New Brunswick Parks: Fundy National Park
After my semi-successful attempt at solo camping in Kouchibouguac National Park, I decided to travel a bit further from my hometown to visit the world-renowned Fundy National Park. With the Bay of Fundy known for having the highest tides in the world, this national park had no shortage of local and international visitors. However, this park is certainly worth the crowds and price of admission. I mean, once you enter, you almost don’t need to go any further to witness its beauty. Of course that would be a shame but you get the point.
As soon as you enter the park, you are met with breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy. At the entrance, you can find two rest stops: one that is straight across from the Bay and suitable for beach-goers and one that is just up the hill and suitable for picnic-goers and photographers. Up the hill, you’ll also find the visitor centre with gift shop, Headquarters and Cannontown Campgrounds, the Salt and Fir Centre, amphitheatre, salt water pool, and McLaren Pond.
If you continue past the visitor centre, you’ll head towards the northern part of the park where there are hiking trails, lookouts, water activities, campgrounds, and more. However, if you remain on the southern road, which requires that you take a left at the top of the hill, you’ll pass the golf course and many of the family-friendly hiking trails, which all have stunning views. This road also takes you to the beautiful wooden covered bridge that requires crossing to access Point Wolfe Campground. This is where I stayed for three nights.
Since I am still getting familiar with traveling alone, I decided to hike the small loop of Dickson Falls Trail (the large loop was closed) as well as the trails Shiphaven, Point Wolfe, and Caribou Plain. I also spent most evenings driving through the park to stop at all of the lookout points, which never ceased to amaze me. While I didn’t come across a lot of wildlife on my trip (with the exception of birds, squirrels, and chipmunks), the landscape views were priceless. I can’t wait to come back with a hiking buddy so that I can complete some of the more difficult and/or longer trails as I can only imagine the views I missed out on.
For the best chance at viewing wildlife, check out Fundy National Park’s Trail Guide here.
If you love beautiful landscapes, drive to Bennett Lake at sunset, hike Dickson Falls Trail during golden hour, and enjoy a picnic at one of the scenic lookouts along Point Wolfe Road.
For more information on parking, amenities and trails, you can view the Fundy National Park Map here.
Things to know before you go:
Daily Cost (Year-Round): Adult: $8.50; Senior: $7.25; Youth: Free; and Family/Group: $16.75
Washrooms: Available
Equipment Rentals: Available
Front-Country Camping: Available ($27.25 - $37.75 + tax per night; dependent on campground)
Backcountry Camping: Available
Roofed Accommodations: Available
Swimming: Available (pool and beaches)
Pets: Allowed (on-leash only in designated areas)