Solo Trip to Newfoundland: Exploring Gros Morne National Park and the Kindness of Locals
My solo trip to Newfoundland, Canada began with an unexpected twist. Before taking off from Toronto Airport, my plane started smoking on the runway, forcing us to taxi back for a four-hour delay—an interesting start to the trip. I reminded myself of what I wrote in my stress-free travel guide: when things are out of your control, go with the flow. So I grabbed a seat at an airport bar, had a couple of beers, and let the stress roll off. Hours later, I finally boarded again, flying into Deer Lake Airport—a tiny, two-gate airport about the size of two football fields—where my adventure in Gros Morne National Park would begin.
Arrival in Rocky Harbour: Finding My Stride
After landing, I picked up my rental car and drove to Rocky Harbour, a small, quiet town where I stayed at the Out East Adventure Centre hostel. The reality of being alone in an unfamiliar place hit me hard the next morning. A slight panic attack crept in—something I’ve come to expect when starting solo trips to new and exciting places.
But as soon as I started hiking Gros Morne Mountain, those uneasy feelings began to fade. Gros Morne, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is part of the Long Range Mountains and offers a challenging 10-mile loop hike. The trail features steep inclines, sweeping views of freshwater ponds, cascading waterfalls, and rugged beauty shaped over millions of years. The summit, standing at over 2,600 feet, offers panoramic views of the park’s glacially carved valleys and dramatic terrain.
Running into friendly locals on the trail gave me a sense of comfort. They enthusiastically shared insights about their culture, the land, and the wildlife, helping me appreciate the deeper connection Newfoundlanders have with their surroundings.
Moose Burgers and Coastal Exploration
After descending Gros Morne, I treated myself to a moose burger at a local spot called The Bouy & Arrow. It was the perfect meal after a long day of hiking. That evening, I explored the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse, perched along the rugged coastline with stunning views of Bonne Bay and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The endless waves and sprawling coastline were an incredible introduction to the beauty Newfoundland had to offer.
Later that night, I visited the site of the SS Ethie, a famous 1919 shipwreck. Though tragic, the story is one of resilience. All passengers—including a baby sent ashore in a mailbag—were rescued by locals using a makeshift rope system. It was a reminder of Newfoundland’s historic ties to the sea and its people’s enduring bravery. The chilling cold waters and harsh conditions of that time made the story even more remarkable. Today, the tale lives on in local plays, keeping the legend of the SS Ethie alive for generations.
Green Gardens and the Tablelands: A Geological Marvel
The next morning started with a simple breakfast at the Fisherman’s Landing Restaurant—bacon, eggs, and house potatoes. From there, I wrapped around Bonne Bay on highways 430 and 431, stopping by the Gros Morne Visitor Center to learn more about the area’s geology. This was to prepared for the most anticipated spot of the entire trip, the Tablelands.
Before visiting the Tablelands, I hiked the Green Gardens Trail, a stunning route along the cliffs of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The trail winds through lush green fields, sea stacks, and dramatic rock formations, where the coastal cliffs meet the wild waves. Sitting there, I could’ve spent hours listening to the crash of the ocean and watching seabirds soar overhead.
Next up was the Tablelands. This area is a true geological marvel—one of the few places on Earth where the Earth’s mantle is exposed. The orange-brown rock, created by tectonic forces millions of years ago, stands in stark contrast to the surrounding green landscape, making it feel like I was walking on another planet.
That evening, I stopped in the small town of Woody Point for a seafood dinner at The Merchant Warehouse, dining by the water at Bonne Bay as the sun dipped behind the mountains. On the drive back to Rocky Harbour, I dropped by a bar at the Ocean View Hotel, where a friendly waitress recommended a selection of local beers. When she asked why I was visiting Gros Morne alone, all I could say was, “It looked cool.” And it was—beyond anything I had imagined.
Western Brook Pond and the Beauty of Cow Head
On my final full day, I started with breakfast at Fisherman’s Landing—a simple meal that felt warm, familiar, and satisfying. I then drove to Western Brook Pond for a boat tour I’d been anticipating all week.
I arrived an hour early, relaxing in an Adirondack chair with incredible views of the fjord in the distance. The wind was fierce that day, making the boat ride both exhilarating and intense. The fjords, with their towering cliffs and pristine waters, was breathtaking. The guides shared fascinating stories about the landscape, and at one point, I gave up my top deck seat for an older couple. I moved to the bow and, within minutes, was completely soaked. But standing there, immersed in the power of the water and wind, was an experience I’ll never forget.
After drying off and hiking back, I drove to the small community of Cow Head and stopped at the Shallow Bay Motel & Cabins for a bowl of lobster chowder. Sitting there in peace, I reflected on the trip and realized that the beauty of Newfoundland wasn’t just in its landscapes but in its peacefulness and diversity.
That night, I returned my rental car at Deer Lake Airport around 11 p.m. Since my flight was at 5 a.m., I skipped the hotel and slept in the tiny two-gate airport—a rough but memorable experience. Looking back, I wouldn’t change a thing.
The Kindness of Newfoundland’s Locals
This trip wasn’t just about the scenery—it was about the people. Newfoundland locals blew me away with their warmth, kindness, and genuine curiosity about my journey. Everywhere I went, people asked about my story and why I chose to explore their home, making me feel incredibly welcome.
One local even shared the story of “Come From Away,” the incredible tale of Newfoundland’s hospitality after 9/11, when all flights across North America were grounded, and thousands of passengers were unexpectedly diverted to Gander International Airport. The small town of Gander, along with nearby communities, welcomed these stranded travelers with open arms. Locals opened their homes, provided food, clothing, and shelter, and went out of their way to ensure everyone felt safe and cared for. This extraordinary act of kindness perfectly reflects the generous and welcoming spirit of Newfoundland.
The people of Newfoundland made this trip truly unforgettable. Their generosity and openness are what I’ll remember most.
Reflections on My Solo Trip
My trip to Newfoundland was a mix of challenge, wonder, and connection. From the rugged beauty of Gros Morne Mountain and the Tablelands to the fjords of Western Brook Pond, quiet coastal towns, and incredible locals, every moment left a lasting impression.
For a closer look at this unforgettable adventure, check out the full YouTube video below on Snailtrailoutdoors! 🌄🎥
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