5 Hidden Wonders of Fredericton
A few years ago I wrote a blog post about the Salamanca Trail which I remarkably only discovered after living in Fredericton for a dozen years. Judging from the reaction, I wasn’t the only one who had driven past this trail almost daily without realizing it. It got me thinking about other hidden wonders in Fredericton. Some of these are my picks and some came in from Facebook and Twitter and I look forward to discovering them this summer!
Paddling the river: I’m frequently asked about things to do in Fredericton and for visitors or locals alike, a paddle on the Saint John River is at the top of my list. For a unique view on New Brunswick’s riverfront capital head to the Small Craft Aquatic Centre. If you’re comfortable in a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddling you can rent them for a self-guided paddle or if a guided tour is your preference, you can book one with Second Nature Outdoors. Reservations can be made by calling 460 – 2260.
Waterfalls: Did you know there are more than a dozen waterfalls in and around Fredericton? Howland Falls and Garden Creek are among the most impressive and easiest to access. There’s also the Waterfalls in New Brunswick web site where Nicholas Guitard offers detailed descriptions, directions and GPS coordinates of the Fredericton-area waterfalls.
Great Canadian Beaver Pond Voyage And speaking of wildlife… Head to Mactaquac Provincial Park for a free guided tour through the park’s chain of beaver ponds. The trails are gentle and wheelchair accessible so people of all ages and abilities are able to enjoy the wetlands and pristine nature reserves. By reservation, call 363-4747
Hyla Nature Park I love that Fredericton is home to so many diverse natural spaces within our city limits. Once an illegal dump and stock car racetrack, it’s now Canada’s first amphibian sanctuary. Home to seven species of frogs, four species of salamander plus turtles, beavers and other wildlife.
Shogomoc Suspension Bridge This came to my attention through Facebook and I can’t wait to go check it out! The 265-foot suspension foot bridge spans where the Shogomoc River enters the Mactaquac head pond, near Nackawic. Opened in October 2011 this bridge is the final link to complete the Trans-Canada Trail between the Quebec border and Grand Bay-Westfield.
What do you think is Fredericton’s best kept secret? I’d love to hear your suggestions and maybe follow up on a few and post about them here! Be sure to follow us on Twitter and become a fan of Fredericton Town Square Social Hub on Facebook and Instagram for the latest news on things to do in Fredericton
