Overview
Gros Morne National Park is a World Heritage Site on the west coast of Newfoundland. It is known for its geology: the Tablelands, a barren plateau of bright orange rock that comes from the Earth's mantle, and Western Brook Pond, a freshwater fjord enclosed by steep cliffs.
The park also has hiking trails, sea stacks, fishing villages and a rugged coast. A boat tour on Western Brook Pond is the highlight for many visitors, and the hike up Gros Morne Mountain rewards fit walkers with views over the fjords. The weather can be cool, windy and foggy even in summer.
Highlights
- The Western Brook Pond boat tour
- The Tablelands, a mantle-rock plateau
- The Gros Morne Mountain hike, 806 m
- Fishing villages around Bonne Bay, such as Woody Point and Norris Point
Best time to visit
June to September is the main season, with boat tours and facilities open. July and August are the warmest. Whale and bird sightings are good in early summer, and the autumn colour in September is lovely. Winter is cold and snowy, with limited services.
- JanJanuary: Not ideal
- FebFebruary: Not ideal
- MarMarch: Not ideal
- AprApril: Not ideal
- MayMay: Good
- JunJune: Best
- JulJuly: Best
- AugAugust: Best
- SepSeptember: Best
- OctOctober: Good
- NovNovember: Not ideal
- DecDecember: Not ideal
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Deer Lake (YDF), about 30 minutes from the park, and rent a car. Air Canada and WestJet fly to Deer Lake via St. John's or other cities. A car is essential, as public transport is minimal. Book boat tours and lodging early in summer.
What to expect
Easy to moderate. Many viewpoints are close to the road, while Gros Morne Mountain is a strenuous 16 km hike. The weather can change quickly, and fog can hide the views.
Practical tips
- Reserve the Western Brook Pond boat tour in advance.
- Check weather and wind conditions before climbing Gros Morne Mountain.
- Take warm, waterproof layers even in July and August.
- Respect the Tablelands: stay on marked trails to protect the fragile ground.
Frequently asked questions
How do I get to Gros Morne?
Fly to Deer Lake and drive about 30 to 40 minutes to Rocky Harbour or Norris Point.
What are the Tablelands?
A plateau of rock from the Earth's mantle, exposed millions of years ago, with an unusual orange-brown colour.
Is the boat tour worth it?
Yes. It is considered one of the best experiences in the park, with sheer cliffs and waterfalls.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Slimguy (CC BY-SA 3.0) via Wikimedia Commons.
