Visited 15JUL 2018

This is a huge park situated on a vast body of fresh water, which makes it not officially a fjord, although the soaring cliffs and rock formations make it seem like one.  We took the Western Brook boat tour to take in the dramatic rock formations and occasional waterfalls.  It is good to book in advance with BonTours as this is a popular activity. 

One aspect that is not so well-liked is the 3-kilometre walk from the park to the dock on rough gravel through the bog-like but attractive scenery.  Beware those black flies if the wind isn’t blowing.   It seems like there are plans to have some sort of transport in the future for those unwilling or unable to make the trek.  

The tiny town of Rocky Harbour is a nice base for visiting the park with several hotels, upscale cabins and some eateries.  The only real pub in town is nice but doesn’t take advantage of its great view. The Parks Welcome Centre is only 10 minutes away. 

Another notable area in the park is the Tablelands, an exposed section of mantle rock from the Earth’s crust, which looks strikingly barren in contrast to the greenery of Gros Morne.  There is an easy hiking trail which enables enjoyment of the unusually coloured rocks from deep within.

One thing to note is that the size of the park means you have to allow time, for instance, if you have booked a boat or other kind of tour. Western Brook is about a 40-minute drive from the Visitor’s centre near Rocky Harbour, and the Tablelands are an hour in the opposite direction.

A great part of the charm of Gros Morne lies in its vastness and being stretched out on a lovely waterfront.