New Brunswick – vantravelusa2

After an eventful trip through the US, I made it to Canada. I have always wanted to travel through the Canadian Maritime Provinces and now I am here. My travels will take me through 7 Canadian Provinces, 8 Canadian National Parks and a slew of Provincial Parks.

In New Brunswick (NB), I focused my time on three areas. These were the Promenade Du Sentier Fundy Trail Parkway, Fundy National Park, and Hopewell Rocks. The backdrop for all three areas is the Bay of Fundy.

On my way to the Fundy Trail Parkway, I stopped in the city of St. John for gas, groceries, and maps / information at the local visitor center. The city is known for Reversing Falls Rapid, a daily phenomenon created by the collision of the Bay of Fundy tide and the Saint John River. The east side of NB sits against the Bay of Fundy which is know for its tides which rise up to 13 vertical feet per hour and reach heights of up to 46 feet.

While heading to Promenade Du Sentier Fundy Trail Parkway, I saw signs that looked like a light house. As I am a “sucker” for lighthouses, I followed the signs. After driving quite a ways and seeing no lighthouse, I stopped at an arts and crafts store (May Moores Specialties). The store is adjoined to a bed and breakfast.

I talked with May for awhile (many good stories) and she informed me that the lighthouse looking signs indicate scenic drives. May is quite an artist. She walked me through her work on display. Sometimes you meet the most interesting people when just wander.

Fundy Trail Parkway

The Parkway is a 38 mile round trip drive with stunning views in every direction. It is part of two UNESCO designated areas (Stonehammer Global Geopark and the Fundy Biosphere Reserve). I would recommend spending a full day on the parkway and bringing a picnic lunch. There was a slight drizzle during my visit but I still really enjoyed the area.

While the route currently dead-ends, there is a plan to extend the road into Fundy National Park. This will save some driving time for those interested in both the Parkway and the National Park.

You can seek out pristine beaches, waterfalls, and cliffs with great views. The sites from the parkway are generally just a short walking distance, providing great rewards with minimal effort.

Some pictures:

The entrance to the parkway is just outside St. Martins. The Caves Restaurant has great seafood and is a convenient stop. From the restaurant, you can also walk out to the Sea Caves (during low tide).

Fundy National Park :

This Park has something for everyone – Mountain Biking, Road Riding, Golfing, Solar Heated Saltwater Pool, Fishing, Paddling, Hiking, and Beaches.

Four campgrounds are located in the park. In general, each campground centers on different experiences.

Wolfe Lake Campground – lake water activities
Chignecto Campground – mountain biking and hiking activities
Point Wolfe Campground- Beach (on Bay of Fundy) and coastal hiking activities
Headquarters Campground – Golf, Pool, Family activities

I camped for three days at Point Wolfe Campground. I spent my time hiking, hanging at the beach, mountain biking, road cycling, and sitting around the campfire.

Some pics from the park:

High Tide versus Low Tide –

Mountain Biking on Goose River Trail – So much fun, smile from ear to ear. The trail is on the cliffs overlooking the Bay.

Road Ride From Campground to Herring Cove Beach: The road crosses over a covered bridge with scenic views. The National Parks in Canada places two red Adirondack chairs in scenic areas for visitors to sit and enjoy.

Herring Cove Beach:

Dickson Falls: Stopped to hike the falls trail on my drive out.

The Hopewell Rocks:

The Hopewell Rocks are located on the Bay of Fundy and allow you to experience the world’s highest tides in a dramatic way. The Lovers Arch formation is a focus area. At high tides, people kayak at the top of the Arch. Then only hours later, you can walk under the Arch. Pretty amazing!