If you’ve dreamed of epic Canadian wilderness but want to skip the crowds of Banff, there’s a national park waiting to surprise you on the edge of the Atlantic. Welcome to Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador’s spectacular but under-visited marvel—where ancient fjords, rugged coastlines, and rare geological wonders create an experience you’ll share only with nature (and, probably, a moose or two).
Untouched Wilderness in Canada’s Far East
Located on the west coast of Newfoundland, Gros Morne National Park is a world away from the well-trodden trails of Banff. Despite its jaw-dropping beauty and UNESCO World Heritage status, fewer than 250,000 people visit Gros Morne each year—compared to Banff’s 4.5 million. That means you’ll have mile after mile of mountain paths, emerald forests, and dramatic fjords almost entirely to yourself.
Getting There: Remote, Yet Remarkably Accessible
Newfoundland and Labrador is Canada’s easternmost and one of its least populated provinces. But getting to Gros Morne is easier than you might expect. Direct flights connect Toronto to Deer Lake Regional Airport, and from there, it’s just a 25-minute drive to the park’s entrance. In a province home to under 600,000 people—and more than 120,000 moose—you’ll quickly realize that wilderness isn’t just a backdrop here; it’s the main event.
Landscapes Unlike Anywhere Else in North America
Spread across nearly 700 square miles, Gros Morne delivers a tapestry of ecosystems and adventures. Here’s what makes it so special:
- Fjords and Mountains: The park’s iconic fjords and Gros Morne Mountain provide vistas usually reserved for Norway, with deep blue waters carved by ancient glaciers and peaks that challenge even seasoned hikers.
- The Tablelands: At lower elevations, discover the surreal Tablelands—one of Earth’s rare spots where the planet’s mantle pushes up through the crust, forming a rusty, alien-like landscape found in only a handful of places worldwide.
- Coastal Trails and Boreal Forest: Amble along the wild Gulf of St. Lawrence, or lose yourself in the lush, mossy woods—often with nobody else in sight except the province’s abundant wildlife.
Adventures for Every Explorer
Whether you prefer gentle strolls or hardcore treks, Gros Morne offers it all:
- Stroll scenic coastal paths where the Atlantic meets dramatic cliffs.
- Take on the all-day challenge of climbing Gros Morne Mountain for unrivaled fjord views.
- Venture to remote trailheads only accessible by boat, compass, and a sense of true adventure.
And wherever you wander, the chances are good you’ll see more moose than people—a reminder of this park’s wild, solitary beauty.
Why Gros Morne Belongs on Your Bucket List
It’s easy to be drawn to Canada’s famous parks, but Gros Morne is where you go to experience the true meaning of wilderness—unspoiled, unforgettable, and full of surprises. The geological history is staggering, the hiking world-class, and the silence profound. Most remarkably, you can experience it all without the crowds that have made Banff a selfie hotspot.
“If you go, chances are you’ll have it all to yourself. Well, to yourself and the moose.”
Planning Your Visit
- Getting There: Fly into Deer Lake Regional Airport for quick access to the park.
- When to Go: Late spring to early fall is prime time for hiking and wildlife.
- What Not to Miss: The Tablelands, fjord boat tours, summit hikes, and coastal sunsets.
If you’re looking for the soul of Canadian wilderness—without the crowds—Gros Morne National Park is the adventure you didn’t know you needed. Go east, and let the wild landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador change your definition of awe.
