The Tablelands Trail is an easy hike that every visitor to Gros Morne should put on their list. This is a short, 4 km round trip hike with the option to continue along the off-loop trail for those interested in a more challenging trek.
This unique landscape is covered in red rock and minimal vegetation, but the coolest part of the area is that this rock is actually part of the Earth’s mantle layer. Originally, this layer was below the ocean, but during continental collide between Africa and North America, the Tablelands were pushed upwards and exposed to the surface. Because the rocks here are filled with toxic metals, there are very few plants that can grow along the surface.
This is such a unique area, and it is definitely worth the stop, whether you complete this short trail or take a longer route.
Tablelands Trail Summary
- Difficulty: Easy
- Distance: 4 km round trip
- Elevation: 88 metres
- Trail type: Out-and-back
- Time: 1-1.5 hours
- Trailhead: Tablelands Trailhead
To find the parking area follow Bonne Bay Road (highway 431) towards Woody Point. You’ll take a sharp left turn (if you are driving from Wiltondale), to stay on Bonne Bay Road at the intersection with highway 11 (Main Road). You’ll find the parking area about 4 km past the Gros Morne National Park Discovery Centre.
Tablelands Interpretive Trail Description
Our days in Gros Morne were very rainy. When we arrived at the trailhead for the Tablelands, the rain was falling heavily and there was a thick fog lying over the area. Luckily, the rain and wind calmed down shortly into our walk.
The trail begins directly from the parking lot and is well defined. Stay on the trail as it winds around the base of the mountain.
It was raining for a few hours before we arrived, so there were tiny streams running across the path that I assume are not normally there. Around halfway through the hike (give or take), we crossed a bridge and continued on the gravel trail for a little while longer.
Alongside the trail is interpretive signage that explains more about the unique geological features of the Tablelands. As you walk, glance to the left, across the highway, where the more typical, tree-covered landscape of Gros Morne stands in contrast to the Tablelands. It’s quite a shocking difference.
Once you reach the boardwalk, you’re nearly at the end of the trail. The boardwalk takes you to a viewpoint looking out into Winter House Brook Canyon. This is a glacially-carved canyon which still hosts a rushing creek. We took some photos at the end, but didn’t continue beyond the end of the interpretive trail as the rain and the fog were not super enticing.
On the hike back, just retrace your steps along the boardwalk to the gravel trail that will take you back to the parking lot.
