Are you planning to tackle the Fundy Footpath in New Brunswick? As one of the toughest multi-day hikes around, the Fundy Footpath’s rugged terrain requires careful preparation and backcountry know-how. If you’re considering this trek, keep reading to find out what you should know. It’s not an easy one — but such a worthwhile adventure!
My first attempt on the Fundy Footpath in July 2022. I say attempt because (you guessed it) I didn’t complete the route. I barely made it through day one. That trip holds the record as the only backcountry trip I’ve ever bailed on… but with good reason. I woke up around midnight with intense pain on the top of my foot after trekking from Big Salmon River to Cradle Brook. The best I could figure — extensor / dorsal tendonitis. I took anti-inflammatory meds and tried to get back to sleep. In the morning, I could barely walk without sharp pain. So I made the hard decision to hobble off the route. My new friend drove me back to my car. That was it.
After that experience, I had been waiting for another chance to tackle the footpath. Turns out, this was the year. I made plans to hike the opposite direction starting in Fundy National Park and ending at the suspension bridge. May long weekend offered amazing weather and round two was a resounding success!
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Fundy Footpath Map
Do you want more specific details? Pick up a copy of the Fundy Footpath Hiker’s Guide Book which includes the detailed map below. I also downloaded Fundy Footpath on AllTrails for extra navigation support.
About the Fundy Footpath
Location: New Brunswick, Canada
Distance: 64 km point-to-point
Difficulty: Difficult to strenuous
Elevation: Total elevation gain over 3,000 metres / 10,000 feet
Time: 4 – 5 days, depending on fitness level and hiking pace
Dog-friendly: Dogs must be on a leash in Fundy National Park
Features: The Fundy Footpath is a rugged coastal trail skirting the world-famous Bay of Fundy near Moncton, New Brunswick. If you’re planning to visit, be prepared for a dozen deep ravines, creeks and rivers, two low-tide crossings, and forest terrain. You will find stunning views from the top of 100-metre sea cliffs throughout the journey. The footpath is well-trodden and offers plenty of backcountry camping options in the forest or on the beach.
The Fundy Footpath is located on the traditional unceded territory of the Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet), Mi’kmaq, and Peskotomuhkati (Passamaquoddy) peoples. The Peace and Friendship Treaties were signed in the Maritimes and Gaspé before 1779.
Fundy Footpath FAQs
Q. Where is the Fundy Footpath located?
A. The Fundy Footpath follows the longest undeveloped stretch of coastline on the eastern seaboard, stretching between the Fundy Trail Parkway from Big Salmon River (near St. Martins) to Fundy National Park (near Alma) on the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick.
Q. How difficult is the Fundy Footpath?
A. It’s always challenging to describe trail difficulty in a way that suits everyone. How difficult you find this trail will depend on your previous backpacking experience, fitness level, and backcountry camping skills. That being said, the Fundy Footpath is not an easy adventure and I would not recommend for novice hikers. The footpath follows rugged terrain with strenuous uphill and downhill sections through ravines, challenging river and creek crossings, and dense coastal forest.
Q. What’s the highest elevation gain on the Fundy Footpath?
A. The highest elevation gain is on the east side of Little Salmon River gaining between 250 – 300 metres / 984 feet. Total elevation for the entire Fundy Footpath is around 3,000 metres / 9,842 feet.
Q. I am new to hiking. Should I attempt the Fundy Footpath?
A. I wouldn’t recommend the Fundy Footpath for beginners. I have completed several multi-day hikes and Fundy Footpath isn’t for beginners. If you’re new to multi-day trekking, why not consider a one or two-night route?
Q. Can I do a shorter Fundy Footpath trek instead of the full route?
A. Yes, you can plan a shorter route. For example, reserve one night at Goose Creek Campground in Fundy National Park and hike out and back. Or hike through the Eye of the Needle on Little Salmon River and spend a night or two at Little Salmon River Campground.
Q. What’s the best direction to hike the Fundy Footpath?
A. This depends on a variety of factors and is fairly subjective. I thoroughly enjoyed hiking southbound from Fundy National Park to Big Salmon River at the Fundy Trail Parkway.
Q. Is there a hiker shuttle option?
A. Yes, hiker shuttles are available through Fundy Footpath Hiker Shuttle. Arrange your shuttle by calling 1-866-999-2914 or email gofundytours@gmail.com.
