Canada Road Trip 2023

They were once two trails.

Not so very far from each other. In fact, just across the road but separated by about 4 kilometres. Gros Morne is is a national park, and we have come to expect a certain level of trail standard. So how different could these valley twins be?

The first trail was well marked and flat as it traversed across the Tablelands, a Mars-like land of red with rocks over 500 million years old. Like a desert, not much appears to grow on this inhospitable, rocky terrain table until you get up close, and then, at least in early July, there are wildflowers and waterfalls and wizened, low juniper bushes. An easy stroll for the most part. Defined track, obvious trailhead and end.

Down the road, at first blush the other track had a number of things going for it. The slope had trees to shade us from the hot sun, the challenge of elevation gain, and the promise of some seaside views. Unfortunately, we went to the wrong trailhead, and we’re advised by one of the few people in the parking lot that the trail was closed at the suspension bridge. We thought what the heck we can go that far.

The trail closure date was signed as 2019. So we thought we can soldier on. However, Parks Canada has essentially given up on this trail and nature has begun to reclaim it. Once pristine boardwalks are now broken and tilted.

Trees and shrubs encroach upon and obscure the trail. Having thrown caution to the wind, we reeled it back in after 45 minutes of bushwhacking and some not so silent regrets.

Driving down the road to our campsite, alongside the road, we saw the trail head of the actual hike that the Visitor Centre had recommended. Feeling sheepish, we resolved to hike the real trail tomorrow.Read more