Tablelands
A plateau of peridotite pushed up from the mantle, with bare yellow-brown hills and green valleys in sharp contrast; a living lesson in plate tectonics.
The Tablelands are peridotite rock masses pushed up from deep within the mantle about 450 million years ago, during a continental collision. The rock lacks nutrients plants need and contains heavy metals, so vast stretches are bare, earning it the nickname 'a place like Mars.' The Tablelands Trail beside Route 431 is about 4 km round trip with gentle terrain, and it leads to the foot of a glacial cirque. Along the way you'll see carnivorous pitcher plants. In summer, park wardens lead free guided hikes every day. It's about a 45-minute drive from Rocky Harbour. The mountain area is windy, so bring sun protection and warm layers.
Opening hours
Open all day (trail)
Nearby sights
- Woody Point
- Gros Morne Discovery Centre
- Lookout Trail (Woody Point)
- Bonne Bay
- Bonne Bay Marine Station
- Norris Point
- Green Gardens Trail
- Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse