The secret’s out: New Brunswick is home to some of Atlantic Canada’s best hiking trails. All year around, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the province, featuring breathtaking views, stunning vistas, and some incredible wildlife. Whether the sun is shining or the ground is covered in snow, there are plenty of opportunities to take advantage of the beauty in your own backyard.
Irishtown Nature Park
One of the largest urban parks in Canada at 890 hectares, Irishtown Nature Park features plenty of nooks and crannies to explore, including many kilometres of surfaced trails and footpaths. A year-round feeding station attracts a wide array of birds, so get your binoculars and cameras ready. There are also lots of interpretive signs, so you may even learn a thing or two on your hike, like how the park includes Moncton’s first water supply. Moncton residents won’t have to venture too far for this one, as this gorgeous park is nestled in the northern edge of the city.
Hopewell Rocks Park
About an hour from Moncton by car, Hopewell Rock Park offers amazing views of the changing tides, great kayaking opportunities, and a short, easy trail suitable for the whole family. Also called the Flowerpot Rocks, or just the Rocks, the formations stand 40-70 feet, shaped by erosion over thousands of years. During low tide, take a walk on the ocean floor and snap some pictures of one of the Marine Wonders of the World, and most popular tourist destinations in New Brunswick.
Kouchibouguac National Park
This park on New Brunswick’s Acadian coast features many trails for all types of hikers. Spend an hour or two on a leisurely walk with the family, or hike the 11 kilometre trail along the Kouchibouguac River. Discover wetlands, freshwater ecosystems, salt marshes, peat bogs, and more. Equipment rentals are also available for those who’d rather explore by bike, kayak, paddle board, or peddle boat. The opportunities are endless!
Cape Enrage
This popular hiking destination offers beautiful panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy. The hike to Cape Enrage is about an hour, and suitable for the whole family. A 140-year-old lighthouse awaits you at the end of the trail, a perfect opportunity for a family photo or that perfect Instagram selfie. There are also activities for the more adventurous nature lovers: try the 600-foot zipline, the 150-foot rappel wall, or the 60-foot natural rock climbing wall. Once you’ve worn yourself out, sit down for a traditional meal at the Cape House Restaurant.
Mapleton Park
Located in Moncton’s north end, Mapleton Park is a popular destination for anyone looking for a quick nature getaway. The park is the perfect all-season spot, with accessible trails, ice skating, snowshoeing, and a lodge for warming up. There are 10 trail options, so there’s no reason not to spend an afternoon exploring, the come back and do it all again.
For more vacation inspiration ideas, check out our blog 5 Road Trips to Take in Nova Scotia.
