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About

Fundy National Park is located along the southeast coast of New Brunswick, Canada.  The park covers an area of 80 square miles (207 sq km) making it one of Canada’s midsize national parks.

Most people think of the tidal shifts that the Bay of Fundy is known for when they imagine Fundy National Park.  However, the tidal shifts are only a smidgeon of the facets of nature that make Fundy so special.

Yes, the Bay of Fundy does have the greatest tidal shift in the world.  However, it has astounding rugged rocky coastlines that are incredibly picturesque.  There are over 25 waterfalls splattered across the 80 square miles that add to the serenity of the park.

There are multiple rivers flowing through the dense forest and rocky terrain which help account for the abundance of waterfalls located in the park. The abundance of rivers and valleys has established a number of bogs throughout the park.

The temperate forest is comprised of balsam fir, red maple, red spruce, white spruce, white birch, and yellow birch.  There are over 650 species of vegetation that enrich this New England-Acadian Forest ecoregion.

The ecosystem makes for remarkable habitats to support the wildlife of the park.  Visitors who are passionate about wildlife can have hopes of seeing beaver, black bear, chipmunk, coyote, rabbits, raccoon, or white-tailed deer.

Bird lovers can look to the skies in hopes or amongst the bogs in search of great blue heron, white-winged crossbills, and the stunning peregrine falcons.

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Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park

Things to See

The national park is so much more than a shift in tides.  The rugged coastline, dense forests, beautiful waterfalls, and more can all be highlights of the park.

Bay of Fundy

Goose Bay is located in the northwestern branch of the Bay of Fundy. The Bay of Fundy is renowned for having the greatest tidal shift differential in the world.

Visitors can walk on the sandy ocean floor during the low tide.  The same spot may be under 50 feet (15 m) of the ocean waters.  This change in tidal water levels is considered the highest tidal change in the world.

The Bay of Fundy is also home to the Hopewell Rocks, which is one of the most famous natural attractions associated with the tidal shift.

Hopewell Rocks

The Hopewell Rocks are not actually in the national park.  However, almost every person who visits the national park goes on to explore the Hopewell Rocks.

The Hopewell Rocks are almost synonymous with the Bay of Fundy and the world’s greatest tidal shift.  This natural attraction involves a self-directed walk along the ocean floor when the low tides occur.

The Hopewell Rocks are flowerpot rocks that decorate the ocean floor as the tides depart and becoming mostly submerged when the high tides return. They create a unique coastal landscape and most find the photogenic.

Largest in the World

Largest in the World

Fundy National Park is renowned for the remarkable tidal shifts that occur in the Bay of Fundy, boasting the highest tides in the world.

These tides, influenced by the moon’s gravitational pull, result in a dramatic rise and fall of water levels, reaching up to 16 meters (52 feet) twice a day.

Fundy National Park hope well rockVisitors can witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the ocean floor being exposed during low tide, revealing intricate rock formations, tidal pools, and sea caves.

As the tide rolls in, the landscape transforms, with water filling the coastal areas and creating a dynamic marine environment. Exploring the park’s coastline during both high and low tides offers a unique perspective on the power of nature and the ever-changing beauty of the Bay of Fundy.

Things To Do

Engaging Fundy National Park

Hiking

Fundy National Park boasts over 100 kilometers of trails, catering to all skill levels. Explore dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints along trails like the Fundy Footpath and Dickson Falls Trail. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the park offers an abundance of natural beauty to discover on foot.

Kayaking

Paddle through the Bay of Fundy’s legendary tides, where you can witness dramatic changes in water levels and explore hidden coves and sea caves. Guided kayaking tours are available for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, providing a unique perspective of the park’s rugged coastline and marine wildlife.

Hiking

Fundy National Park boasts over 100 kilometers of trails, catering to all skill levels. Explore dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and panoramic viewpoints along trails like the Fundy Footpath and Dickson Falls Trail. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, the park offers an abundance of natural beauty to discover on foot.

Kayaking

Paddle through the Bay of Fundy’s legendary tides, where you can witness dramatic changes in water levels and explore hidden coves and sea caves. Guided kayaking tours are available for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, providing a unique perspective of the park’s rugged coastline and marine wildlife.

Fundy National Park Trails

There are 25 hiking trails making up over 62 miles (100 km) of trails that meander through Fundy National Park. The trails engage forests, plains, coastline, and of course the Bay of Fundy.

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Moosehorn Loop Trail

This is a 4.54-mile (7.3 km) loop trail travel along with one of the park’s rivers where you will discover a great swimming hole before continuing on to Laverty Falls. This is one of the more popular trails in the park.

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Third Vault Falls Trail

This is a point-to-point 4.55-mile (7.4 km) trail that meanders through the forests out to the Third Vault Falls.  It is a beautiful serene hike with a great view of this beautiful waterfall.

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Dickson Falls Trail

This is a short 0.9-mile (1.5 km) loop trail that is worth the effort just for the glorious nature of the mossy green lush forest that you walk through on your way to the falls. The size of the falls is not all that impressive, but they still serenade those who make the short journey to see them.

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Matthews Head with Squaws Cap Lookout Trail

This is a 2.8-mile (4.5 km) loop trail with 652 feet (198.7 m) of elevation gain.  The trail is rated moderate, but it features walks through the forest, along meadows, and views out over the glorious coastline.  Just under half of the loop is along the coastline allowing hikers to view the Bay of Fundy.

