Cross Canada Road Trip: The Ultimate New Brunswick Road Trip Guide
- Lyn (aka Jazz)
- 2 days ago
- 10 min read
On my cross Canada road trip, I rolled into New Brunswick, leaving behind the bustling cities of Quebec (which you can read about in my last post, Road Trip Routes Through Quebec), and I felt a shift in the air. The pace slowed, the scenery changed, and a profound sense of history settled in. This province is a beautiful patchwork of rich heritage and stunning natural landscapes.
For thousands of years, the land of New Brunswick has been the home of the Wolastoqiyik, Mi'kmaq, and Peskotomuhkati peoples, and it's their history that forms the foundation of this region. Later, the Acadian and British Loyalist settlements added to the cultural mosaic, creating the unique, bilingual character that defines the province today. The economy is deeply tied to the land and sea, with forestry and fishing at its heart, giving the place an authentic, hard-working feel. Geographically, it's incredibly diverse, from the rolling Appalachian mountains in the north to the rugged and wild Bay of Fundy coastline. The climate offers four distinct seasons, but for a summer road trip like mine, the weather is usually perfect for exploring.
Tips for Travellers to New Brunswick
Before we dive into the routes, here are a few things I learned along the way that can help you plan your journey.
Embrace the pace: Unlike the high-speed highways in other parts of the country, New Brunswick encourages you to slow down. Take those detours and spend an extra hour in a quaint town. The province’s beauty is best discovered at a leisurely pace, especially on the scenic routes.
Tidal awareness:Â This is crucial, especially if you plan to visit the Bay of Fundy. The tides here are the highest in the world, and what you see at high tide is dramatically different from what you'll see at low tide. Be sure to check the daily tide schedule for places like Hopewell Rocks to plan your visit accordingly.
Cell service:Â Be prepared for potential gaps in cell service, particularly in more rural and forested areas. Download maps and important information ahead of time.
Food: You absolutely cannot visit New Brunswick without indulging in the seafood. The lobster is legendary. Head to a coastal town and try a fresh lobster roll—it's one of the best parts of the trip! I even dedicated a section to the culinary delights of the East Coast in my post, A Guide to Eating Your Way Around Canada’s Eastern Provinces.
Table of Contents
My Cross Canada Solo Road Trip Through New Brunswick
As I wrote about in my post, Introduction and Overview of a cross-Canada road trip, planning is key. I've found that one of the most important decisions is to choose a path that fits your travel style. While I love the freedom of the open road (as I've mentioned in my post on solo female road trip tips), New Brunswick offers two distinct paths to discover its charm. Here are two potential routes to follow.
Route 1: The Quickest Way Through - The Trans-Canada Highway
This route (purple) is for travellers who want to see the main sights efficiently. Following the Trans-Canada Highway, it offers direct access to some of the province's biggest attractions and can be completed in approximately 4-5 hours of driving time, without stops.
Nature-Based Highlights
Grand Falls
Located right on the Trans-Canada, the Grand Falls Gorge is a spectacular sight during high water and a perfect first stop on your New Brunswick adventure. The sheer power of the St. John River as it carves through the dramatic gorge is awe-inspiring. You can take a scenic walk along the falls, or, if you're feeling adventurous, venture down to the suspension footbridge for a view of the rushing water below. It’s an incredible photo opportunity and a great way to stretch your legs. Later in the summer, when the water is low the exposed rock is still worthwhile to view.
Hartland
A short but worthwhile detour off the Trans-Canada, Hartland is home to the world’s longest covered bridge. This incredible wooden structure, stretching over 390 metres across the Saint John River, is a beautiful piece of Canadian history. It's a fantastic photo opportunity and a chance to experience a piece of the past before continuing your journey east.
Hopewell Rocks / Bay of Fundy
A visit to the Bay of Fundy is an absolute must-do when in New Brunswick, with the iconic Hopewell Rocks as its centrepiece. The rocks, carved into unique formations by the world's highest tides, offer a once-in-a-lifetime experience. At low tide, you can walk on the ocean floor and marvel at the "flowerpot rocks" from below. These magnificent "flowerpot" formations are sculpted by the powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy, which rise and fall up to 16 meters (52 feet) twice daily. Just a few hours later, at high tide, the same rocks are almost completely submerged. The sheer scale of the tide is breathtaking. I wrote an entire post dedicated to this amazing phenomenon, which you can read here: Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick.
