Western Brook Pond Tour Guide: A Newfoundland Must-Do Experience

Experience the magic of Gros Morne National Park's most spectacular attraction

Western Brook Pond

If you're looking for an unforgettable adventure in Newfoundland, the Western Brook Pond Tour should be at the top of your list. This breathtaking boat tour through a landlocked freshwater fjord is one of the most stunning experiences we've ever had—and after doing it twice in three years, I can confidently say it never loses its magic. Don’t let the word “pond” fool you.  Western Brook pond is nearly 10 miles long and approximately 240 feet deep!

Tour Details & Booking Information

Operator: Bon Tours (the only company that runs this tour) 

Cost: Adults $89 | Children $54 

Schedule: Three tours daily (weather permitting) 

Duration: ~2 hours on the boat + a scenic 3km walk (each way) to the dock 

Getting There: A Scenic Prelude

Before boarding the boat, you'll take a pleasant 3km walk through coastal meadows and rugged terrain—a great warm-up for the views ahead. If walking isn't your thing, golf cart passes are available for an extra fee.

The Fjord: A Glacial Masterpiece

Western Brook Pond isn't just a lake—it's a fjord carved by glaciers during the last ice age. Though now separated from the sea, its dramatic U-shaped valley, sheer cliffs, and deep blue waters make it a geological wonder within Gros Morne National Park.

The Tour Experience: A Visual Overload (In the Best Way)

Once on the boat, the fjord slowly reveals itself as you glide across the water. The moment you pass through the narrow opening near the shore, the landscape explodes into a panorama of towering cliffs, waterfalls, and hanging valleys.

Every direction is a postcard:

- Sheer rock faces plunging straight into the water

- Waterfalls cascading down every crevice (some delicate, some roaring)

- Layered mountain ranges draped in greenery

- Glacial remnants sculpting the horizon

You'll find yourself constantly swiveling your head, trying to take it all in—and snapping photos like crazy. But here's the thing: No picture does it justice. The scale, the colors, the sheer grandeur... it's something you have to see for yourself.

Best Time to Go & Pro Tips

- Weather is key! Newfoundland's conditions change fast—check the forecast for sun, rain, and wind before booking. On our trips, the 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM tours had perfect weather, but it's always a bit of luck.

- Dress warmly! Even on a sunny day, the fjord is much colder on the water with a breeze that adds to the chill. A windproof jacket is a must.

- Boat logistics: The vessel has an enclosed lower section (with windows that open) and open upper deck. We moved around the whole time—upstairs for sweeping views, downstairs for warmth and close-up photos.

- Book ahead: This popular tour sells out quickly in peak season (June-September). Reserve your spots early to avoid disappointment!

Make It a Full Day of Adventure

The Western Brook Pond tour pairs perfectly with exploring Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site just minutes away. For hikers, some spectacular trails await:

- The Tablelands Trail (easy-moderate) takes you across otherworldly exposed earth mantle

-Trout River Pond Trail (easy-moderate) takes you around the small Trout River pond to large.

- Green Spot Coastal Trail: (moderate) offers coastal views and Tuckamore Trees.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the Western Brook Pond tour? 

The boat tour itself is 2 hours, plus a 3km walk each way to reach the dock (about 45 minutes each direction).

What should I wear on the Western Brook Pond tour? 

Dress in layers with a windproof jacket. Even sunny days get chilly on the water due to the fjord's microclimate.

When should I book the Western Brook Pond tour? 

Book as early as possible, especially for June-September visits. Tours sell out quickly during peak season.

Final Thoughts: A Bucket-List Experience

From the moment you start that scenic walk to the dock until the last breathtaking view fades behind you, this tour is pure Newfoundland magic. It's the kind of experience that stays with you—the reason we came back a second time, and why we'll likely return again.