The first attractive destination in Newfoundland for us was Gros Morne National Park, where we wanted to stay for a few days. But after waking up to a white morning with a snowy Christmas atmosphere on May 12, we realized we had to come again once the newly fallen snow melted and the trails were passable without winter gear.
So we took advantage of the ranger’s offer, who showed us the officially closed Discovery Center and even let us onto the top terrace with a view, which the public does not normally have access to.
And we returned to the national park a few days later, when the trails were no longer covered in snow.
The Tablelands Trail is one of the most beautiful in Gros Morne National Park. But unlike in the past, when it led up the canyon to the top and back in a loop, it is currently maintained only to the edge of the canyon. And beyond that, it is unmarked and can be completed only at your own risk. Plus, it is forbidden to mark the trail with so-called muzhiks. So we only enjoyed a leisurely shortened version of the trail.
Thanks to the shortened version of the Tablelands Trail, we were able to enjoy the beauty of another hiking trail, Green Gardens, that day. From the parking lot along the road through the national park, you first go along the plain and then steeply down through the forests to the seashore. And here we were spotting the green gardens, after which the entire trail is named. Although it was May, the gardens were already beautifully green, complemented by beautiful coastal cliffs. The way back up was a bit more difficult, also because the sun was burning and it felt very hot. But the descent and subsequent ascent were worth it.
Both trails, i.e., Tablelands and Green Gardens, are located in the park’s southern part.
In the northern part of the park, a popular cruise spot on Western Brook Pond is located. However, from the parking lot, you have to walk about 2 km to the lake, then get on board. Tickets for the boat are ordered in advance, or those interested wait in a small harbor to see if any tickets are still available. We are the type of travelers who do not like to order something long in advance, nor to wait in line for a free seat, so we were satisfied with a walk to the lake and back. Since the boat was on a cruise, the sidewalk and the harbor were empty. The cruises are organized by a company called Bon Tours.
Of course, a visit to the visitor centre, as well as the nearby Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse and the nearby coastal path, was a must.
In the easternmost part of the national park is the Green Point Campground, managed by the park. The campground was quite full, but we found a place in the early evening. The place was quiet and pleasant. The next day, we also used services such as draining and refilling the water, which were included in the nightly rate. We paid 29 CAD in cash into an envelope.
After a pleasant night at the campsite, we set off towards the northern peninsula of this beautiful island of Newfoundland.
May 2025