Hiking to the Stunning Lookout of Gros Morne Mountain in Newfoundland & Labrador
Hiking to the Stunning Lookout of Gros Morne Mountain in Newfoundland & Labrador
Gros Morne Mountain is the second-highest peak in Newfoundland and offers one of the most rewarding hikes in Gros Morne National Park. This challenging trail takes visitors through diverse landscapes, from lush forests to barren alpine terrain, culminating in breathtaking panoramic views of the Long Range Mountains and Bonne Bay. Completing this hike is an unforgettable experience for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a demanding yet visually stunning adventure.
Adventure Guide to Hiking to the Stunning Lookout of Gros Morne Mountain
Location & Trail Overview
- Trailhead: Begins at the parking lot on Route 430, near the town of Rocky Harbour.
- Distance: 16 km (10 miles) round trip.
- Duration: 6-8 hours.
- Elevation Gain: 806 meters (2,644 feet).
- Trail Type: Loop, with a marked ascent and separate descent route.
Why It’s Special
- The summit offers a 360-degree view, providing an unobstructed look at fjords, coastal inlets, and the park’s rugged terrain.
- The alpine plateau showcases unique Arctic tundra vegetation usually found much farther north.
- Wildlife sightings include caribou, Arctic hares, and ptarmigans in the upper regions of the mountain.
Key Features & Amenities
- Trail Markers: Clearly marked with signage and rock cairns.
- Boardwalks & Bridges: Installed in some sections to protect fragile ecosystems.
- Emergency Shelters: Available in case of sudden weather changes.
Local Insights
- Gros Morne Mountain is shaped by glacial activity, creating dramatic slopes and rock formations.
- The peak’s barren landscape is due to harsh conditions, limiting tree growth and contributing to its tundra-like appearance.
- This area is part of the Gros Morne UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its geological significance.
Visitor Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Late June to September for favorable weather. Snow and ice can persist into early summer.
- What to Bring:
- Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support.
- Windproof and waterproof clothing.
- High-energy snacks and at least 2 liters of water.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent.
- Getting There: From Deer Lake Airport, drive approximately 1.5 hours north on the Viking Trail (Route 430) to the trailhead.
Adventure Map
Reviews
Victoria Landreville4 months ago
Incredible hike, must do if you’re visiting Gros Morne. Careful though, this is a full day hike and a difficult and technical ascent. It’s a rocky terrain, you’re walking on large rocks almost the entire way up. Do not do this in the rain as it would be very slippery, bring layers (it’s cold at the top) and be sure to start the hike before 11am. It took me 7 hours as a fit, 30 yr old with hiking experience but took some older couples about 11 hours. The views at the top and along the way are incredible. I personally didn’t find the descent too bad; I didn’t have poles with me and was fine.
Randy Vermeer4 months ago
Tough trail but worth the effort. Don't think that the work is done when you reach the summit, the decent is quite a bit longer and at least as difficult. We hiked on a semi warm (23°C) day and we needed every drop of our 3 litres of water (per person). Took about 7.5hrs total including a nice lunch break at the top. Bring good sturdy shoes/boots, start early. Not for the faint of heart.
Renaud Lespérance6 months ago
A difficult hike, not recommended to beginners, reward with a breathtaking view at the summit. The first part of the trail is an easy 4-5km to reach the base of the main ascension, about 1-1.5h. The second part can be a challenging 8km hike. It starts with a steep 500m climb in the first 1.5km. You will need good hiking boots and plainly of water as the climb is on uneven, moving rock and in the sun if it's a sunny day. After the ascension you will walk at the top and it could be windy and cool so it's a good idea to bring a rain jacket to block the wind. The return can be long and taxing on your knees, but the view continues to be worth it. Bring at least 2-3l of water per person and more on sunny day. Plan between 6 and 8h for both hikes, depending on the weather and your knees.
Chris Morrisa month ago
Much tougher than I thought. I had heard the night before at the local anchors aweigh show that an 82 year old lady completed it that day, so I assumed good to go! Short sighted planning led to a moderate hangover on the morning of my hike, but I didn't bail and was so satisfied that I went. Uphill hard on the heart and lungs, downhill had both my knees screaming at me. By the end even a moderate downslope just killed my knees. Found a couple dead sticks which helped to support my weight (had gloves on). The beauty of the nature was some of the best of my life. (44 years old, average fitness)
AJ Nunes3 months ago
Definitely the hardest, but most rewarding hike we have ever done. First part is very easy, scaling the gulley is tough work, and it was very cold at the top (late October). We aren’t hardcore hikers (we do a hiking trip once a year with zero prep lol, we are 33) and we did this in just under 7 hours with some stops for food and rest.
