Gros Morne

Thursday 7/31

River of Ponds turned out to be very peaceful. I slept well and took long enough packing up that I could pack up a mostly dry tent. Heading south I passed a few of the places that we have eaten in the past. I pressed on to reach the Irving in Rocky Harbor. Where I refueled, did chain mentenance, and topped off my clutch resevoir.

The next stop was an ATM to pull out more cash. The bank was across the street from the laundry. On prior trips I had loved this laundry and breakfast stop next door, so I stopped for both.

Prior to seeing the laundry, I had planned to head to Norris Point for brunch. It was a part of Rocky Harbor that I had never explored. This turned out to have some spectacular views of the steep mountains against the deep inlets. And they all all the major food groups: baked goods, hand crafted sandwiches and ice cream. My lunch at the Old Country Store Cafe was wonderfull, and offered wifi.

After my second meal in Norris Point I headed to the Gros Morne campground called Berry Hill. And was once again turned away to Shallow Bay because Berry Hill was already full. I didn't want to go back to Shallow Bay again, so I asked what else do you have to the South? They had one cabin in Trout River. Sold for $99 CA.

In 2022 we saw the Tablelands but turned back from Trout River because it was fogged in and raining. I used the Tablelands picture for my website's front page in 2023 because it show a long road that turned a corner into stormy weather. Time heals all. This time I enjoyed perfect weather, and my future is also much more illuminated. Having been retired for two years, I no longer suffer from the fog of war. Now I'm very happy with the map of my future.

Just past the Tablelands is the little town of Trout River. You pass through it to return into the Gros Morne park and their campground. Cabin 40 is pretty nice. It comes with: a grill, lights, a USB charging port, table, four chairs, full bed, sofa, and a rolling service tray. Outside it has a porch, private sitting area with fire pit and view of the Tablelands. It's also accross the streat from the bathrooms, showers and food prep area. On top of that it has great cell service! Pretty nice for about $82 US, even if it's more than twice what I've spent on my highest night.

In talks with locals today I learned: How to carry a fishing rod on a sportbike (see photo). That Canadian's are doing more travel in Canada this year. There are new government perks that I could take advantage of. First the Newfoundland ferry from Nova Scotia gets a 50% rate cut, starting tomorrow. And the parks canada pass is free this year. So I think if I say I want a parks Canada pass, I may get to camp for free in their parks. On a less interesting note, the Prince Edward Island (PEI) bridge cost only $20 CA to leave, down from $70. Maybe it's worth another trip through PEI, to see if I can find something worth going for. With discount, it doesn't even have to be that good a reason.