One of Canada’s easternmost states, New Brunswick is an ecologically and culturally diverse province that blends rolling evergreen forests, coastal grass plains, and rural farm communities with hundreds of miles of rugged shores and sandy beaches and buzzing cities. Recognized for its vast swathes of wilderness teeming with wild salmon, bears, moose, elk, and deer, New Brunswick draws outdoors enthusiasts looking for adventure.

Areas like Fundy National Park, Kennedy Lakes Park, Jacquet River Gorge, and the Loch Alva Wilderness Area offer endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, kayaking, fishing, and wildlife spotting in picturesque surroundings. The cities of Fredericton and Moncton offer a range of attractions, from brewpubs and museums to historical districts and art galleries. And with the major hubs of Halifax, Quebec City, and Montreal in neighboring provinces, it’s easy to soak up even more local flavor — whether you’re sampling fresh fiddleheads in the spring or drizzling maple syrup over pancakes.

The northern coastal climate of New Brunswick experiences significant variations in conditions throughout the year. The summer months are characterized by warmer temperatures and long sunny days that are great for taking advantage of water-based activities and community events like the Buskers on the Bay Festival in July — check out food stalls, children’s games, and a packed program of live music — and the Fundy Fringe Festival, which showcases independent dance, comedy, and performance art in August. Winters in the area can be frigidly cold, with modest snowfall in the lower elevations and higher quantities in the mountains that make for excellent skiing in the province’s many resorts. The shoulder seasons can also be great times to book vacation rentals due to the dramatic autumn hues in the fall, vibrant blossoms in the spring, and mild temperatures that invite hiking through the area’s vast evergreen forests.

Kouchibouguac National Park

Located on the Acadian Coast, the Kouchibouguac National Park is home to lush forests, salt marshlands, and beaches. The saltwater lagoon that runs through the park is an excellent place to kayak or canoe, and you might even spot members of the resident colony of gray seals. There are nearly 40 miles of trails that you can hike or mountain bike on, with difficulty levels ranging from novice to expert. An interpretive Mi’kmaq wigwam provides opportunities to learn about the Indigenous peoples who originally called this region home, a connection that the park is committed to preserving. During winter, the trails are open to cross-country skiers and snowboarders.

Fredericton

The provincial capital of Fredericton is a lively cultural center on the Saint John River. The historic Garrison District has an outdoor theater, art studios, and night markets — and the highest concentration of breweries in eastern Canada. You’ll also find eye-catching murals on Queen Street, along with the Fredericton Region Museum, where you can learn about the area’s history from its original First Nation residents to the present.

Hopewell Rocks

This collection of water-eroded rock formations along the vast Bay of Fundy is uncovered at low tide. Head into Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park to explore sea caves, tidal pools, and waterfalls and watch sea life on the exposed ocean floor. With several miles of trail systems in the surrounding park, there are plenty of scenic hiking and cycling opportunities.