Q. Do I need to reserve the Fundy Footpath?
A. No, you do not need to reserve campsites on the Fundy Footpath, except for Goose River Campground inside of Fundy National Park. If you’re leaving a vehicle, register at a visitor centre in Fundy National Park or next to Big Salmon River Suspension Bridge.
Q. How difficult are the water crossings?
A. Water crossings vary depending on the time of year and amount of rainfall. I didn’t need to remove my boots for the only tidal crossing at Goose Creek because I arrived at the lowest tide. I suggest planning to cross within 3 hours on either side of low tide for Goose Creek. I had to remove my boots for the Little Salmon River crossing. Rivers and creeks can swell in the early season and crossings can be much more difficult.
Q. Is there cell phone coverage on the Fundy Footpath?
A. Cell phone coverage is spotty. I always carry this satellite communications device in case of emergencies where cell service isn’t available.
Q. What’s the best time of year to hike the Fundy Footpath?
A. Plan your Fundy Footpath trip between late May and September. May’s long weekend was perfect for me with warm weather, dry conditions, and very little rain. Shoulder seasons can sometimes be colder, wetter, and more challenging for river and creek crossings.
Q. Where can I book a guided tour?
A. You can book a guided Fundy Footpath hike with Bay of Fundy Adventures. Pick up a copy of the Fundy Footpath Hiker’s Guide Book for self-guided trips (includes a useful map!).
Who Should Hike the Fundy Footpath?
If you’re looking for a rugged and challenging backcountry adventure, the Fundy Footpath could be for you! You may want to consider a few things before lacing up your boots. First off, have you completed a multi-day hiking trip before? There’s nothing wrong with being a hiking newbie, but why not try out an easier route first? (something like Fishing Cove Trail in Cape Breton Highlands National Park is perfect for beginners!).
If you’re ready to take on the Fundy Footpath, make sure you pack the necessary hiking gear and do your research to ensure the best possible time. Are you going solo or in a group? What will you do in case of a backcountry emergency? Do you have wilderness first aid skills? There’s always a lot to consider before a backpacking trip. Becoming prepared beforehand increases your chances of a successful trip!
Read next: Your Complete Guide to Thru-Hiking the East Coast Trail
When Should You Hike the Fundy Footpath?
The Fundy Footpath hiking season is from late May to mid-October. Fundy Trail Parkway opens around May long weekend and allows access to the Big Salmon River Suspension Bridge. Fundy Trail closes toward the end of October. Depending on the weather forecast, the end of May can be a great option for early-season hiking (it was for me, anyway!). Between June and August, you will likely find more hikers and fewer options for quiet camping. That being said, I’ve heard the Fundy Footpath rarely (if ever) feels crowded with plenty of backcountry campgrounds to choose from.
Do I Need A Reservation for the Fundy Footpath?
You do not need to make a reservation for the Fundy Footpath. The only exception is Goose River Campground requiring a reservation fee. You can book up to three campsites through Fundy National Park online or by calling 1-877-737-3783. Backcountry camping in Fundy National Park operates from May 17 to November 3. If you’re leaving a vehicle, you must register your vehicle at a visitor centre before heading out.
Read next: Your Complete Guide to Hiking Cape Chignecto Trail in NS
How Much Does the Fundy Footpath Cost?
Here are the typical expenses for the Fundy Footpath:
| Expense | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Reservation | N/A |
| Backcountry Camping Fee (Goose River) | $12.75 / person / night |
| Fundy Trail Parkway Entry | $12.17 / adult |
| Fundy National Park Entry | $9.00 / adult / day $17.50 / family / day $75.25 / adult / season $151.25 / family / season |
| Shuttle | $300 / up to 6 people |
| Food and Supplies | Varies (personal preferences, trip duration) |
Directions To the Fundy Footpath
In Fundy National Park, head over to the Coastal Trail East parking area on Point Wolfe Rd where you can leave your vehicle. Before starting your hike, stop by the visitor centre near the park entrance to register your vehicle. Fundy National Park is approximately an hour’s drive from either Moncton or Saint John. If you’re planning to start at Big Salmon River Suspension Bridge, enjoy the scenic drive along Fundy Trail Parkway and stop by the visitor centre if you’re leaving a vehicle in the parking area. You will need about an hour from Saint John and 1 hour 40 minutes from Moncton.
