Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne National Park protects dramatic mountain, fjord, and coastal landscapes on the west coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1987) for its exceptional geology, the park showcases Earth’s tectonic history in the orange-brown Tablelands—a rare exposure of mantle rocks at the surface—alongside glacier-carved valleys, landlocked fjords, and boreal forest.

At a glance — Gros Morne National Park

Location	West coast of Newfoundland (Great Northern Peninsula), around Bonne Bay and coastal lowlands
Province	Newfoundland and Labrador
Established	1973
Area (approx.)	≈ 1,805 km²
UNESCO World Heritage	Inscribed 1987 — outstanding geology (Tablelands ophiolite/tectonics)
Notable features	Tablelands (exposed mantle/serpentinized peridotite); Western Brook Pond (freshwater fjord); Gros Morne Mountain; Long Range Mountains & tuckamore forest; coastal headlands & beaches
Nearby communities	Rocky Harbour, Norris Point, Woody Point, Trout River, Cow Head; travel hubs: Deer Lake (airport), Corner Brook (services)

Overview

Gros Morne lies within the northern Appalachians’ Long Range Mountains. The park is a mosaic of mountains and plateaus dropping to coastal plains and coves. Visitors come for hiking and backcountry travel, fjord boat tours, day-use trails and viewpoints, coastal drives, and interpretive programs that connect geology with living ecosystems and culture.

Geology and World Heritage

Gros Morne is celebrated for telling the story of plate tectonics in the field. The Tablelands—a stark, rust-coloured massif—consist largely of peridotite brought to the surface when ancient ocean crust and upper mantle were thrust up during continental collision. Elsewhere, cliffs and headlands reveal layered sedimentary rocks, while glacial landforms (U-shaped valleys, hanging valleys, moraines) frame deeply incised troughs like Western Brook Pond, a former sea fjord now isolated and fresh.

Landscapes and ecosystems

• Mountains and barrens: Wind-exposed alpine barrens, tuckamore (stunted spruce/fir), and patterned ground on high plateaus.
• Boreal forest and wetlands: Black spruce, balsam fir, birch, and extensive peatlands support songbirds and waterfowl.
• Coasts and fjords: Sea stacks, beaches, and estuaries along the Gulf of St. Lawrence; freshwater fjords and lakes inland.

Wildlife commonly seen includes moose, black bear, red fox, snowshoe hare, beaver, and migratory birds; marine mammals are visible seasonally from coastal viewpoints.

Things to do

• Hiking: From short interpretive walks (e.g., Tablelands Trail) to full-day routes like Gros Morne Mountain (strenuous; seasonal opening based on conditions). Boardwalks and lookouts access coastal and wetland habitats.
• Fjord experience: Day hikes and guided boats access Western Brook Pond for cliff and waterfall views.
• Backcountry: Multi-day traverses and remote valleys require strong navigation skills; registration/permits apply.
• Winter: Snowshoeing and skiing opportunities exist when conditions permit (check bulletins and avalanche advisories where applicable).
• Interpretive programs: Visitor centres and guided activities introduce park geology, wildlife, and culture.

Access and visitor services

Highway 430 (Viking Trail) and feeder roads reach trailheads and communities within/around the park. Visitor centres in the Bonne Bay area provide trip-planning, permits, and exhibits. Reservations for frontcountry/backcountry camping and popular activities are recommended in peak season. Services vary by community and season.

Safety and low-impact travel

Weather changes quickly; fog, wind, and cold can occur even in summer. Trails may be wet, rocky, or steep. Carry layers, maps, and adequate food/water; tell someone your route. Keep safe distances from wildlife and store food securely. Follow fire bans, stay on marked routes to protect fragile soils and plants (especially on the Tablelands), and pack out all waste.

See also

• National parks of Canada • Geography of Canada • Travel in Canada
• Climate of Canada • Provinces of Canada • Territories of Canada

External links (official)

• Parks Canada — Gros Morne National Park: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/nl/grosmorne
• UNESCO World Heritage Centre — Gros Morne National Park: https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/419
• Parks Canada — Reservations (camping/backcountry/day use): https://reservation.pc.gc.ca
• Parks Canada — Important bulletins (closures, fire bans, wildlife): https://parks.canada.ca/amnc-nmca/imp