Gros Morne Approach Trail

The Gros Morne Approach Trail is a moderate 9 km out-and-back from Route 430 to a viewing platform at the foot of Gros Morne Mountain. It follows Crow Gulch Brook through forest, climbing gradually to the mountain base. Allow at least 2.5 to 3.5 hours; the 463 m of elevation gain makes this a proper half-day walk even without the summit. The brookside route, waterfall bridge and closer views of the mountain are the payoff. You can turn back at the bridge for a shorter outing and still reach a memorable spot.

The hard-packed natural trail stays beside the water through forest, with waterfalls appearing through the trees and views toward Crow Cliff and the mountain. About halfway, a wooden bridge overlooks a waterfall. The marked route to the bridge is about 2.3 km one way, making a roughly 4.6 km return if you want a shorter hike. Continue on the Approach Trail to the viewing platform for the full walk. This endpoint is at the mountain’s base, not its summit; the platform is the turnaround for this trail.

The summit route begins at the platform, but it is a different and much harder commitment. It adds an 8 km difficult loop with a steep scree climb, for a combined 17 km return from the parking area. If you came for the Approach, turn around at the platform and retrace the same trail. The route recorded here does not include any part of the summit loop.

Use the Gros Morne Mountain trail parking area beside Route 430. The park map marks toilets at this trailhead, but their type is not specified. A Parks Canada national park pass is required for entry. Pets may use the Approach but must stay leashed; Parks Canada discourages dogs on the separate summit route.