Read next: Mount Carleton Hike: Highest Peak in the Maritimes
Where To Say Near The Fundy Footpath (Before & After Your Hike)
If you’re looking for accommodations before or after your hike, there are several options near the Fundy Footpath. Some hikers choose to frontcountry camp in Fundy National Park to keep things simple and budget-friendly, while others book a stay in St. Martins or Alma for a comfortable bed and easy access to meals. Wherever you stay, arriving early makes it easier to sort out last-minute details and start your hike without feeling rushed.
Fundy Footpath Parking & Registration
Are you planning to leave a vehicle on either end of the Fundy Footpath? You can find parking in Fundy National Park near the Coastal Trail East or parking along Fundy Trail Parkway near the Big Salmon River Suspension Bridge. In Fundy National Park, you will need to purchase a park pass if you don’t have a Parks Canada Discovery Pass. Visitors are required to purchase entry for the Fundy Trail Parkway. No additional cost to park your vehicle.
Note: Remember, there’s no need to make a reservation but you are required to register your vehicle before starting the Fundy Footpath.
Fundy Footpath Hiker Shuttle
Do you need a vehicle shuttle from one end of the Fundy Footpath to the other? If you don’t have a friend nearby who can help you out (thanks, Megan!), you may want to book your Fundy Footpath Hiker Shuttle beforehand. Book early to avoid disappointment. Shuttle cost is currently $300 for up to 6 people but prices are subject to change. Touch base with the shuttle organizer by calling 1-866-999-2914 or email gofundytours@gmail.com for pricing and availability.
Read next: Your Complete Guide to Hiking the West Coast Trail
4-Day Fundy Footpath Itinerary
Day 1 — Coastal Trail East to Goose River Campground – 21 KM
Starting from the parking area around 10:30am, I walked to the Coastal Trail East Trailhead and began hiking through Fundy National Park. Hiking infrastructure is excellent and signage ample as I completed several different trails — Coastal, Shiphaven, Coppermine, and Goose River. There’s a bit of road walking as well. I reached Matthews Head around noon and the covered bridge around 1:30pm where I ate lunch in red Adirondack chairs. Don’t do what I did and somehow forget to book a campsite at Goose River… it’s still in Fundy National Park and requires a backcountry reservation. Luckily, I found space on the beach when I arrived at 5:30pm and paid at the end of my trip. If you’re hiking the entire Fundy Footpath, it’s worth staying a night at Goose River and try to get the beach if possible. You can also continue another 2 km to the park boundary to camp and avoid the backcountry fee.
Day 2 — Goose River to Quiddy River Campground – 13 KM
Due to the tide charts, I left Goose River at 11:00am to hit Goose Creek at low tide. Goose Creek is a tidal crossing and you cannot safely cross at high tide. Jim Brook is a nice water source and there are several others along the way. I reached Goose Creek around 3:00pm and didn’t even need to remove my boots to cross — perfect timing!! After a nice break, I continued on toward Quiddy River. Martins Head was very busy (and loud) with ATVers… like a scene out of Mad Max. I reached Quiddy River by 6:00pm and had a nice night with a new friend. Quiddy River has nice sandy sites and doesn’t feel damp or dark. Water source is top notch.
Day 3 — Quiddy River to Cradle Brook Campground – 17 KM
Day three started early and I left camp at 8:40am. I reached Hunter Brook just before 10:00am and then Rapidy Brook with the bridge at 12:30pm. I was determined to reach Cradle Brook by the end of the day. I had enough time for an impromptu two-hour lunch break at Little Salmon River while chatting with a couple new friends. At around 3:20pm, I left Little Salmon River and made it to Cradle Brook Campground by 5:00pm. I loved camping on the beach here and water source is fantastic. I also went for a dunk in the (very cold) Bay — refreshhhhhing!
Day 4 — Cradle Brook to Big Salmon River Suspension Bridge – 12 KM
I enjoyed a leisurely morning and left camp around 11:30am. My final day was far from easy. Don’t underestimate the steep 1-km climb out of Cradle Brook. It’s a slog getting up that stair ladder. Afterwards, the hiking is fairly moderate. I made it to Seely Beach around 1:00pm where I sat on a picnic table and ate a quick lunch. I made it to the Big Salmon Suspension Bridge by 3:30pm and that was the end of my trip.