History, Culture & Charming Towns
Edmundston
Situated on the border with Quebec, Edmundston is the gateway to New Brunswick and a vibrant hub of Acadian culture. As you cross into the province, you’ll immediately feel the welcoming, bilingual atmosphere of this city. It’s the perfect place to stop for a meal and immerse yourself in the local flavour, with great restaurants and a friendly vibe that will get you in the right mindset for the rest of your trip. Be sure to check out Parc de la République Provincial Park for great camping, trails, and wonderful amenities.
Fredericton
The provincial capital, Fredericton, is a city of historic charm and artistic flair. Its downtown core, centred around the historic Garrison District, is an ideal place to spend an afternoon. You can wander through the old military barracks, explore the Fredericton Farmers' Market for local crafts and food, or take a peaceful stroll along the walking bridge over the St. John River. The city's blend of historic architecture and vibrant, modern life is truly fascinating.
Beyond its historic core, Fredericton is a hub for arts and culture. The Beaverbrook Art Gallery houses an impressive collection of Canadian and international art. The city's lively music and festival scene, particularly during the summer, ensures there's always something happening. You'll find a wide range of independent shops and cafés, perfect for a leisurely afternoon of browsing.
Fredericton also has a burgeoning culinary scene, with an array of craft breweries and unique restaurants. It’s a great place to sample local flavours and a perfect base for exploring the surrounding area, including the incredible living history museum of King's Landing. I've covered this in more detail in my post, Exploring Fredericton, New Brunswick, and shared details on the nearby historical park of King’s Landing.
Florenceville Bristol (Potato World)
Located in the heart of New Brunswick's potato belt, Florenceville-Bristol is home to Potato World, a truly unique and quirky museum celebrating the region's agricultural heritage. You’ll be amazed at how much there is to learn about the humble potato, from its history to its vital role in the provincial economy. The museum is a fun and interactive stop that offers a slice of local life and a great photo op with the "World's Largest Potato Sculpture."
Moncton
As the largest city in the province, Moncton is a dynamic and thriving hub in the heart of New Brunswick. Its central location makes it a great home base for exploring both the Bay of Fundy coast and the Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island. The city itself has a youthful energy, with a lively downtown filled with shops, restaurants, and a bustling arts scene.
You can't talk about Moncton without mentioning its unique natural phenomena. Just outside the city, you'll find Magnetic Hill, an optical illusion where a car appears to roll uphill when put in neutral. It's a fun and quirky stop that feels like a magic trick.
Closer to the city centre, the Tidal Bore is a must-see. This a wave that rushes up the Petitcodiac River at high tide, caused by the extreme tides of the Bay of Fundy. Watching it roll in is an incredible demonstration of nature’s power.
Moncton also serves as a perfect stepping stone to other adventures. From here, it's a short drive to Shediac, the "Lobster Capital of the World," where you can indulge in fresh lobster. You can also easily head south to the Bay of Fundy and places like Hopewell Rocks, or continue on your journey toward Prince Edward Island via the Confederation Bridge.
Route 2: The Scenic Coastal Drive
This is the route (green on map) for those who want to wander and explore New Brunswick at a more leisurely pace. While the Trans-Canada is efficient, this alternative path will take you off the main highway and deep into the province's heart, leading you along winding coastal roads, through charming villages, and to hidden gems that you'd otherwise miss. This route is a journey of discovery, perfect for road trippers who believe the joy of travel lies in the detours. If you are stopping at all the places on this route, you'll need to add at least eight more hours of driving time to your itinerary.
One of the most rewarding aspects of a coastal road trip in New Brunswick is seeking out its beautiful lighthouses and covered bridges. These historic structures dot the landscape, each with its own story. They are a photographer's dream and a great way to mark your progress along the route.
Nature-Based Highlights
Dalhousie and Campbellton
Situated on the beautiful Bay of Chaleur, these northern towns are an ideal starting point for a scenic northern loop. They are nestled against the foothills of the Appalachian Mountains, offering incredible opportunities for hiking and fishing. You can explore a vast network of trails with spectacular views, and the region's rivers and lakes are well-known for their excellent salmon fishing.
