Reversing Falls Rapids Tours

Photo provided by Tourism New Brunswick


This portion of the Saint John River is where a rare geologic wonder takes place. Choose from several fun ways to experience it.

Reversing Falls is like few other places in the world. Here, see one river flowing in two opposite directions. The rapids at Reversal Falls change direction as a result of three different tides: low, slack and high.

To truly appreciate what makes Reversing Falls special, visit just before the end of low tide. During low tide, the falls most vigorously rush through the gorge. Billions of gallons of water flow out to the Bay of Fundy each day.

After low tide, witness 20 minutes of calm that marks slack tide. The river becomes superficially placid, even though currents tug beneath the surface. Notice that boats floating on the river reverse during this period, traveling in the opposite direction at the onset of high tide.

Visit the information centre at Reversing Falls to learn about the geologic features that give rise to these unusual currents.

Take a leisurely tour of the rapids, riding the Reversing Falls Sightseeing Boat Tour, which runs through calm portions of the river. Relax in the shade of a covered boat and admire the views of Saint John on either side of you.

For more excitement, take the jet boat tour. Speed through the rapids and make sharp turns. Your expert boat driver will provide a fun but safe time. This is a wet ride, so buckle up the raincoat you are given.

If you are an experienced kayaker, make a special whitewater trip both up and downstream in your own kayak. Be sure you are fully informed before traveling on the river alone. Parts of it are dangerous.

To get to Reversing Falls, drive to Saint John and walk to its southern end along the Bay of Fundy. Hike in shoes you won’t mind getting wet.

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Reversing Falls Rapids

Days Inn by Wyndham Saint John New Brunswick

Days Inn by Wyndham Saint John New Brunswick

2.5 out of 5
175 City Road, Saint John, NB
Days Inn by Wyndham Saint John New Brunswick
Chateau Saint John Trademark Collection by Wyndham

Chateau Saint John Trademark Collection by Wyndham

4.5 out of 5
369 Rockland Rd, Saint John, NB
Chateau Saint John Trademark Collection by Wyndham
Delta Hotels by Marriott Saint John

Delta Hotels by Marriott Saint John

3.5 out of 5
39 King St, Saint John, NB
Delta Hotels by Marriott Saint John
Crowne Plaza Saint John Harbour View by IHG

Crowne Plaza Saint John Harbour View by IHG

4 out of 5
10 Portland Street, Saint John, NB
Crowne Plaza Saint John Harbour View by IHG
Hilton Saint John

Hilton Saint John

4.5 out of 5
1 Market Sq, Saint John, NB
Hilton Saint John
Travelodge Suites by Wyndham Saint John

Travelodge Suites by Wyndham Saint John

2 out of 5
1011 Fairville Blvd, Saint John, NB
Travelodge Suites by Wyndham Saint John
Holiday Inn Express Saint John Harbour Side by IHG

Holiday Inn Express Saint John Harbour Side by IHG

4 out of 5
400 Main Street, Saint John, NB
Holiday Inn Express Saint John Harbour Side by IHG
Homeport Historic Bed & Breakfast/Inn c 1858

Homeport Historic Bed & Breakfast/Inn c 1858

3 out of 5
80 Douglas Ave, Saint John, NB
Homeport Historic Bed & Breakfast/Inn c 1858
Hampton Inn & Suites Saint John

Hampton Inn & Suites Saint John

4 out of 5
51 Fashion Drive, Saint John, NB
Hampton Inn & Suites Saint John
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Reversing Falls

When visiting Reversing Falls in Saint John, New Brunswick, you can enjoy a variety of activities including walking, sports, and live music. Don't miss the breathtaking Athabasca Falls, and consider taking a sightseeing boat tour for a unique view of the area. For those seeking adventure, there's a water park resort nearby, as well as the fitness-focused Parc Géologique, making it a perfect destination for both relaxation and excitement.

Food and drinks

Start your day at Baybreeze Restaurant for a hearty daily breakfast featuring local ingredients and stunning views of the Reversing Falls. For a taste of New Brunswick’s seafood, explore nearby eateries that highlight the region's fresh catches and culinary traditions.

Shopping

The nearest shopping spot is Lancaster Mall, located 0.4 miles away, offering a variety of family-friendly and entertainment options. Market Square and the Saint John City Market, both 2 miles away, provide a local city vibe with unique gifts and souvenirs for your trip.

Recreation

Harbour Station, located 2 miles from Reversing Falls, offers an exhilarating ice skating experience amidst a vibrant atmosphere. For a tranquil retreat, visit Irving Nature Park, also 2 miles away, where you can unwind in nature's serenity. If you enjoy golf, the Rockwood Park Golf Course, 4 miles away, provides a scenic outdoor experience.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife near Reversing Falls at the Saint John Imperial Theatre and ShowCadia, both offering cultural performances just 2 miles away. For a further treat, Théâtre Susan B. Ganong, located 10 miles away, promises romance and family-friendly entertainment to complete your evening.

Find the best attractions near Reversing Falls

At Reversing Falls in Saint John, New Brunswick, you'll find a mix of stunning outdoor experiences and historical attractions. Explore the breathtaking Reversing Falls Rapids and the scenic Saint John River, or visit the historic lighthouse and nearby Trinity Church. For nature lovers, the Sulibhanjan Hills and local state parks offer beautiful landscapes perfect for outdoor adventures and relaxation by the beach.

  • Saint John Trade and Convention Centre: Located just 2 miles from Reversing Falls, this event and conference venue is perfect for business travelers. With modern facilities and a central location, it's a hub for local events and networking opportunities.
  • University of New Brunswick - Saint John: A historic college just 3 miles away, this university boasts a vibrant cultural atmosphere. Explore its beautiful campus and engage with local art and education.
  • Stonehammer Geopark: Only 0.5 miles from Reversing Falls, this UNESCO Global Geopark is a natural wonder. Known for its friendly locals, it offers stunning landscapes and geological features, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Reversing Falls

The best time to visit Reversing Falls is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are low and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January23.7°F (-4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low
February24.1°F (-4.4°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
March30.4°F (-0.9°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
April40.3°F (4.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
May49.5°F (9.7°C)Light RainMostly CloudyAverageAverage
June57.0°F (13.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
July63.7°F (17.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
August64.2°F (17.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
September58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October50.0°F (10.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November39.4°F (4.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low
December30.9°F (-0.6°C)Light RainMostly CloudyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Reversing Falls

To save on your trip to Reversing Falls in Saint John, New Brunswick, take advantage of the free entry to the falls and nearby attractions like Carleton Martello Tower. Plan your visit between November and January for lower accommodation rates, and book about a month in advance for the best deals. Consider using Expedia for last-minute hotel deals and package savings on flights and activities. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can also provide exclusive discounts and opportunities to earn OneKeyCash for future stays.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Reversing Falls are November to January, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Reversing Falls about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to customize your options based on your budget, preferred location, and desired type of hotel. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Reversing Falls with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.