Gros Morne National Park of Canada

Visitor Information

Weather

The weather in Newfoundland is always unpredictable and Gros Morne National Park is no exception! There are significant differences between weather conditions in low-lying areas along the coastal plain and the higher elevations of the Long Range Mountains. Be prepared for the worst. Hypothermia can easily occur on backcountry trips if you are not properly equipped.

Spring often arrives late in Newfoundland. Many of our hiking trails remain at least partially snow covered well into May, but visitors still have access to many areas and this is a great time for spotting moose. Trails at higher elevations may remain closed until July 1 due to snow and wet conditions.

Sunset, Lobster Cove Head ©Gros Morne National Park / George Case / 1193-095, k-324

July and August bring warmer and usually drier conditions. The average daytime temperature usually ranges between 16° C - 25° C, with a drop of at least 5 degrees during the night. Depending on the winds, temperatures can change quite suddenly. At high elevations, it can be 2° C to 4° C cooler and windier (10 degrees cooler with a wind-chill). The prevailing winds are from the southwest, and the Gulf of St. Lawrence adds moisture to the strong onshore winds. On average, there is some precipitation every two days during the summer months.

The weather during September and October can often be very pleasant. The slightly cooler temperature and the fall colours make for excellent hiking. However, be advised to expect snow at higher elevations by late September. Near the end of October, the weather becomes more unsettled and wetter as winter begins to set in.

Cross-country skiing ©Gros Morne National Park / Sheldon Stone, 2002 / 1193-095, k-324

Winter brings temperatures ranging from -10° C to 0° C with a 10° C drop of temperature on higher elevations. There is significant snowfall to the area, 400 to 450 cm on average with up to 1000 cm at higher elevations along the Long Range Mountains. January, February and March are usually great months for cross-country skiing. In years of high snowfall, snow conditions may permit backcountry skiing into late April and early May.

Check the current weather forecast for Gros Morne National Park.