After conquering the trail, my husband and I got the big question: Is the Gros Morne hike worth it?
My answer? Absolutely! But is it for everyone? Definitely not.
It’s not the hardest hike we’ve ever done, but make no mistake—it’s a challenging one.
If you’re up for a challenge, I can’t recommend it enough! The Gros Morne hike is truly worth every step—a must-do adventure that’s as rewarding as it is unforgettable.
It was easily one of our favorite experiences on our two-week trip to Newfoundland.
Everything You Need to Know about the Gros Morne Hike
Tip: This trail is not suitable for young kids, those with bad knees, or anyone uncomfortable with heights.
Distance: 10.5 miles (17 km) round trip
Elevation Gain: 2,644 feet (806 meters)
Difficulty: Challenging with steep rocky sections and dramatic drop-offs.
How long is the Gros Morne hike? Estimated to take between 6 1/2 to 9 hours, depending on skill level and how many photo breaks taken.
Best Time of Year: From early July to mid-October. Check the park website for opening dates.
Gros Morne Weather: Wear layers as with any mountain the weather can change quickly.
Sun Exposure: Mostly sun, barely any shade.
Are Pets Allowed? Not allowed.
Restrooms: Available at the trailhead and at intervals along the trail, including outhouses about a quarter and halfway through the hike.
What to Wear & Tips for the Gros Morne Hike
- Dress in layers – the climb up will be warm, but at the top and the hike down will be cold. Wear stretchy pants for climbing and pack a waterproof windbreaker and sweatshirt.
- Wear a hat and sunscreen.
- Sturdy shoes. Most hikes don’t necessarily require hiking boots, but with the rocky terrain, I wish I had a pair versus trail runners.
- Bring plenty of water. It is recommended to bring at least three liters per person and more if it is a hot day.
- Pack lunch and snacks. An all-day hike like this requires energy! Don’t forget, whatever you bring in, you must carry out.
- Small first aid kit with the basics and also pack toilet paper.
- Be sure to check out these other 20 tips before your Newfoundland trip. They will make your adventure smoother and more enjoyable!
What It’s Like to Hike the Gros Morne Summit Trail
It’s time to hike the actual trail! Are you ready?
The trailhead parking lot is big and has many available spots. It is located east of the Visitor Center. There, you’ll find a restroom and, on most days, a ranger to answer any questions.
My husband and I tackled the trail at the end of August on an exceptionally hot day. A ranger was distributing extra water, explaining that over the past few years, they’ve had to rescue quite a few hikers who underestimated the conditions.
You’ll begin your day on the Approach Trail from the lot, a fairly easy and pleasant walk with a gradual incline and some stairs.
I overheard someone suggest this part of the trail is grueling, so if you think so, you might want to consider turning around once you hit the viewing platform at the base of the mountain.
But I really hope you don’t! Just remember the views are totally worth it!
There’s a reason when you search, best hikes in Gros Morne, this trail tops the list.
The trail meanders through a dense forest and follows Crow Gulch Brook.
Along the way, you’ll see beautiful views of waterfalls, marshes, and a flowing stream.
Once you arrive at the viewing platform at the base of Gros Morne Mountain, the “easy” part ends and the tough part begins.
There’s even a do-not-underestimate-the-mountain sign at this point. Letting you know you have at least four more hours to go if you hike on and return from here.
It also recommends not proceeding if the top is obscured by cloud or if weather conditions are deteriorating.
It also verifies what I thought the minute I walked up to the base: this is the grueling part.
If you look real close at the above picture, you can see those are people making their way up the rock gully!
As we began our climb, we quickly realized the rocks come in all shapes and sizes, making it easy to lose our footing and slip back a few feet.
Trekking poles aren’t essential, but they can be especially helpful on the descent.
This is where those hiking boots I recommend above would come in handy. While I typically find trail runners sufficient for most hikes, I couldn’t help but hope I wouldn’t twist an ankle on the way up.
Luckily, we reached the summit without any major problems—aside from our legs feeling like jelly! I was so happy to have finally reached the peak – it felt like such a huge accomplishment. I couldn’t wait to sit down and enjoy the views.
But hold on… Wait, what? Don’t let disappointment set in when you realize the summit is just an endless stretch of more rocks!
If you can muster it, wait to find a comfortable spot to relax just a little longer. If you walk a little further and head toward the edge of the plateau, you’re in for a treat.
You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of North America’s largest fjords. It will truly take your breath away!
After a well-earned lunch break and what felt like a thousand photos, we figured it was time to get moving again.
The descent was especially enjoyable, with more boardwalks and stairways offering stunning views of the Long Range Mountains.
The return route turned out to be unexpectedly scenic! It was still tough going, but it made it a lot easier to keep going with the picturesque landscape.
We kept wondering what new view was going to come next.
If you’re trying to figure out how many hours it will take you, I’d guess anywhere between seven and nine hours, depending on your skill level and how many breaks you take.
We completed the hike in roughly nine hours. Gros Morne Mountain demands effort, but the rewards are undeniable.
Ultimately, it’s not just about reaching the top, but about the strength gained and the memories made along the way!
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