A UNESCO World Heritage fjord landscape on the Atlantic — Norway in Canada.
Gros Morne National Park on Newfoundland's west coast holds landlocked fjords, the Tablelands (a rare exposed mantle rock), and seacliffs out of a Norse epic. It's hard to get to — Atlantic ferry from Nova Scotia — and worth it.
Why it's special
Landscapes that exist almost nowhere else, with the friendliest small communities you'll ever drop into.
Best time to go
Late June through September.
Getting there
Ferry from North Sydney, NS to Port aux Basques, NL, then 4 hours north on Highway 1 and 430.
Know before you go
- Ferry crossing is overnight and books out in summer.
- National park entrance fee.
- Camping is mostly in established Parks Canada sites; reserve ahead.
- Moose are everywhere; drive carefully.
Pro tips from boondockers
- Western Brook Pond fjord boat tour — book ahead, it's iconic.
- Tablelands hike is short and unforgettable.
- Rocky Harbour for the best chowder.
- Drive slow; this island runs on its own time.
Combine with
L'Anse aux Meadows (Viking site), St. John's (across the island).