I’m currently in a car headed west-bound to Gros Morne National Park, where the tablelands and coastal views make the area my province’s most esteemed travel destination. There’s all kinds of geological goodness going on there, like “oceanic crust and mantle rock exposed by the obduction process of plate tectonics” (as explained by Wikipedia and my geologically-inclined cousin, Renee).

Wanna hear something crazy? I lived on the west coast in the community of Corner Brook for two years…and I never visited the park. I was much too busy boozing away my college years.

Clearly, a lot has changed.

We’re armed with two pounds of gummy bears, The Lion King soundtrack, and hiking boots. Earlier we passed a sign for the community of Dildo titled, “Dildo Trading Post.” We’re off to a good start.

I have two hikes planned, including Green Gardens and the mountain. I may spend a night in Corner Brook revisiting my old haunts, and I may try ziplining for the first time ever. For now, I’m on moose watch. Stay tuned!

(Photo by natalielucier)