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Gros Morne Mountain

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Mountain
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Gros Morne Mountain (Canada)

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Gros Morne Mountain is the second-highest peak on the island of Newfoundland, rising to 806 meters within the eponymous national park on the west coast. Part of the Long Range Mountains, an outpost of the Appalachian chain, the mountain is primarily composed of resilient quartzite. The area is geologically world-renowned as a textbook example of plate tectonics, particularly due to the nearby Tablelands where Earth's mantle has been thrust to the surface. The summit of Gros Morne features a barren alpine tundra landscape, providing a stark contrast to the lush forests and deep fjords at its base. This high-altitude environment is a crucial habitat for rock ptarmigan and arctic hares, which are uniquely adapted to the harsh conditions. The hiking trail to the summit is one of the most challenging and sought-after in the province, offering panoramic views of the Ten Mile Pond fjord. Because of its exceptional geological value and natural beauty, the park was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C-6-7-5051015161272-3
Rain mm12811393889594110118134125134133

📋 Practical info

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Getting there
The main trailhead is typically accessed directly from the national park highway, featuring clear signage leading visitors to the large, designated starting area.
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Best season
The trail is generally only accessible from late June to autumn, as it is strictly closed during the spring months to protect local wildlife during their breeding season.
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Terrain & paths
Hikers face a very strenuous, steep climb over loose rocks and boulders, eventually leading to an entirely barren, flat-topped alpine plateau environment.
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What to bring
Sturdy hiking boots with vital ankle support, multiple layers of warm clothing, windproof gear, and plenty of water are usually mandatory for this harsh mountain hike.
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Parking
There is typically a large, well-marked, and paved parking lot situated directly at the trailhead, which is heavily maintained by the national park authorities.
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Safety
Weather on the plateau is notorious for changing rapidly to freezing, zero-visibility conditions; hikers must closely monitor local forecasts before departing.
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Time needed
Completing the full, strenuous loop trail over the mountain typically requires about seven to nine hours of sustained physical exertion for most average hikers.

Geography

Coordinates
49.60000, -57.80000

Facts

  • Gros Morne Mountain stands at an elevation of 806 meters.
  • Gros Morne National Park was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1987.
  • The mountain is composed of quartzite dating back over 500 million years.
  • The summit hiking trail is a rigorous 16-kilometer loop.
  • The mountaintop hosts an arctic-alpine environment rare for its latitude.
  • The name 'Gros Morne' is French for 'great somber mountain' or 'large brooding mountain'.

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Sights in the town Gros Morne Mountain (7)

Green Point Hill🌿 nature

Green Point Hill: a hill in the Long Range Mountains near Gros Morne, overlooking the coast.

Baker's Brook Fall📍 landmark

A waterfall on Baker's Brook in the Morne Mountain area, cascading over rocks.

Photographer's Lookout🌿 nature

A popular lookout in Morne Mountain offering prime photography spots of the landscape.

Berry Hill🌿 nature

A hill in Morne Mountain, covered in berry bushes and offering views.

Crow Cliff📍 landmark

Crow Cliff: a seaside cliff in the Gros Morne area, known for seabird colonies.

Hike Grose Morne Mountain📍 landmark

A popular hiking trail up Gros Morne Mountain, offering challenging climbs and summit views.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is Gros Morne Mountain located?
In Gros Morne National Park on the west coast of Newfoundland.
How strenuous is the hike?
Very strenuous; a 16km loop with a steep scree slope climb.
Can you climb the mountain anytime?
No, it is closed from May 1 to late June to protect nesting ptarmigans.
What can you see from the summit?
A spectacular view overlooking the Ten Mile Pond fjord.
Are there wild animals there?
Moose and rock ptarmigan are frequently spotted by hikers.
Gros Morne Mountain: where is it located?
Gros Morne Mountain is located in Canada.
Gros Morne Mountain: what is there to see?
Highlights include Green Point Hill, Baker's Brook Fall, Photographer's Lookout.
Gros Morne Mountain: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.
Gros Morne Mountain: why is it worth visiting?
Gros Morne Mountain is the second-highest peak on the island of Newfoundland, rising to 806 meters within the eponymous national park on the west coast.
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