New Brunswick, Canada's fall foliage transforms the province as the air turns crisp and the days shorten. Known for its expansive forests and dramatic coastlines, New Brunswick dons a cloak of fiery reds, vibrant oranges, and golden yellows. This annual display of fall foliage makes New Brunswick a must-visit destination for those who appreciate the quieter, more picturesque side of the autumn season.
Autumn's Palette
When and Where to Experience the Best Fall Foliage
The kaleidoscope of New Brunswick, Canada fall foliage colours peaks from late September to mid-October. The northern reaches of New Brunswick, including areas like Edmundston and Campbellton, are among the first to change, with the southern locales like Saint John and the scenic Fundy coast following suit. This staggered coloring provides an extended period for foliage enthusiasts to enjoy the season.
Scenic Routes and Prime Locations
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Fundy National Park: Fundy National Park offers dramatic cliffside views with the Bay of Fundy in the background, creating a stunning contrast between the bright autumn colors and the blue-gray waters of the bay. The park’s Acadian forest is home to many species that burst into vivid colors in the fall.
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Appalachian Range Route: Northern New Brunswick, especially along the Appalachian Range, is known for its breathtaking views of rolling hills covered in autumn colours. The mountains and valleys amplify the beauty of the changing leaves.
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Mount Carleton Provincial Park: This is home to the highest peak in the Maritimes, Mount Carleton, and offers panoramic views that stretch across the province’s untouched forests. Hiking trails here are particularly popular in the fall.
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Kingsbrae Garden (St. Andrews): Known for its carefully curated gardens, Kingsbrae Garden in St. Andrews By-the-Sea is a fantastic spot to combine formal gardens with the backdrop of wild New Brunswick forests in full autumn bloom.
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Saint John River Valley: This picturesque region is often described as one of the most scenic areas for fall colours. You can cruise along the River Valley Scenic Drive, take in the view from elevated vantage points like the Mactaquac Provincial Park, or explore by boat for a waterside perspective.
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Kouchibouguac National Park: Kouchibouguac National Park offers beautiful forests along with coastal dunes and salt marshes, making it an interesting place to see a variety of foliage alongside unique landscapes.
Local Celebrations and Culinary Delights
No fall visit is complete without experiencing the local culture. New Brunswick’s small towns come alive with harvest festivals, such as the Corn Hill Nursery Harvest Festival, the Kedgwick Fall Festival and the Fall Festival at Poley Mountain.
Photographic Journeys and Wildlife Encounters
For wildlife watchers and photography enthusiasts, the fall migration of birds along the Fundy coast provides a spectacular natural event. Meanwhile, the province’s fauna, including moose and deer, are more active and visible against the backdrop of colourful forests.
Stay and Play
Autumn in New Brunswick is characterized by cool, pleasant days and chilly nights, ideal for cozying up in one of the province's many charming inns or bed-and-breakfasts. Visitors can also choose from a range of accommodations, from rustic campgrounds in provincial parks to luxurious lakeside cottages. Each offers a unique way to experience the crisp autumn air and the natural tapestry of colours.
A Season of Beauty
In New Brunswick, Canada fall foliage isn’t just a sight to be seen; it’s a celebration of nature’s persisting allure and a reminder of the quiet beauty that surrounds us. Whether you’re meandering through a covered bridge lined with maples or paddling under a canopy of fiery leaves, autumn in New Brunswick offers a fresh perspective on a province rich in landscapes and heritage.
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