Unexpected Discoveries in the Bay of Fundy & Annapolis Valley
This area is famous for its world-record tides, whale watching, fossil hunting and growing wine industry. But there are other hidden gems waiting t...
Along Nova Scotia’s northern Bay of Fundy Coast, you’ll find a rocky, rugged and dramatic coastline that is shaped by the highest tides in the world and the Mi’kmaw peoples who have inhabited these shores for more than 11,000 years. Along this magnificent geological landscape, you’ll also find the oldest dinosaur fossils in Canada and remarkable geological evidence of continents colliding and ripping apart. The Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Global Geopark is an area of global significance spanning from Lower Truro to Apple River, a distance of 165 km along the coast.
Embark on a paddling excursion with NovaShores Adventures who offers day trips ranging from a few hours of exploring the Three Sisters rock formation, coastal caves, and sea stacks while enjoying a shore lunch, to two- or three-day overnight paddling and camping adventures. No matter how long your trip is, you’ll witness breathtaking cliffs, experience the coastline from a unique perspective, and see the contrast of blue and green waters against orange cliffs. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for sea birds and marine life, as sightings of various species of coastal birds and seals are common. *Tour times are tide dependent and tours are available at both high and low tide for the Three Sisters Day Tour. Paddling at high tide will allow you to paddle close to the Three Sisters rock formations.
With Spirit Reins Ranch as your guide, this is an adventure to remember! Go by horseback past farmland through wooded trails, and then to the beaches of the Bay of Fundy. Ride along the beach or let your horse trot in the salt water as you breathe in the sea air. You’ll be in wonder as you take in the views of one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the province. Meet at the ranch, meet your horse and be fitted with your helmet for this 2-hour beach trail ride.
Distant enough to be somewhat mysterious, this boat tour will take you to Isle Haute which is not only surrounded by Bay of Fundy tides but by mist, legends and 100-meter-high towering pillars of basalt lava emerging out of the water. Isle Haute is a rich sanctuary for seabirds and seals and has an appearance that’s anything but ordinary. 300-foottall rockface cliffs emerge out of the water and are topped with lush forest. Eight kilometers off the coast from Cape Chignecto, Isle Haute is three kilometers long and 400 metres wide. It’s significant culturally, is a National Wildlife Area, and is a geosite within the Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Global Geopark. Although visitors cannot go ashore to this National Wildlife Area, this tour with Local Guy Adventures of Isle Haute is a once in a lifetime experience that will not soon be forgotten.
Visit the Fundy Geological Museum and dinosaur exbibit gallery all year round! From May-October walk with experts from the Fundy Geological Museum through the region’s rich geological timeline to interpret and experience the incredible landscape you see today. The Parrsboro area contains internationally significant fossils, from Jurassic reptiles and dinosaurs to 300-million-year-old footprints of ancient amphibians and the world’s earliest reptiles. Parrsboro is famous for its gem and mineral treasures which are displayed throughout the museum’s exhibits.
The Cliffs of Fundy UNESCO Global Geopark is home to many hiking and walking trails to enjoy including stunning beaches. Always be aware of the tide times and be back at least 2 hours before high tide as the tide approaches very quickly. Top places to hike include Thomas Cove Coastal Reserve Trails, Five Islands Provincial Park, Economy Falls Trail, Wards Falls guided trail ride with Spirit Reins Ranch, George Fraser Falls guided hike with Local Guy Adventures, Partridge Island Lookoff and Hiking Trail, Cape d’Or Coastal Park, and Cape Chignecto Provincial Park.