Sawmill Covered Bridge
Tucked away in the scenic countryside, this picturesque covered bridge is a true gem. A visit here offers a sense of history in an idyllic setting. It's a great spot to stretch your legs and get that classic, postcard-perfect New Brunswick photo.
Cape Enrage
A short but breathtaking detour from the main coastal route, Cape Enrage is a dramatic headland where rugged cliffs plunge into the churning waters of the Bay of Fundy. The panoramic views from the historic lighthouse are absolutely stunning. This is also a perfect stop for thrill-seekers, as the site offers opportunities for rappelling down the cliffs and a thrilling zipline that soars over the bay.
Cape Jourimain Park
Located at the foot of the Confederation Bridge, this park is a beautiful final stop on your journey through New Brunswick. The extensive trail system leads you through diverse ecosystems, and from the observation tower, you'll be treated to a spectacular view of the Confederation Bridge and the Northumberland Strait. It’s an ideal place to stretch your legs, spot local wildlife, and snap some final photos before heading over to Prince Edward Island.
History, Culture & Charming Towns
Shediac
Known as the "Lobster Capital of the World," Shediac is a short and highly worthwhile detour from the Trans-Canada Highway. This charming coastal town is famous for its colossal lobster statue, which makes for a perfect photo op.
But the town is more than just a statue; it's a place to feast on some of the freshest lobster you'll ever taste and soak up the relaxed, beach-town atmosphere. You can also visit Parlee Beach Provincial Park, home to some of the warmest saltwater beaches in Canada, ideal for a swim or a long, leisurely walk on the sand.
Miramichi
A detour north for those interested in fishing and experiencing a different side of the province. The Miramichi River is a world-famous salmon fishing destination. The city itself, formed from the amalgamation of several smaller communities, offers a friendly, welcoming vibe.
I especially enjoyed visiting Middle Island, a former quarantine station for Irish immigrants fleeing the Great Famine. Visit Middle Island to experience history and nature together in the interpretive centre, walking trails, a beach area, murals, and picnic sites. The island is a protected bird sanctuary, making it a great place for bird-watching.
Saint John
Canada's oldest incorporated city, Saint John, is a fascinating mix of historic port city charm and modern urban energy. Its working harbour and rugged industrial feel give it a unique character, and the famous Reversing Falls are a must-see natural spectacle where the St. John River collides with the tides of the Bay of Fundy.
The city's historic heart is best explored on foot. The Saint John City Market, the oldest continuously operating farmer's market in North America, is a sensory feast of fresh food, local crafts, and bustling energy. You'll find yourself admiring the Victorian architecture and intricate details of the many buildings that have stood for centuries.
Saint John's cultural scene is just as rich. You can dive into the province's history at the New Brunswick Museum, take a walk along the waterfront Harbour Passage trail, or catch a show at one of the city's theatres or many festivals. It’s a city that rewards those who take the time to explore its every nook and cranny. Be sure to check out my detailed guide to the city, Visitor’s Guide to Saint John, New Brunswick.
St. Andrews
This quaint seaside town, officially known as St. Andrews by-the-Sea, is a true cultural gem. Designated as a National Historic Site, the entire village is a beautifully preserved example of a late 18th-century Loyalist settlement. Walk along the charming streets, which are lined with beautifully maintained homes and buildings. You can visit the Ross Memorial Museum, stroll through the town's gardens, or enjoy the stunning views of the bay. The iconic Algonquin Resort, with its classic Tudor-style architecture, is also a must-see landmark.
The area is renowned for its incredible whale watching, with tours often spotting humpback, fin, and minke whales. For a more personal experience, you can rent a kayak to explore the small islands dotting the bay, or simply take a leisurely walk along the coast to breathe in the fresh, salty air.
What's Next?
From here, I’ll be following the scenic route to Prince Edward Island, which I’ll cover in my next post. If you're planning a trip to the Maritimes, be sure to check out my Maritimes Road Trip 14 day Itinerary for some ideas on how to combine all three provinces into one amazing journey. I also recommend checking out my general road trip preparation tips if you're getting ready for your own trip!
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