Walk on the ocean floor, witness the power of a tidal phenomenon and explore a national park at a charming village on the southeastern coast of New Brunswick.
In the heart of the Bay of Fundy, Alma is a picturesque village with a huge national park on its doorstep.
No visit to Alma is complete without experiencing its famous Fundy Tides. The vertical difference between high and low tides exceeds 53 feet (16.2 meters) at times, making them the world’s highest. You can expect to see one high and one low tide during daylight hours, although times vary each day. For some good views of the natural spectacle, head to the fishing docks in Alma Harbour and stay a while to see how it looks at different sea levels.
Another good place to watch the tidal event is from the cliffs of Cape Enrage. Stand next to the light station and fog alarm, which have been sending signals to approaching vessels since 1838. If you’re feeling adventurous while you are here, sign up for a climbing or rappelling session on the cliff walls.
Evidence of the incredible power of the Fundy Tides can be seen at Hopewell Rocks. These are flowerpot shaped rock formations that have been sculpted by water erosion. During low tides, walk on the ocean floor beneath the rocks, then a few hours later, kayak over the same spot. At high tides, the water can rise up to four stories in height.
There are more fresh air adventures to be enjoyed over at Fundy National Park. Depending on the time of year, hike, bike or ski along the park’s trails. If a daytime trip isn’t enough, stay overnight in one of the camping grounds.
You can also base yourself in the village, which has earned a good reputation for the variety and quality of its seafood chowder restaurants.
Reach Alma by flying into airports at Moncton, Saint John and Fredericton. You can also take the train into Moncton or drive from the United States along Highway 1. Your journey will be rewarded with gorgeous scenery and fascinating tidal phenomena.