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Dickson Falls Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1 mile (1.5 km) loop with about 150 feet (45 meters) elevation gain

Description: This is one of Fundy National Park’s most beloved trails, leading to the enchanting Dickson Falls. The well-maintained boardwalk meanders through a lush, moss-covered forest before arriving at the picturesque waterfall.

Interpretive panels along the way provide insights into the local flora and fauna, making it an educational experience as well as a visual feast.

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Matthews Head Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2.8 miles (4.5 km) loop with about 300 feet (91 meters) elevation gain

Description: Offering expansive views of the Bay of Fundy and the rugged coastline, the Matthews Head Trail takes hikers through diverse ecosystems, including dense forests and cliffside meadows.

The trail provides numerous vantage points for breathtaking photos, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the light plays off the water and cliffs.

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Moosehorn Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.9 miles (3 km) loop with minimal elevation gain

Description: This gentle loop is perfect for families and those interested in experiencing the park’s diverse ecosystems without a strenuous hike.

The trail passes through a lush Acadian forest and by several wetlands, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and spotting moose, especially in the early morning or late evening.

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Coastal Trail

Rating: Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: 6.2 miles (10 km) one way with about 500 feet (152 meters) elevation gain

Description: This trail offers a more challenging hike along the rugged coastline of the Bay of Fundy. Hikers will navigate rocky beaches, steep cliffs, and dense coastal forests, rewarded with stunning views of the bay and its dramatic tides. The trail is also a great way to experience the geological diversity of the park, including volcanic rocks and sea stacks.

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Laverty Falls Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3.7 miles (6 km) round trip with about 300 feet (91 meters) elevation gain

Description: Leading to the beautiful Laverty Falls, this trail takes hikers through a mixed forest of maple, birch, and spruce.

The trail is moderately challenging with some steep sections, but the reward is a serene waterfall tucked away in the forest.

It’s a great spot for a picnic, with the soothing sounds of falling water adding to the peaceful ambiance.

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Dickson Falls Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1 mile (1.5 km) loop with about 150 feet (45 meters) elevation gain

Description: This is one of Fundy National Park’s most beloved trails, leading to the enchanting Dickson Falls. The well-maintained boardwalk meanders through a lush, moss-covered forest before arriving at the picturesque waterfall.

Interpretive panels along the way provide insights into the local flora and fauna, making it an educational experience as well as a visual feast.

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Matthews Head Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 2.8 miles (4.5 km) loop with about 300 feet (91 meters) elevation gain

Description: Offering expansive views of the Bay of Fundy and the rugged coastline, the Matthews Head Trail takes hikers through diverse ecosystems, including dense forests and cliffside meadows.

The trail provides numerous vantage points for breathtaking photos, especially during sunrise or sunset, when the light plays off the water and cliffs.

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Moosehorn Trail

Rating: Easy

Distance and Elevation Gain: 1.9 miles (3 km) loop with minimal elevation gain

Description: This gentle loop is perfect for families and those interested in experiencing the park’s diverse ecosystems without a strenuous hike.

The trail passes through a lush Acadian forest and by several wetlands, offering excellent opportunities for bird watching and spotting moose, especially in the early morning or late evening.

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Coastal Trail

Rating: Difficult

Distance and Elevation Gain: 6.2 miles (10 km) one way with about 500 feet (152 meters) elevation gain

Description: This trail offers a more challenging hike along the rugged coastline of the Bay of Fundy. Hikers will navigate rocky beaches, steep cliffs, and dense coastal forests, rewarded with stunning views of the bay and its dramatic tides. The trail is also a great way to experience the geological diversity of the park, including volcanic rocks and sea stacks.

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Laverty Falls Trail

Rating: Moderate

Distance and Elevation Gain: 3.7 miles (6 km) round trip with about 300 feet (91 meters) elevation gain

Description: Leading to the beautiful Laverty Falls, this trail takes hikers through a mixed forest of maple, birch, and spruce.

The trail is moderately challenging with some steep sections, but the reward is a serene waterfall tucked away in the forest.

It’s a great spot for a picnic, with the soothing sounds of falling water adding to the peaceful ambiance.

FAQ’s

What is Fundy National Park known for?

Fundy National Park is renowned for its dramatic tides, which are the highest in the world, reaching up to 16 meters (52 feet).

These tides create stunning landscapes of coastal cliffs, rugged shorelines, and expansive tidal flats, offering unparalleled opportunities for exploration and outdoor recreation.

The park is also famous for its lush Acadian forests, home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, moose, and rare bird species.

Visitors flock to Fundy National Park to experience its pristine hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls, and scenic campgrounds.

Additionally, the park’s charming seaside villages and cultural heritage sites provide insight into the region’s rich maritime history and vibrant Acadian culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or natural beauty, Fundy National Park offers something for everyone to enjoy.

What is Fundy National Park known for?

Fundy National Park is renowned for its dramatic tides, which are the highest in the world, reaching up to 16 meters (52 feet).

These tides create stunning landscapes of coastal cliffs, rugged shorelines, and expansive tidal flats, offering unparalleled opportunities for exploration and outdoor recreation.

The park is also famous for its lush Acadian forests, home to a diverse array of wildlife, including black bears, moose, and rare bird species.

Visitors flock to Fundy National Park to experience its pristine hiking trails, picturesque waterfalls, and scenic campgrounds.

Additionally, the park’s charming seaside villages and cultural heritage sites provide insight into the region’s rich maritime history and vibrant Acadian culture. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or natural beauty, Fundy National Park offers something for everyone to enjoy.

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