The Hidden Wonders of Gros Morne National Park
Hiking our way through nature’s wonderland
When my friend Nancy and I showed up for our guided hike along Big Lookout Trail in Gros Morne National Park, Norm, the owner of the tour company, asked to see our water bottles. Forewarned we needed to pack the big guns, we showed him our 64 oz specials, the heaviest thing in our packs.
Norm’s weathered face twisted into a knowing smile. “Nope,” was all he said as he handed both of us bottles twice that size. “Fill ‘er up.”
It seems travelers are always searching for “hidden gems,” places not overrun by tourists (oh the irony). Spots that make your mouth fall open in wonder, but at the same time don’t seem like a bad Instagram cliché.
Gros Morne National Park, in western Newfoundland, is one such place. Nestled along the Rocky Harbour, it’s easily one of the most beautiful spots in a country known for its genetic blessings.
Yet it’s also one of the least populated. In June, the beginning of high season, Nancy and I hiked for hours seeing only a handful of people on the trails. It’s one of the most overlooked national parks in North America, and the locals aim to keep it that way.
As Maureen, Norm’s wife and business partner, packed us lunches that would’ve fed twenty…
