Trout River Pond Trail: When "Small" Ponds Aren't So Small
- Kim Martinez
- Jun 21
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 29
Trail Details:
Distance: 8 miles round trip (we completed 6+ miles)
Trailhead: Accessible from Trout River Campground, southern end of Gros Morne National Park
Difficulty: Moderate with rolling terrain
The Deceptive "Pond"
Manny and I decided on a hike that promised greenery and water—the Trout River Small and Big Pond Trail right outside the town of Trout River. Here's what we learned: "pond" is a very deceptive word in Newfoundland!
After hiking for more than two miles, we still hadn't reached the end of "Small Pond." These Newfoundland "ponds" are absolutely massive! We pushed on for another mile because I was determined to reach "the narrows" that separates Big Pond from Small Pond. But after 3 miles in, we weren't close enough, and I reluctantly had to turn around. Next time, we're planning a full day!
The Trail Experience
This hike was fascinating and full of variety. We started through fairly dense forest near the edge of Small Trout Pond, constantly drawn to wander down small side paths to walk along the pond's rocky shoreline. When the terrain got too steep, we'd head back up to the main trail and continue our pattern of exploration.
The payoff came around mile 2 when the forest opened up to reveal the wide-open expanse of the Tableland mountains. The views were vast, open, and absolutely beautiful—that classic Gros Morne landscape that takes your breath away.
Wildlife Surprise!
Not long after we decided to turn around, we heard a huge SPLASH—way too loud to be a fish! Through the trees, we spotted the pond and saw a big head bobbing in the water. It was a beaver! We watched him swimming around near the shore for several minutes, a perfect Newfoundland wildlife encounter.
Trail Summary
Terrain: Rolling ups and downs, not overly difficult but steady
Distance Reality Check: 8 miles is ambitious! We logged just over 6 miles
Highlights: Dense forest, pond shoreline exploration, Tableland views, beaver spotting
Recommendation: Plan a full day if you want to reach the narrows between ponds
Verdict:
A rewarding hike with diverse scenery and wildlife. The "small" pond lived up to its deceptive Newfoundland reputation—definitely earned a spot on our "return visit" list!Next Adventure: More Gros Morne trails await!
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