Eastern Point Trail

Sometimes there is a place that really defies description. Even the dozens of photographs I took cannot properly express the wild beauty of the Eastern Point Trail in Trout River, Newfoundland. It isn't technically in Gros Morne. When Gros Morne National Park was established in 1970, there were several fishing villages that had been there for generations. So communities like Trout River and Woody Point, where I am staying, are geographically within the boundaries of the park, but are not part of the park. 

The trail begins with a lot of stairs (I didn't count them) which bring you to the top of the cliffs. From there, it is an easy hike through tuckamore (I will talk about this next time) and windswept expanses. The path hugs the edge of the cliff and the surf pounds with energetic abandon below.

There is something humbling and soul-filling to be out in a wild place all alone. This kind of experience is new to me. I have always feared heading out into unknown spaces alone--especially in the wilderness. But here, I do not feel fear--only wonder and expansiveness, if that makes sense. 

Because I had a hard time deciding which photos to put up to show you, I decided to make a short video instead. You can find the video here. 

When I reached the end of the trail (it is not a loop, but an out-and-back trail), there was a large, grassy area. I sat down to contemplate my place in all of this. I certainly felt connected with all of the life and processes around me. As usual, the joy and wonder I felt was edged with sadness and fear about the future. As soon as my mind drifted to environmental issues and loss, a light mist floated over the water right in front of me and a rainbow appeared. It was a full rainbow and it stretched from my left to my right. It only shimmered there for a few seconds as if to say, "Everything will be all right."