Long Range Traverse

The Long Range Traverse follows a wild cross-country route through the high plateau and fjord country of western Newfoundland. It begins above the deep blue waters of Western Brook Pond and crosses tundra, barrens and bogs framed by cliffs that fall a thousand metres to the sea. There is no marked trail – only rolling ground, moose paths and the sound of water in the wind. Each day moves through open horizons and sudden views where the land seems to fold into sky.

• Overlooking Western Brook Pond fjord from the plateau rim
• Complete off-trail navigation through wild terrain
• Encounters with caribou and moose in open tundra
• Camps beside remote lakes and streams
• Silence, isolation and vast Atlantic light

The Long Range Traverse captures the feeling of old wilderness – raw, unmarked and humbling. It demands focus, patience and comfort with uncertainty. Every ridge and valley looks similar, yet each holds its own rhythm of wind, water and light. Standing above the fjord after days of route finding feels like seeing the edge of the world – an experience that belongs entirely to the wild.

Start: Western Brook Pond – reached by boat shuttle from Route 430 (parking area about 30 km north of Rocky Harbour)
Finish: Ferry Gulch Trailhead near Gros Morne Mountain, accessible by road from Rocky Harbour
Nearest towns: Rocky Harbour, Norris Point, Deer Lake
Nearest airport: Deer Lake (YDF)

All hikers must register with Parks Canada and complete a mandatory backcountry orientation in Rocky Harbour. The route is strictly limited by daily quotas and must be booked months in advance. Navigation skills and GPS are essential – there is no trail and cairns appear only near the end.

Expect rough, wet ground – tundra grass, bog, slick rock and stream crossings. The route follows natural corridors between lakes and ridges, climbing gradually from sea level to the open plateau around 600 – 700 m (1 970 – 2 300 ft). Fog can reduce visibility to a few metres, and winds often exceed 50 km/h. The landscape alternates between open tundra, scattered spruce and steep fjord edges. Movement is slow; distance means less than endurance.

Streams and lakes provide abundant water, though always filter or boil. There are no resupply points – carry all food for the duration. Bear canisters are not required, but all food must be stored securely to deter foxes and small animals.

Designated backcountry campsites with tent pads, bear poles and pit toilets exist at key points along the route (Little Island Pond, Hardings Pond, Green Island Pond, Ferry Gulch). Reservations correspond to these sites. Ground is often uneven or damp – a solid sleeping pad and weatherproof tent are essential. Nights are cold and windy even in summer.

The route rises and falls constantly across the Long Range plateau, with a cumulative elevation gain of roughly 1 700 – 2 000 m (5 580 – 6 560 ft). The highest point lies around 750 m (2 460 ft), where the tundra opens into wide rolling ground above the fjord. Many hikers finish with the ascent of Gros Morne Mountain at 806 m (2 644 ft), adding one last climb before descending to Ferry Gulch. The effort feels greater than the numbers suggest, with endless undulating terrain and wet ground that slows every step.

A backcountry permit and orientation session from Parks Canada are mandatory. Hiking without registration is prohibited. Group size limited to four. Camp only at designated sites. GPS and map are required and hikers must sign out upon return.

Best time is mid-July to early September, when snow has melted and the ground is firmest. June brings lingering snow and flooded bogs; late September can bring frost and early storms. Expect strong wind, fog and rain at any time. Daylight lasts long, but conditions shift quickly.

Full waterproof setup is mandatory – rain gear, pack cover and dry storage for all clothing. A reliable GPS with spare power, compass and map are essential for safe navigation. Footwear should handle mud, water and rock. Gaiters and trekking poles help with bogs and stream crossings. Carry extra food and patience – distances on the map mean little in this terrain.

Difficulty 5 / 5 – very hard. The traverse is physically and mentally demanding due to exposure, wet ground and lack of trail. Navigation errors are easy, and rescue is by helicopter only. Conditions change rapidly and communication is limited to satellite devices. It’s a route for skilled backcountry travelers who value solitude above comfort.