Fundy National Park New Brunswick: 1st Time Visitor Guide
With some of the highest tides in the world and landscapes that range from dramatic coastal cliffs to deep Acadian forests, Fundy National Park in New Brunswick offers a one-of-a-kind wilderness experience in Atlantic Canada. Whether you’re hiking along waterfalls, exploring tide-carved shorelines, or camping beneath star-filled skies, this park is an unforgettable destination for first-time visitors seeking coastal adventure.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before your visit, how to get there, when to go, what to do, where to stay, and how to make the most of your trip.
Overview
Fundy National Park is located on the Bay of Fundy, known for its incredible tidal shifts, up to 50 feet between low and high tide. The park covers over 200 square kilometers and is home to more than 25 waterfalls, pristine hiking trails, and dense forests filled with maple, birch, and spruce trees.
It’s a top destination for:
- Tidal exploration
- Hiking and wildlife viewing
- Camping and stargazing
- Photography and family outings
- Sea caves
Photos:
How to Get There
Fundy National Park is located near the town of Alma, New Brunswick. Here are the main access routes:
- From Moncton (1.5 hours): Take NB-114 South. Moncton is the closest major city with an airport.
- From Saint John (2 hours): Follow NB-111 East and then NB-114.
- From Fredericton (2.5 hours): Head southeast via NB-7 and NB-114.
Alma is the gateway village where you can fuel up, find restaurants, or rent kayaks and bikes before entering the park.
Best Times to Visit
Late spring to early fall (May to October) is the best time to visit, offering optimal weather, open park facilities, and the full tidal range experience.
- May – June: Fewer crowds, ideal for hiking and photography.
- July – August: Warmest and busiest time; excellent for all outdoor activities.
- September – October: Stunning fall colors, cooler temps, and great for wildlife spotting.
Tip: Visit during a full or new moon for the most dramatic tides.
10 Best Things to Do
These 10 activities are a must for any first time visitor, but on top of that there’s much more to do here. I highly recommend checking out this TripAdvisor page on Fundy National Park with top visitor recommendations to make the most of your trip, but here’s the list:
- Explore the Bay of Fundy Tides: Witness the tide rise or fall more than 40 feet in hours, some of the highest on Earth.
- Walk the Ocean Floor at Alma Beach: At low tide, you can literally walk on the seafloor and explore marine life in tidal pools.
- Dickson Falls Trail: An easy loop to a lush gorge and one of the park’s most scenic waterfalls.
- Third Vault Falls: The tallest waterfall in the park and a must-see hidden gem.
- Hike the Coastal Trail: A rugged trail offering sweeping views of the Bay of Fundy.
- Kayaking on Bennett Lake: A peaceful freshwater spot perfect for a paddle or picnic.
- Stargazing: Fundy is a Dark Sky Preserve, ideal for night photography and stargazing.
- Golfing with Ocean Views: Yes, there’s a scenic 9-hole golf course inside the park.
- Biking the Black Horse Trail: For cyclists looking for moderate to advanced trails.
- Attend a Park Program: Fundy offers seasonal interpretive programs, night hikes, and tidal education talks.
Best Hikes (Beginner to Advanced)
- Dickson Falls Trail (Easy, 1.5 km): Family-friendly, with boardwalks and forest views.
- Laverty Falls Trail (Moderate, 5 km round trip): Ends at a scenic waterfall, with swimming possible in warmer months.
- Moosehorn Trail (Moderate, 7.3 km loop): Great mix of forest, rivers, and falls.
- Third Vault Falls (Challenging, 7.4 km round trip): Longer hike with rewarding views of the highest waterfall.
- Coastal Trail (Advanced, 10 km one way): Exposed terrain with steep climbs and incredible Bay views.
Packing List
You can get the majority of the following items on my Amazon gear list store:
- Comfortable hiking boots
- Rain jacket and waterproof layers
- Tide schedule (available in Alma or at the visitor center)
- Bug spray (especially in June/July)
- Water bottle and snacks
- Binoculars for bird and wildlife viewing
- Camera or phone with extra storage
- Headlamp or flashlight for night walks
- Swimsuit and towel (for waterfalls/lake)
- National Park Discovery Pass (if visiting other Canadian parks)
Where to Stay
Inside the Park:
- Chignecto North Campground: RV and tent sites with flush toilets and showers.
- Point Wolfe Campground: Nestled in the woods; close to trails and waterfalls.
- Backcountry Sites: For experienced hikers and overnight adventurers.
- oTENTiks: A cross between a cabin and a tent, perfect for first-timers.
Outside the Park: Closest hotels/lodges near Fundy National Park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Tides Change Fast: Always check tide tables before exploring beaches.
- Cell Service is Spotty: Download maps offline or grab a printed map at the visitor center.
- Wildlife: Keep a respectful distance from moose and other animals.
- Weather is Unpredictable: Always pack layers, even in summer.
- Park Pass Required: Purchase a day pass or Discovery Pass online or at the gate.
- Leave No Trace: Stay on trails and pack out everything you bring.
Similar areas:
Final Thoughts
Fundy National Park New Brunswick is a place where nature humbles you, where the ocean recedes and returns in dramatic fashion, where waterfalls crash into forested gorges, and where trails lead to unforgettable views. Whether you’re there for a peaceful retreat, a hiking adventure, or a family outing, this park is one of the best Canada National Parks to explore.
For first-time visitors, a little planning goes a long way. Use this guide to build your itinerary and get ready to explore one of the most dynamic coastal parks in North America.
