Western Brook
Western Brook
- Boat Ramps
- 0
- Access Points
- 1
- Campsites
- 0
Western Brook Pond is a landlocked freshwater fjord located within Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the west coast of Newfoundland. The pond stretches approximately 16 kilometres in length and reaches a depth of 165 metres. It was carved by glaciers during the last ice age, between 25,000 and 10,000 years ago, and is now completely cut off from the sea. The water is classified as ultraoligotrophic, meaning it is exceptionally pure and nutrient-poor.
The fjord's western end is bordered by flat, low-lying land, but the landscape transforms dramatically as the gorge narrows, where sheer cliff walls rise to heights exceeding 600 metres (over 2,000 feet). Pissing Mare Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in eastern North America at approximately 1,150 feet, cascades into the pond from the cliff tops. The pond is home to Atlantic Salmon, Brook Trout, and Arctic Char, and hosts an unusual colony of cliff-nesting gulls.
Access to the pond requires a 3-kilometre walk (approximately 45 minutes) over marshland from the parking lot on Route 430, located about 27 kilometres north of Rocky Harbour. A dock and boat launch are located at the end of this trail, along with a sheltered waiting area, indoor bathroom facilities, a canteen, and picnic areas.
Paddling on Western Brook Pond is strongly discouraged by Parks Canada and is not recommended. The reasons cited include the lack of nearby emergency response capability, unpredictable and rapidly changing weather conditions, the risk of rockslides, and the absence of landing spots along significant stretches of the gorge. Because of the pond's ultraoligotrophic classification, Bon Tours is the only operator permitted to use motorized vessels on the water. The route to Snug Harbour is open for hiking, with primitive campsite reservations available in advance.
Atmospheric conditions can shift unexpectedly along the length of the fjord, and the confined gorge can generate high winds and waves. Paddlers considering this water body should be aware that Parks Canada actively discourages independent paddling here, and those seeking paddling within Gros Morne National Park are directed to Trout River Pond and Bonne Bay, where launch areas are available at Trout River Pond, Mill Brook, and Lomond day-use areas.
Water access, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Western Brook. Uncover great paddling access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. PaddleWays's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
Paddle smarter with real-time insights
Whether you're en route and conditions shift or you're looking for the best spot based on current flows, we enable you to make informed decisions on the fly.





Nl licenses and regulations
No licenses or regulations available for Nl.
Find Places to Paddle
Over 400,000 Places to Paddle
Every user gets free access to launch points, boat ramps, and public property parcels.
Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
See the best times to paddle Western Brook and check the forecast before you go.
No forecast data available.
Paddling near Western Brook
Explore Nl waters
Top paddling waters
No waters available right now.
Popular Cities
Loading popular cities...
Explore near Western Brook
Smarter Paddling Starts in the App.
Paddleways gives you everything you need to plan smarter, paddle better, and own every trip from first launch to takeout.
