Fundy Footpath Distances
| KM | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | Coastal Trail East Parking Lot – Fundy National Park | |
| 4 | Herring Cove Beach | Lookoff platform, outhouses, & beach access |
| 5 | Matthews Head | Viewpoint with Parks Canada Red Chairs #ShareTheChair |
| 6 | Squaw’s Cape Lookoff | Viewpoint |
| 10.5 | Point Wolfe Campground | 154 campsites including 24 with electric and water for RVs |
| 21 | Goose River Backcountry Campground | 3 established campsites with outhouses, water source, bear hangs, firewood and fire pits. Reservation required. Located in Fundy National Park. |
| 24 | Rose Brook | Campsites in the forest and on the beach. Lots of space. Bear hang. Excellent water source. |
| 26 | Jim Brook | Limited campsite options. Excellent water source. |
| 29.5 | Goose Creek | Plenty of space with large campsites. Excellent water source. Bear hang. Low tide crossing. |
| 31 | Brandy Brook | Campsites in the forest. Limited space. Excellent water source. |
| 35 | Quiddy River | Lovely open campsites next to Quiddy River. Excellent water source. No outhouse. Water crossing. |
| Martin Head | Beautiful spot. Detour from the Fundy Footpath. Busy campsite with ATVs on the weekends. Too busy for me. | |
| 38 | Telegraph Brook | Plenty of campsites on the beach. Bear hang. Nice waterfall & swimming hole. Excellent water source. |
| 41 | Wolf Brook | Campsites in the trees. Lots of space. Excellent water source. Bear hang. Water crossing. |
| 43.5 | Brothers Brook | Best for hammocks (not tents). Excellent water source. |
| 47 | Little Salmon River | Several campsites in the forest with newly established tent pads, picnic table, bear hang, and fire pit. More inland and away from the Bay of Fundy. |
| 52 | Cradle Brook | 2 campsites in the forest on new tent platforms. New picnic table, fire pit, bear hang, and outhouse. Campsites on the beach. Excellent water source. Beautiful cove. One of my favourites! |
| 56 | Seely Beach | Plenty of campsites in the forest and on the beach. New outhouse. Picnic table and fire pit. Bear hang. Very popular. |
| 56.5 | Dragon’s Tooth | Four-metre high, egg-shaped rock. One of the Amazing Places in the Fundy Biosphere Reserve. |
| 59 | Long Beach | |
| 62.5 | Big Salmon | Campsites in the forest. Outhouse. |
| 64 | Big Salmon River Suspension Bridge & Visitor Centre | Plenty of parking space, picnic tables, small beach. |
Read next: Turtle Mountain Hike Near Saint John, New Brunswick
Navigating the Fundy Footpath
If you’re an experienced hiker, navigating the Fundy Footpath shouldn’t be too difficult. It’s important to be prepared with essential navigation tools such as a compass and map. I downloaded the Fundy Footpath GPS file from AllTrails as well (not perfect but accurate enough for me). The Fundy Footpath is very well marked with white blazes that start outside of Fundy National Park (after Goose River Campground to the south). In the national park, there’s plenty of trail signage to help you on your way.
If you lose sight of the white blazes, backtrack until you find one. There’s almost always a white blaze in sight. Directional changes are marked with double-white blazes and side trails are marked with yellow blazes. You should also become familiar with the various side trails for emergency evacuation purposes.
Note: Thank you to all of the volunteers who maintain the Fundy Footpath year after year! Without the dedication of volunteers, hiking adventures like the Fundy Footpath would not be possible. Show your appreciation for volunteers and help maintain the pristine nature of this special place.
Fundy Footpath Water Crossings
Goose Creek is a large low-tide crossing and you should plan to approach at least 3 hours on either side of low tide. Don’t forget to bring a printout or photo of the tide charts. I made it to Goose Creek at the lowest tide and found a very easy crossing. I walked across in bare feet but you may want to bring water shoes. Unclip your hip and chest straps on your pack before crossing deeper creeks and rivers. It’s important to note that Quiddy River, Wolf Brook, and Little Salmon River can also become impassible during heavy rainstorms or spring run-off.
Read next: Your Complete Guide to the Long Range Traverse in Newfoundland
Fundy Footpath Safety
Safety is your responsibility. Always make it a priority. When I’m hiking or paddling solo, I’m even more aware of the potential risks and emergency scenarios. Make sure you leave your trip plan with someone you trust. If you’re not sure what to include, check out the great resources at AdventureSmart. Bring a small first aid kit along with you, including some antihistamines and anti-inflammatory medications. Take note of the different access routes along the Fundy Footpath in case you need to evacuate. Dial 9-1-1 in the event of a life-threatening emergency. I always carry a satellite communications device on multi-day trips with an SOS feature for emergency purposes (also very handy for check-ins without cell service).
