Walking On The Ocean Floor Is A Daily Event In New Brunswick

It’s difficult to comprehend that a mere 6-hours can so dramatically change a picturesque vista such as the one at Hopewell Rocks in Hillsborough, New Brunswick. This ‘Marine Wonder of the World’ is one of those attractions where you must make a repeat visit several hours later.

The gravitational pull of the sun and moon causes the Bay of Fundy tides to rise and fall an incredible 14 m (48 ft) and higher twice a day – every day! Tides are higher during a full moon. Visitors have a 2-3 hour window before and after low tide when they can literally walk on the ocean floor four stories below. Return at high tide and you will need a kayak to follow the same route.

At Hopewell Rocks the powerful Bay of Fundy tides have literally carved massive columns of rock wearing gnarled evergreens that resemble ‘wigs’. These natural sculptures are nicknamed the "flowerpot rocks" but at high tide they resemble many tiny ‘islands’.

Hopewell Rocks Interpretive Centre helps to unravel the mysteries of the ancient geology and powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy. A shuttle transports visitors from the Centre to a steep stairway leading to the ocean floor - handicap access is also accessible.

It is an awesome experience to walk on the sand amongst these amazing rocky columns, caves, arches and many crevices. Another plus is to watch numerous birds feast on the decadent treasures the ocean waters leave behind. Although there is a low fee to enter the park that is open mid May to mid October, it is an attraction not to be missed.

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