Top 5 Natural Monuments in the Long Range Mountains

The Long Range Mountains, particularly within Gros Morne National Park, are unique for showcasing visible examples of plate tectonics, where deep ocean crust and Earth's mantle rocks are exposed. This creates dramatic landscapes, from coastal fjords and highland plateaus to boreal forests, offering a blend of geological wonders and rich biodiversity.

The Tablelands Trail offers a unique opportunity to walk on the Earth's mantle. This barren, orange-brown landscape within Gros Morne National Park is composed of peridotite rock, providing an unparalleled insight into geological processes.

Yes, for experienced hikers, the Gros Morne Mountain Trail is a challenging 17-kilometer loop trek. It leads to the Arctic-alpine plateau at the summit of Gros Morne Mountain, offering panoramic views of the national park from its highest point. Another challenging option is the Tablelands Off-Trail Hike, which involves navigating boulders and gravel for a surreal experience.

You can visit Bakers Brook Falls, an incredibly big waterfall, especially after a period of rain. There are two viewpoints to experience its scale. Additionally, Western Brook Pond, a freshwater fjord, features numerous cascading waterfalls, including the impressive Pissing Mare Falls.

Gros Morne National Park, encompassing many of these natural monuments, supports a variety of wildlife. You might spot moose, woodland caribou, and black bears in the forests and bogs. Marine mammals like whales and seals can be seen along the coast. On higher ground, such as the Gros Morne Mountain summit, keep an eye out for Arctic hares and rock ptarmigan.

Yes, the Tablelands Trail is an accessible option for families, offering an easy walk through a unique geological landscape. For more easy hiking options, you can explore routes like the South Brook Trail, which are generally suitable for various fitness levels. Find more easy hikes in the region on the Easy hikes in the Long Range Mountains guide.

The summit of Gros Morne Mountain offers sensational panoramic views of the entire national park. The Green Gardens Cliffs and Beach also provide great views of the rugged coastline and rock formations. Additionally, the Tablelands offer a unique visual contrast with their barren, orange-brown landscape against the surrounding green mountains.

Yes, the Green Gardens Cliffs and Beach is a notable coastal natural monument. Once you reach the beach, you'll discover a large rock formation containing a smaller sea cave, alongside stunning cliff views.

Beyond exploring the natural monuments themselves, the Long Range Mountains offer a variety of outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, ranging from easy to difficult, as detailed in the Hiking in the Long Range Mountains guide. Cycling routes are also available, with options like the Raspberry Bush loops, which you can explore further in the Cycling in the Long Range Mountains guide.

The highest point on the island of Newfoundland is The Cabox, located in the Lewis Hills within the Long Range Mountains. It reaches an elevation of 812-814 meters and is significant for its exposed Paleozoic oceanic lithosphere and upper mantle rocks, reflecting a rich geological history.

Visitors frequently praise the breathtaking views, especially from challenging ascents like Gros Morne Mountain. The unique geological formations, such as the Tablelands, offer a surreal and educational experience. The sheer scale of waterfalls like Bakers Brook Falls and the dramatic glacier-carved landscapes of places like Western Brook Pond are also highly appreciated for their natural beauty.