Note: An emergency response in the backcountry could take hours. I highly suggest becoming aware and prepared through a wilderness first aid course before heading out.
Meal Preparation
I’m a big fan of freeze-dried meals in the backcountry. Bring high-calorie foods to fuel your Fundy Footpath adventure. I heard a story of one guy who decided to just bring apples and that’s really not a great idea. Becoming “hangry” in the backcountry leads to mistakes and mishaps and, in the worst cases, serious and life-threatening situations.
I tend to start each day with instant oatmeal or instant potatoes. I’ll typically eat something like a wrap with peanut butter and beef jerky (or something similar) for lunch. To replenish energy during the day, I like to bring snacks like trail mix and energy chews. Remember to pack a water filter or purification tablets to refill from ample freshwater sources.
Toilets
You’ll find basic outhouses near most of the designated sites on the Fundy Footpath. I noticed new outhouses at Seely Beach, Cradle Brook, and Little Salmon River. Please do not dispose of garbage, feminine hygiene products, or food waste here. Plan to carry these waste items out with you. If you’re not near an outhouse, dig a hole with a trowel and bury your waste between 6 to 8 inches deep and at least 200 metres away from hiking trails, campsites, and water sources.
Read next: Your Complete Guide to Canoeing in Kejimkujik National Park
Wildlife on the Fundy Footpath
New Brunswick is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, moose, and black bears. The Fundy Footpath is bear country, so whether you’re hiking alone or in a group, make noise to avoid startling animals. I didn’t carry bear spray this time but it’s not a bad idea. Remember to keep a fair distance from wildlife and never feed wild animals. Store your food and scented items like toothpaste out of reach, using the bear hangs when available (Goose River, Seely Beach) or hang in a nearby tree. Please do your part to help maintain the natural environment by following Leave No Trace principles to limit human impact on the area.
Fundy Footpath Packing List
Here’s my packing list:
- Osprey Atmos 50
- Waterproof pack cover
- MSR Hubba Hubba
- MEC Talon sleeping bag
- Therm-a-rest NeoAir
- Sleeping bag liner
- Siltarp
- Camp shoes
- Salomon Quest 4 hiking boots
- Arc’teryx Beta LT jacket
- Rain pants
- Jetboil Flash
- Stove fuel
- Campsuds soap
- Osprey 2L reservoir
- Nalgene water bottle
- Komperdell hiking poles
- Lighter / matches
- GSI mug
- Spoon
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Bug spray
- Toilet paper
- Towel
- Toothbrush / toothpaste
- MSR TrailShot filter
- Headlamp
- Paracord
- Buff
- Mora Knife
- First aid kit
- Leukotape (for blisters)
- 2 merino wool t-shirts
- 1 long sleeve (love this Patagonia Capilene)
- 1 pair of pants
- 2 pairs of shorts (1 for hiking; 1 for camp)
- 3 merino underwear (1 for hiking; 1 for camp; 1 extra)
- 2-3 merino socks (1 for hiking; 1 for camp; 1 extra)
- Down jacket (love this Patagonia down sweater jacket)
- Warm hat and gloves
- Map / compass
- Satellite comms (Zoleo)
- Powerbank
- Camera
- Food
Things To Do in Alma
After finishing the Fundy Footpath, I went over to the public washrooms and showers in Fundy National Park to clean up. Then I made my way over to The Alma Boathouse Restaurant for a delicious post-hike meal. I was hungry enough to devour a bowl of seafood chowder and then a plate of fish and chips. Honestly, those could’ve been the best fish n chips I’ve ever eaten — or maybe I was just that hungry! If you’re staying overnight, Alma has some comfortable places to stay after a long day on the trail.
Fundy Footpath Video
Have you hiked the Fundy Footpath in New Brunswick? Are you planning your trip soon? Leave a comment below!
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Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
Well done Thomas. An excellent, informative article. I’m surprised you got all that gear into a 50L backpack. I had less and my 65L was full. At the old 0km marker for the Footpath at Goose River, camping is free. Plenty of sites and an excellent water supply.
Thank you, Ron! Good tip with the free campsite. I did the West Coast Trail with a 68-litre pack (stuffed full) and it took a few years to pare down to 50 litres. I really love it.