Stunning.
The only word I could think of as I glanced out over the Bay of Fundy near Hopewell Rocks, New Brunswick. The water was as smooth as glass, with a calming light-coloured background of blue hues.
Stunning.
Although I had gone to simple see the rocks and the rising tide, I was actually more amused by the hundreds of shorebirds silently flying across the bay just inches from touching the water. I really fell in love with these little birds, catching them in their annual migration down south. I couldn’t peel my eyes away from the absolutely majestic scenery. Everything was so silent and so smooth.
Then I looked beside me.
Towering next to me was the equally impressive Hopewell Rocks; a series of wonderful rock formation caused by tidal erosion. The biggest attraction in this neck of the woods is the largest ocean tides in the world. This area in particular rises and falls an average of 35 feet, twice per day.
The formations themselves consist of sandstone rock and sedimentary conglomerate. The rocks have an unusual shape because of the tidal erosion, which has eroded the base of the rocks faster than the tops. At high tide, people glance at the rocks from viewpoints nestled amongst groomed hiking trails, while at low tide, everyone walks around on the ocean floor for an up-close and personal look at the rocks.
Another popular activity and one that we decided to do is sea kayaking. Thanks to Baymount Outdoor Adventures, visitors can paddle themselves around and under the rock formations at low tide, adding a whole new level of perspective to the visit. The guides are also happy to share advice about the area and the birds that migrate nearby.
Actually, if it wasn’t for one of the guides, I would have left Hopewell Rocks without visiting the mudflats. The mudflats were one of the highlights of our visit. Right next to the interpretative centre, one can peer out at a vast landscape of mud that is exposed due to the falling tide. The mud is so thick that clams can’t even call it home which, also means no fish. Mixed with the calm waters and blue hues, I could barely peel my eyes away from the view.
Hopewell Rocks are certainly worth a visit if you find yourself in New Brunswick, P.E.I or Nova Scotia. They are located just 30 minutes south of Moncton, NB. If you do find yourself in this beautiful natural area, get in touch beforehand with Baymount Outdoor Adventures if you’re interested in paddling some kayaks around the rocks. It certainly became a highlight of our visit.
Have you been to Hopewell Rocks before?
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Did the same trip last summer on a beautiful sunny day and loved it. The sheer number of birds was astounding too,
Whoops! Not sure how I missed this comment but yes! the birds were incredible. I don’t what kind they were but when the water was calm in the morning, there was a school of very little birds that would glide along the water. It was the epitome of tranquility.
I’ve been to the rocks and they are magnificent – truly a Canadian adventure – but I would have loved to kayak there. Lucky you.
Yes! It’s cool to be in the “tide”. If you don’t paddle back in time, you’ll be stuck in the mud for half the day!
My home Province! So much to see and do right in my backyard, Thanks for the reminder #MustDoCanada