Let's Go Play Outside
Welsford Falls, Lower Saint John River Valley

Hiking near Saint John

Pick your drive. Save time for the trail.

22 trails within 2 hr of Saint John by car. Compare the drive, the walking time and the level to choose your next outing.

Photo : Welsford Falls

Maximum one-way drive
With my dog

Drive times are estimates (≈) from the city centre, as the crow flies. Walking time comes from the trail page when it has one; a walking filter hides trails without a duration.

Hiking ideas near Saint John

See all trails
Rockwood Park trail - hiking in Southwest NB

Drive ≈ 5 min Walk 3 hr 15 min

Rockwood Park

One of Canada's largest urban parks, this 11 km network with 100 m elevation gain sits in the heart of Saint John, New Brunswick.

Dog rules: check the trail page

See the trail

Trails near Saint John

8 trails shown out of 22
Reversing Falls trail - hiking in Southwest NB

A half-day outing takes a little planning.

Think about the way back, the breaks and the parking.

  • Check access

    Opening hours, parking and access conditions can change with the season.

  • Check the weather at the destination

    Changing weather can make some trails harder.

  • Choose your route

    Match the length and the level to your group and the time you have.

No car?

Without a car, an outing takes more planning. Some destinations near Saint John may be served by public transit, but none of our trail pages lists it yet.

Check schedules and the last return trip with the transit agency before you go.

See the frequently asked questions

Through the seasons

Spring

Spring hiking in Saint John brings mild temperatures and muddy trails as snow melts from March to May.

Read more

The city's coastal trails offer excellent views of the Bay of Fundy, though waterproof boots are essential due to wet conditions. Start with shorter urban trails and gradually explore longer routes as weather stabilizes in late May.

Summer

Summer is prime hiking season around Saint John with warm temperatures and long daylight hours from June to August.

Read more

The famous Bay of Fundy tides create unique hiking opportunities, especially at low tide when you can explore the ocean floor. Pack plenty of water and sun protection, and plan around tide schedules for coastal trail access.

Fall

Fall transforms Saint John's hiking trails with spectacular autumn foliage from September to November, making it one of the most scenic seasons.

Read more

Cooler temperatures provide comfortable hiking conditions, but daylight hours decrease rapidly. Layer clothing for temperature changes and check trail conditions as wet leaves can create slippery surfaces.

Winter

Winter hiking near Saint John requires proper preparation with temperatures often below freezing and potential for snow and ice from December to February.

Read more

Microspikes or snowshoes may be necessary depending on trail conditions and snowfall. Choose well-maintained urban trails and always inform someone of your hiking plans due to shorter daylight hours.

Frequently asked questions

Where can you hike near Saint John?

You can hike at 17 different trails near Saint John, including popular spots like Reversing Falls (2.6km), Rockwood Park (3.4km), and Irving Nature Park (7.5km). Other excellent hiking destinations include Welsford Falls (29.4km away) and New River Beach Provincial Park (39.6km away).

What are the best hiking trails near Saint John?

The best hiking trails near Saint John include Reversing Falls at 2.6km, Rockwood Park at 3.4km, and Irving Nature Park at 7.5km from the city. For longer adventures, Welsford Falls (29.4km away) and Roosevelt Campobello International Park (83.1km away) offer spectacular hiking experiences.

How many hiking trails are there near Saint John?

There are 22 hiking trails available near Saint John, New Brunswick. These trails range from close options like Reversing Falls and Rockwood Park to destinations up to 94km away like Woolastook Park.

What parks offer hiking trails near Saint John?

Several parks offer hiking trails near Saint John, including Irving Nature Park (7.5km), New River Beach Provincial Park (39.6km), and Valleyview Provincial Park (73.8km away). You can also explore Roosevelt Campobello International Park (83.1km) and Cape Chignecto Provincial Park (91.6km) for more extensive hiking options.

Are there easy hiking trails near Saint John?

Yes, there are several accessible hiking options near Saint John, with close trails like Reversing Falls (2.6km), Rockwood Park (3.4km), and Irving Nature Park (7.5km) from the city. Odell Park (89.3km away) also provides hiking opportunities for various skill levels.

What is the best season for hiking near Saint John?

The best seasons for hiking near Saint John are late spring through early fall (May to October) when weather conditions are most favorable and trails are accessible. Summer months offer the warmest temperatures and longest daylight hours for exploring the 17 available trails in the region.

Good ideas, ready to go.

Free guide: 25 hikes under 2 hours from Montreal

Distance, elevation, parking and season for each one. The ones we go back to ourselves.

Get the guide