How to Summit Magnificent Gros Morne Mountain in Newfoundland

The Gros Morne Mountain Trail is one of the best hikes in Gros Morne National Park. This hike is very strenuous but will provide you with excellent views of the area as long as the weather is clear.

Gros Morne, meaning “big lone mountain”, is a unique habitat of arctic tundra. At the summit, views include the beautiful Ten Mile Pond and the East Arm fjord of Bonne Bay. Doesn’t this sound amazing?

Imagine reaching the summit to be met with clouds, rain, wind, and fog rolling in – that is our experience! That being said, hiking Gros Morne Mountain is a must-do. We completed this hike as part of our epic 12 day itinerary in Newfoundland.

Before You Venture Out

• Fees are required when visiting all trails at Gros Morne National Park. You can purchase your Discovery Pass online before arriving or at the following locations:
  • Gros Morne Entrance Kiosk in Wiltondale
  • Visitor Centre in Rocky Harbour
  • Discovery Centre in Woody Point
  • Admin Building in Rocky Harbour
• Per Parks Canada: “Spring Closure – To protect wildlife during critical weeks of growth and reproduction, the mountain portion, from the base platform, is closed to hikers beginning on May 1 and re-opens on the last Friday in June.”
• Parks Canada recommends that visitors DO NOT take their dogs to the summit of Gros Morne Mountain.
• Parking was not an issue for us here, but still plan to get to these hikes early if you can.
• There is a pit toilet at the trailhead and one located along the trail before you begin the summit portion of Gros Morne Mountain.
• Permits are required for camping at Ferry Gulch.
• Anything that you bring must be packed out – so if you need to use toilet paper, you must pack it out with you. Please practice Leave No Trace.

Weather and General Safety

• There is no food, water, or shelter on the mountain.
• Be aware of the weather at all times. You might experience all four seasons in one day! Sun, rain, fog, wind, heat, cold, you name it.
• Bring lunch and plenty of snacks with lots of water. For this long hike, carry at least 3 liters of water per person.

Animal Safety in Newfoundland

• Newfoundland is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including iconic species like moose, caribou, black bears, lynx, and foxes. In addition, the island is a home to numerous bird and fish species. While encounters with predators are rare, there’s one creature you’re almost certain to meet: the infamous black fly!
• Newfoundland’s pristine natural environment provides the perfect habitat for black flies, which are active from spring through summer. If you’ve been here, you know just how persistent they can be. Count on some mosquitoes as well!
• Keep DEET bug spray handy, and a head net will become your best friend if you get swarmed.

Gros Morne Mountain Trail – very strenuous – 11 miles, loop, 2,800 ft. gain

This hike can be broken up into two parts. Part 1 includes the gradual climb to the base of the mountain, and Part 2 includes the steep boulder gully and summit of the mountain with return to the base.

Part 1

This epic hike starts at the Gros Morne Mountain Trailhead. The first section of the trail leads to a waterfall and small ponds at the base of the mountain. There is a steady uphill climb to reach this point.

If time or tiredness do not permit the full hike, the first part of the hike to the viewing platform is still worthwhile. Return the same way you came back to the parking lot. There is a pit toilet located here before you ascend the mountain. Part 2 is much steeper – get ready!

Part 2

The second part of the hike follows a very steep boulder trail to the summit of the mountain, passing through a series of zones, each of which has its characteristic plants and animals. Be prepared for rapid temperature changes, lack of water, high wind, and sun.

This is the most difficult part of the hike and is not recommended for small children or pets. Be sure to take lots of breaks and turn around for some great views! The climb will take at least one hour as the trail gains about 1,500 feet in elevation over a short length. This section of trail is hard, but worth it!

As you reach the top, the trail flattens out but still ascends until you reach the summit. Follow the stone cairns that mark the trail across the mountaintop to the viewpoint overlooking Ten Mile Pond. This is the best viewpoint of the trail if the weather is good! Unfortunately for us, we couldn’t see a thing!

After this, the trail descends the north-east flank with awesome views of the mountains below, winding through Ferry Gulch, and connecting with the first section of the trail. You’ll reach a pond with picnic spots and. Then, continue hiking until you reach the fork in the trail where you’ll head to the left, back toward the viewing platform and parking area.

Where To Stay

🛏️ Stay at one of the best accommodations near Gros Morne National Park. We recommend using Rocky Harbour or Norris Point as a home base for a few days while you explore this amazing destination. Here are some recommendations:

• The Tides Inn at Norris Point, NL – nearby Rocky Harbour, friendly owners, free breakfast, and beautiful surroundings await at this top-rated location.
• The Candlelight Inn – (adults only) free breakfast served from 7:30-9 am, an onsite fire pit with modern and casual comforts. It’s top-rated too!
• Oceanview Hotel – entertainment 5 nights a week. Choose from a variety of room options and enjoy great meals featuring locally sourced ingredients on site.
• Gros Morne Tiny Chalets – within walking distance to restaurants and shops, outdoor firepit, and near the Gros Morne Wildlife Museum.

Final Reflections

Gros Morne Mountain Trail is one of the best hikes in Gros Morne National Park. This hike was very strenuous and the climb up the boulder area was definitely tiring. This section gains about 1,500 feet in just 3/4 mile.

As we started our hike, the skies were clear and everything looked great for the day. However, once we reached the summit we were met with fog, wind, rain, and cold. Needless to say, we really couldn’t see anything on the summit so we were very bummed out. You can’t always win, right?

Overall, this hike was still totally awesome! After you explore Gros Morne Mountain, check out some fun things to do in Norris Point & Rocky Harbor