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Tablelands Trail: Walk on Earth's Mantle

Hike through a geological wonder in Gros Morne National Park, where you can explore the Earth's mantle and witness a landscape like no other.

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The Tablelands Trail in Gros Morne National Park offers a unique opportunity to walk on the Earth's exposed mantle, a landscape usually found far below the crust. This easy 4km trail reveals a surreal, barren, orange environment formed by ancient continental collisions, offering panoramic views and unusual plant life.

A brief summary to Tablelands Trail

  • Bonne Bay Rd, Bonne Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador, A0K 1P0, CA
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Local tips

  • Bring water and snacks, as the barren landscape offers no natural sources.
  • Wear sturdy footwear, as the trail can be rocky in places.
  • Check the weather forecast before you go, as conditions can change rapidly.
  • Consider joining a guided tour to learn more about the area's geology and ecology.
  • Purchase a Parks Canada Discovery Pass for access to Gros Morne National Park and other national parks.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Rocky Harbour, drive south on Viking Trail (Route 430) for approximately 37 km. Turn right onto Bonne Bay Road (Route 431) towards Woody Point. Continue for 5 km; the Tablelands Trail parking area will be on your left. A National Park entry pass is required.

  • Walking

    From the Tablelands Trail parking area, the trailhead is easily accessible. Follow the signs and information boards to the start of the 4km trail. The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, with boardwalks in wetter areas.

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Discover more about Tablelands Trail

The Tablelands Trail, located in Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland, presents an otherworldly hiking experience unlike any other. Here, you can walk directly on the Earth's mantle, a geological oddity pushed to the surface by colliding continents millions of years ago. The trail is an easy 4km return, following an old roadbed that skirts the base of the mountain. The landscape is dominated by a striking orange, barren terrain, a result of the peridotite rock's high iron content rusting upon exposure to air. This surreal environment, often compared to Mars, contrasts sharply with the surrounding green hills and blue saltwater of Gros Morne. The Tablelands are not only a visual spectacle but also a significant geological site, offering insights into plate tectonics and the Earth's formation. Along the trail, interpretive panels provide information about the area's unique geology, flora, and fauna. The path leads to Winter House Brook Canyon, a glacially carved valley that showcases the dramatic impact of ice age活动. For a shorter walk, the Serpentine Loop offers a closer look at the Tablelands' characteristic plants. Guided tours are available from July to September, providing in-depth knowledge of the area's geology and plant life.

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