Gros Morne National Park
photo from Canadian Geological Survey

This magnificent park is located on the east coast of the island, north of the city of Cornerbrook.

It is noted for its dramatic fjords, wildflower meadows, and historic sites.

 Newfoundland

St. John's, capital city of the island province of Newfoundland, and Canada's oldest city, is the eastern starting point of the Trans-Canada Highway.

The road croses the Avalon Peninsula, heading west, and then leads northwest to the town of Gander, and then passes Bishop's Falls, Grand Falls, and Springdale.

At Deer Lake, Route 430 leads a few miles north to reach Gros Morne National Park. The Trans-Canada then leads south, to Corner Brook, and the ferry landing at Port Aux Basques.

Corner Brook, Newfoundland's second largest city, is 444 miles (714 km) from St. John's. To reach the ferry to Nova Scotia, drive another 133 miles (214 km).

Many provincial parks, with campgrounds, are located along the route.

While the Trans-Canada offers great scenery and natural attractions, driving a few miles off the highway provides glimpses of many small fishing villages that echo life in Newfoundland of more than a hundred years ago. Brigus, Harbour Grace, Come By Chance, and Musgravetown, are just a few mintes from the Trans-Canada.

In the middle part of the trip, the highway crosses the island's interior, wih many small lakes (called ponds), rocky outcroppings, and unique ecosystems. The Long Range Muntains come into view as you approach Deer Lake, the gateway to Gros Morne.

If you have a few days to spare, leave the highway at Goobies, and take Route 210 south to Fortune, and catch a ferry to the French Islands of St. Pierre and Miquelon. This is the last French colony in North America, and a fascinating world apart.