the park, are a rare exposure of the Earth's mantle, thrust to the surface through tectonic activity. This phenomenon provides scientists and visitors alike with a window into the Earth's interior, offering invaluable insights into the processes that shaped our planet.
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Long before European explorers arrived, the area now known as Gros Morne National Park was home to the Indigenous peoples of the Mi'kmaq and Beothuk tribes. These communities thrived on the land, relying on its rich natural resources for sustenance. Archaeological sites within the park reveal evidence of their long-standing presence, including tools, pottery, and remnants of ancient settlements. The Mi'kmaq people continue to have a strong connection to the land, preserving and sharing their cultural heritage with visitors.
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European contact with the region began in the early 16th century when explorers such as John Cabot and Jacques Cartier navigated the waters off Newfoundland. The promise of abundant fish stocks drew fishermen from England, France, and Spain to the area. By the late 18th century, European settlers established permanent communities along the coast, engaging in fishing, logging, and small-scale farming. The rugged landscape and harsh climate posed significant challenges, but the settlers persevered, leaving a lasting impact on the cultural fabric of the region.
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The idea to establish Gros Morne National Park was first proposed in the early 20th century as part of a broader initiative to protect Canada's natural landscapes. Officially designated as a national park in 1973, Gros Morne was created to preserve its unique geological features, diverse ecosystems, and cultural heritage. The park's name, Gros Morne, is French for 'large mountain standing alone,' aptly describing the towering peak that dominates the landscape. Today, the park covers an area of over 1,800 square kilometers, attracting visitors from around the world.
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In 1987, Gros Morne National Park was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognizing its outstanding universal value. The designation highlights the park's geological significance, particularly the Tablelands and the coastal lowlands, which provide exceptional examples of the Earth's geological history. This prestigious status has helped elevate the park's profile on the global stage, attracting researchers, geologists, and tourists eager to explore its unique landscapes and learn about its rich history.
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The Majestic Wilderness of Gros Morne National Park
Gros Morne National Park, located on the west coast of Newfoundland, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning natural beauty. The park covers 1,805 square kilometers and offers a diverse range of landscapes, including towering cliffs, fjords, and pristine freshwater lakes. Visitors can explore the ancient Long Range Mountains, which are part of the Appalachian chain and offer breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with numerous hiking trails catering to all skill levels. One of the most popular hikes is the Gros Morne Mountain Trail, which takes you to the summit of the park's highest peak. For a more leisurely experience, the Western Brook Pond boat tour provides an unforgettable journey through a landlocked fjord, surrounded by dramatic cliffs and waterfalls. Wildlife is abundant in Gros Morne National Park, with opportunities to see moose, caribou, and a variety of bird species. The park's unique geology and rich biodiversity make it a fascinating destination for nature lovers and geology enthusiasts alike. Don't miss the chance to visit the Discovery Centre, where you can learn more about the park's natural and cultural history.