Festival schedule
A Week of Hiking and Adventure Awaits at the Gros Morne Hiking Festival
Our team of hardworking festival coordinators and volunteers have been busy organizing awesome day hikes, fun evening activities, culinary events and special presentations. This our tentative schedule as of right now so you can get registered and start planning. However stay tuned, as we are still working on some final festival details.
September 8th
Opening Ceremonies / Meet & Greet
Join us in the boathouse for the festivals opening night meet & greet. Festival participants are highly encouraged to attend this event as your festival coordinators will go over the the weeks events, hikes and trail conditions and equipment lists. Hiking guides will be on hand to answer any questions about Gros Morne and will have a short presentation about what to expect. This is a casual event with guests free to bring their own refreshments however light appetizers will be served throughout the evening.
Indigenous Fire Circle – Our hiking festival opens with an indigenous fire circle ceremony where we give thanks, offerings and well wishes for our incredible week of hiking in Gros Morne National Park
Time & Details – Our hiking festival opening ceremonies are taking place 6pm at the Waters Edge boathouse located at 232 Tablelands Drive.
Cost – $25 per person or included as part of your week long hiking festival package
September 9th
Hike - Gros Morne Mountain
Gros Morne Base Trail | 4kms | Intermediate – For those seeking a more leisurely and accessible hiking experience, the Gros Morne Base Trail is an excellent choice. This trail follows a gentle path along the base of the mountain, offering hikers the chance to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna up close. The route culminates at the base of the mountain where you can immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the surrounding landscapes
Gros Morne Mountain | 19kms | Advanced – Gros Morne Mountain, standing at an impressive 806 meters (2,644 feet) above sea level, offers hikers an exhilarating and challenging ascent, providing stunning panoramic views of the surrounding fjords, cliffs, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The hike is not for the faint of heart, but the sense of accomplishment and the awe-inspiring vistas from the summit make it well worth the effort
Time & Location – Both hikes start concurrently at 8:00am from the Gros Morne Mountain parking area
Cost – $50.00 per person or included as part of your week long hiking pass
Evening Activity - Live at the Lighthouse W/ music & BBQ
Time & Details – Our Live at the Lighthouse is an all inclusive event and starts at approximately 6:30pm. Included will be a selection of your favourite BBQ classics, make your own pizza bar, side salads and non alcoholic beverages. Guests are free to bring their own refreshments and enjoy the live music.
Cost – $30.00 per person or included as part of your week long hiking package
September 10th
Hike - Lomond Sinkhole | Rocky Ridge
Lomond Sinkhole | 4kms | Intermediate – We’ll embark on a 4×4 off-road adventure into the remote backcountry of Gros Morne National Park to uncover the hidden Lomond Sinkhole. After a short hike the forest canopy opens up to reveal a massive cave nestled amidst towering trees. Descend into its depths and marvel at the sheer size and natural beauty of this geological wonder. The journey to the Lomond Sinkhole is always fan favourite and is the first leg of our Rocky Ridge day hike.
Rocky Ridge | 10kms | Intermediate – Rocky Ridge Route is a 10km backcountry traverse across arctic alpine meadows, culminating in a stunning lookout point. A hidden gem not found in guidebooks but cherished by locals for its unique views and abundant wildlife sightings. Be prepared for varying trail conditions, from wet patches to rocky terrain, depending on the weather. Immerse yourself in an unparalleled adventure, discovering the secrets of Gros Morne’s wilderness.
Time & Details – Groups will leave concurrently at 9:00am from the Water’s Edge Lighthouse
Cost – $50.00 per person or included as part of your week long hiking pass
Evening Activity - Star Gazer Night Hike
Time & Details – Join us for a special presentation night hikes: Explore the trails under the stars with a guided night hike. Discovering the magic of the wilderness after dark and gaze up at the twinkling night sky, identifying constellations and shooting stars.
Cost – $20.00 per person or included as part of your week long hiking pass
September 11th
Hike - The Tablelands
Tablelands Off Trail | 8km | Intermediate- Reach for the top and let’s explore this bizarre and striking landscape of the Tablelands in Gros Morne National Park. Our Tablelands off trail hike guides you through rusty, barren terrain until we reach the 600 meter summit with unobstructed views of The Bonne Bay fjords, Gros Morne Mountain and the lush greenery of the surrounding hills. Prepare for challenging rock and steep trail conditions as you reach for the top of this iconic landmark
Tablelands Full Loop | 15km | Advanced- The Tablelands Full Loop is a challenging and rewarding trek through one of the most unique terrains in eastern North America. Barren backcountry meadows, sheer cliffs and stunted rare vegetation. This full-day hike spans approximately 15 kms of rough, rocky terrain, offering a thrilling adventure for advanced hikers. Be prepared for an 8 hour expedition
Time & Details – Both hikes start concurrently and leave 8:00am from the Tablelands parking area
Cost – $50.00 per person or included as part of your week long hiking pass
Evening Activity - Private Hikers Dinner at The Old Loft
Time & Details – Join us at the famous Old Loft restaurant in Woody Point as we dine on a custom selection of traditional Newfoundland foods prepared just for our hiking festival participants
Cost – $40.00 per person or included as part of your week long hiking pass
September 12th
Hike - The Lookout
Small Lookout | 6km | Intermediate – The Lookout (shorter cousin to the Big Lookout) is a 6km intermediate trail offering breathtaking panoramic vistas. Ascend steadily through lush forest before emerging onto a highland plateau. From the summit of Partridgeberry Hill, soak in the awe-inspiring views of Bonne Bay, Gros Morne Mountain, the Tablelands, and the Lookout Hills. Moderate rock, steep trail conditions and a vintage boardwalk add to the adventure.
