Gros Morne supports a rich variety of wildlife, including one of Newfoundland's largest moose populations, woodland caribou, black bears, red foxes, and Arctic hares. The park is also home to the endangered Newfoundland pine marten. Bird life is abundant, with over 240 species recorded, including significant populations of bald eagles, osprey, and various seabirds like northern gannets and Atlantic puffins. Marine life in the park's waters includes whales (minke, humpback, and fin whales), seals, and diverse fish species.
The park hosts diverse vegetation zones including coastal lowlands, boreal forest, and alpine highlands. The boreal forest is dominated by balsam fir, black spruce, and white birch, while the alpine regions feature hardy tundra species like arctic willow and moss campion. The Tablelands' unusual serpentine soil supports rare plants adapted to these harsh conditions, including several species found nowhere else in the world. Coastal areas feature salt-tolerant plants, while bogs and fens throughout the park harbor specialized vegetation including carnivorous plants like pitcher plants and sundews.
Gros Morne's geology represents one of the world's best examples of plate tectonics, showcasing rare exposed mantle and crust of the Earth. The Tablelands, a barren plateau of ultramafic rock forced up from the Earth's mantle during a continental collision hundreds of millions of years ago, is the park's most distinctive geological feature. The Long Range Mountains, part of the Appalachian chain, and the Western Brook Pond fjord, carved by glaciers during the last ice age, demonstrate dramatic examples of glacial erosion. The park's unique geology played a crucial role in advancing our understanding of plate tectonics theory.
The park area has a rich human history dating back over 4,500 years, beginning with Indigenous peoples including the Maritime Archaic Indians and later the Dorset Paleoeskimos. European settlers arrived in the 18th century, establishing fishing communities along the coast. The park was established in 1973 and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987 due to its exceptional geological significance and natural beauty. The name 'Gros Morne' comes from the French meaning 'large mountain standing alone,' referring to the park's second-highest peak at 806 meters.
Key attractions include the Western Brook Pond Fjord, featuring spectacular 2,000-foot cliffs and numerous waterfalls; the Tablelands, an otherworldly landscape of orange-brown rock; and Gros Morne Mountain, offering challenging hiking and panoramic views. The park also features the Green Gardens Trail with its volcanic coastline, the historic fishing community of Bonne Bay, and the Discovery Centre with interactive exhibits about the park's geology and ecology. The Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse provides historical insight and coastal views, while numerous hiking trails ranging from easy boardwalks to challenging backcountry routes offer diverse exploration opportunities.
Gros Morne National Park experiences a maritime climate characterized by unpredictable and rapidly changing weather conditions. Summers are mild with average temperatures between 16-20°C (61-68°F), while winters are cold with frequent snowfall and temperatures ranging from -3 to -8°C (27-18°F). The park receives significant precipitation throughout the year, with annual rainfall averaging 1,300mm. Fog is common, particularly along the coast, and strong winds can occur year-round. Visitors should be prepared for sudden weather changes and pack appropriate clothing for all conditions, even during summer months.
Canada
49.6920°, -57.7360°
1973
1805
Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring dramatic fjords and mountains. The park showcases unique geological features including the Tablelands, which helped prove the theory of plate tectonics. Its diverse landscape includes coastal lowlands, alpine highlands, and boreal forests.