After a night of pubbing with what seemed like half of Newfoundland, we were on the move early to check out and enjoy some of what was shaping up as a beautiful day outdoors. Firstly, we scooped up a coffee and muffin at the Treasure Box… Quirky little coffee stop that gave us a little caffeine rush. Then into Gros Morne in search of trails and sites to visit.
Firstly, we stopped at Coastal Trail, a novice seaside hiking trail that looks out over the Gulf of St Lawrence. We parked and enjoyed a half hour saunter along Baker’s Brook and the edge of the saltwater. As an aside, on our previous trip with the kids we hiked Baker’s Brook Falls, giving us both the start and the end to this water flow. Lots of folks, young and old, stretching their legs and making good use of some very nice weather. It was a lot like trails from home that we’ve enjoyed, so we doubled back fairly quickly.
We also visited Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse just west of Rocky Harbour. This site hosts trails and a lighthouse, with interpreters doing tours about the grounds. We sauntered about, checking out some of the interpretive signage and looking at the vegetation and scenic views of Rocky Harbour. A very relaxed stop. With that, and another brief coffee stop, we left Rocky Harbour, stopping on the way out of the park for a shoreline picnic just before leaving Gros Morne. Great to see this park again!
It was time to pick our way back to Corner Brook and get Janie registered for her conference. Hosted at the Grenfell Campus, we had booked an area with private washrooms and kitchen facilities. After a couple of stops, we secured keys and made peace with our surroundings. A quick trip to the local grocer, Coleman’s, for “eats” and “refreshments”, at the NLC Store next door , were completed and we set up for the stay! The apartments were warm, but electric fans, a solid shower and decent cable kept things in check. The evening was quiet and we settled after the first part of our journey in the books!