Details
Length: 33km (20mi)
Maximum Elevation: 812m (2664ft)
Trailhead Elevation/Location: 360m (1,181ft) at N48.76642 W58.41298 in the south / 80m (262ft) at N48.87819 W58.32109 in the north
Time: 2 Days / 1 Night in Tent (Possibly 3 days / 2 nights if taking western route via Buds Pond)
Trail Type: Cut Trail at each end (.5km in south, 2km in north) and barren unmarked Wilderness Route between.
Difficulty: Challenging*
Condition: The cut trail sections at each end of this route are in reasonably good shape but are due for some minor maintenance. The high mountain barrens are primarily dry, with no wetland sections.
Experience: This is primarily an unmarked wilderness route across barren mountaintop terrain. Experience with backcountry navigation and wilderness camping is a must, and use of a gps (ideally with trail route track) is highly recommended.
Highlights: Cascades, Cabox, Molly Ann Gulch, Rope Cove Canyon, Red Rocky Gulch & possible caribou sightings
Cell Service: On eastern edge of the mountains and some of the highest summits.
Water Sources: All substantial streams and lakes contain potable water. Small slow-moving brooks and bog ponds should be avoided if possible.
Transportation: Transportation between trailheads can be provided by Gros Morne Transportation at 709-458-7296 (https://www.facebook.com/grosmornetransportation).
Camping: The entire route spans backcountry wilderness and contains no designated campsites. However hikers may set up camp wherever they like, as long as they abide by dry weather fire restrictions and leave no trace.
Hunting Season: As the trail route crosses big game hunting areas, including those allocated to hunting outfitters, caution is recommended beginning in late August (for bow) and early September (for rifle). (Exact starting dates vary from year to year.) Hikers should wear a bright color and keep a safe distance from hunters and big game.
Dog Rating: Extreme and Not Recommended
* Easy > Moderate > Challenging > Difficult
Directions
The southern trailhead (N48.76642 W58.41298) is located near the end of Cold Brook Logging Road approximately 29km (17.4mi) from the intersection of Cold Brook Road with Route 460 near the town of Stephenville. (See gpx track below.)
The northern trailhead (N48.87819 W58.32109) is located off Logger School – Serpentine logging roads, approximately 34.3km (20.6mi) from the intersection with the Trans Canada Highway (TCH), which is approximately 11km (6.5mi) west of the city of Corner Brook and 5kms (3mi) east of Pinchgut Lake. (See gpx track below.)