Big Lookout | 16 kms | Advanced – Hidden in the remote backcountry, The Big Lookout. This 16km trail begins with a steep incline, leading to remote mountain meadows. Ascend a strange rocky outcropping to be rewarded with panoramic views overlooking Bonne Bay, the Long Range Mountains, and the iconic Tablelands. Be prepared for varying trail conditions, including sections over peat bogs that may be wet at times. Brace yourself for an unforgettable hiking experience in an arctic alpine environment.
Time & Details – Both hikes start concurrently and leave 8:00am from the Discovery Centre parking area
Cost – $50.00 per person or included as part of your week long hiking pass
Evening Activity - Bonfire
Time & Details – Join us on the shores of Bonne Bay for a rip roaring old fashioned Bonfire. We’ll light up the night sky and celebrate completing 2 of the Lookout Trails!! Guests are free to bring refreshments and food.
Cost – Free
September 13th
Adventure & Rest Day
Today we take a well needed rest day, where we break from the trails and take in some different adventures. You can choose between zodiac boat tours, sea kayaking and cod jigging or hey, check them all out if you wish. Or, for those folks looking to just rest up for tomorrows big day we have variety of self guided sightseeing activities available as well
Zodiac Boat Tour – Experience a thrilling ride along the coast of Bonne Bay with a Zodiac boat tour in Gros Morne !! You’ll have the opportunity to see some of Gros Morne National Park’s most iconic natural features up close. Our expert guides will take you to hidden coves, towering sea stacks, and breathtaking waterfalls, providing a unique and unforgettable perspective on this beautiful landscape.
Sea Kayaking – Explore remote beaches and the rugged coastal shallows of Bonne Bay with a Gros Morne sea kayak tour. We’ll paddle along some of our favourite nooks and crannies that make up the aquatic heart of Gros Morne National Park, kayaking through colourful underwater habitats with weird and wonderful creatures. Witness the seals sunbathing; the whales & porpoises playing and the eagles out scouting for there next feed of fish
Fishing Charter – Gros Morne cod jigging & fishing charters offer a unique opportunity to experience the thrill of fishing while experiencing the amazing scenery of Gros Morne National Park. Our experienced captains know the best fishing spots in the park, where you can reel in a variety of fish species including, codfish, mackerel, halibut & more. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, our guides will provide expert instruction and tips to help you catch the big one.
Time & Details – All adventures depart from the Water’s Edge Gros Morne and start at different times which will be discussed during sign up on opening night.
Cost – $50.00 per person per adventure or included as part of your week long hiking pass
Evening Activity - Free Time
Time & Details – No evening activity is planned for tonight as this is your chance to check out the local communities, shops and artist galleries or just relax and get ready for our big day tomorrow
September 14th
Hike - Green Gardens
Green Gardens | 10km | Intermediate – This intermediate-level hike unveils a picturesque coastline adorned with towering cliffs, dramatic sea stacks, and the lush greenery of Green Gardens. Traverse diverse landscapes, from serpentine barrens to enchanting forests, before descending to the idyllic shores of Old Man Cove. From here, continue your exploration northward along coastal headlands and meadows, or descend via stairs to uncover a secluded beach adorned with enchanting waterfalls and a captivating sea cave.
Green Gardens Forgotten Coast | 17 km | Advanced – Not for the faint of heart. The Green Gardens Full Loop is a challenging 17km former trail that was decommissioned and is now a wilderness route. Traverse forgotten coastlines, wind-blown forests, and remote river valleys. Unmaintained by Parks Canada, this is a muddy, rocky, and tough journey that’s nothing short of awesome. This Route is for advanced hikers only.
Time & Details – Both hikes start concurrently and leave 8:00am from the Green Gardens parking area
Cost – $50.00 per person for guided day hike or included as part of your week long hiking package
Evening Activity - Screech in & Closing Ceremonies
Time & Details – We’ll wrap up the Gros Morne Hiking Festival with a bang! Join us at the Merchant Warehouse in downtown Woody Point for our closing ceremonies. Dance to lively music, savor delicious food and refreshing drinks, and get ready for a good old fashioned screech in! It’s the perfect way to say our goodbyes, talk about our accomplishments and celebrate the end of an unforgettable hiking adventure in Gros Morne National Park!!
Cost – $20.00 per person or included as part of your week long hiking pass
September 15th
The Hungry Hikers Breakfast
The final event of the 2024 Gros Morne Hiking Festival – our Hungry Hikers Breakfast! After conquering nearly 100kms of rugged, awe-inspiring trails across Gros Morne’s finest landscapes, you’ve earned this feast! Indulge in free-range organic eggs from Adelaide’s chickens, fresh bacon, ham, and sausage, alongside toast, beans, fruit, and traditional Newfoundland toutons. It’s the perfect remedy for any lingering “excess” from last night’s closing ceremonies. But it’s more than just a meal – our Hungry Hikers Breakfast is a vital fundraiser for the Gros Morne Tourism Association, ensuring we can continue to host incredible community events like the hiking festival, provide essential training courses, and support our beloved local businesses. Join us for a morning of delicious food, camaraderie, and giving back to the community that makes Gros Morne so special!
Time & Details – The Hungry Hikers Breakfast starts at 8am and ends at 11:30am. Location TBD and will be updated soon
Cost – $25.00 per person for you’re full hikers breakfast with your choice of coffee, tea or juice.