Canada, Nova Scotia: Fundy Hike

Five nights, six days of walks and hikes around the Bay of Fundy, showcasing dramatic coastal landscapes, the world’s highest tides, and rich local history.

“The incredible scenery, great food specialties, and quiet (some super-quiet) roads are under-rated…a secret gem that rivals the Cabot Trail. What I love is that through the week, it just gets better and better!” – Alana Y.

WHY THIS TRIP?

• The Bay of Fundy truly lives up to its name with the world’s highest tides and spectacular scenery along its coasts.
• This is a lesser travelled route, and you can expect quiet hikes.
• Visit historic Grand Pré, where Acadians built 400‑year‑old dykes to hold back the mighty tides and learn about their resilient history.
• Take a break in Wolfville, a charming university town known for its delightful eateries and welcoming local vibe.
• Hike up to the clifftop at Cape Split for breathtaking views of swirling currents and the force of nature below.
• Stop by Burntcoat Head—famous for recording the world’s highest tide measurements.
• Wander along Partridge Island, where the changing tides reveal colourful semiprecious stones along the beach.
• Enjoy a cosy stay in a clifftop lighthouse at Cape d’Or, complete with fresh, abundant seafood.
• Explore the Joggins Fossil Cliffs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient natural history.
• Marvel at the dramatic sea stacks in Eatonville, a picturesque reminder of the region’s storied shipbuilding past.

ROUTE EXPECTATIONS:

Click here to learn about our difficulty rating system.

Hikes traverse rugged wilderness trails with steep hills and soft surfaces. Sturdy footwear and a steady pace are essential.

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Daily Distance:

• 1: Introductions; Walk the Acadian dykes ~7km (+25m / -25m); visit Grand Pré.
• 2: Hike Cape Split ~14km (+270m / -270m).
• 3: Visit Burntcoat Head; hike Thomas’ Cove Trail ~6km (+50m / -50m); and/or hike at Five Islands Provincial Park ~5km (+190m / -190m).
• 4: Walk Partridge Island ~2km (+70m / -40m); hike Ward Falls ~6km (+120m / -120m).
• 5: McGahey Brook Canyon and Red Rocks ~10km (+240m / -240m); optional sea kayaking available.
• 6: Eatonville and Three Sisters ~5km (+100m / -100m); visit Joggins Fossil Cliffs.

(Click image to enlarge)

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Activity Levels

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To help you choose an appropriate level of daily challenge, we use elevation profiles to represent the route, and a challenge-rating system using symbols from the skiing world. Many of you will already be familiar with it; If not, here is a brief explanation. Note that these classifications may vary with weather and/or road conditions, and you should always arrive with a sense of fun and adventure. If you are unsure, choose a guided trip. The vehicle support can help you get over any hill, and can turn even the most difficult trip into an easy one.

 

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The easiest routes we offer, these are generally flat and cover relatively relaxed distances. You will be comfortable riding a hybrid bike, walking in sneakers, or paddling a light kayak, and will normally have time to take many photos and enjoy extended lunches.

 

This is primarily an easy route, but some days may fall into the moderate category. You can expect time to stop and smell the roses, but some of the rides may be on more hilly terrain.

 

Requiring moderate fitness levels, these cover terrain with hills and valleys, and tend to include distances of 50-80km (30-50mi.)/day cycling, or 3-6 hours of walking per day. Most Freewheeling Adventures fall into this category, and are suitable for most ability levels.

 

This is primarily a moderate route, suitable for most ability levels, but some days may be a little more challenging. You can expect some long distances, and/or some big climbs/descents.

 

The most challenging trips, these include longer distances, bigger hills, long hikes, exposed paddling, and full days of activity. We recommend a higher degree of fitness and training to make the most of the experience.

 

There is also a rare double black diamond, reserved for only the most difficult adventures.

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