Experience the Outdoors: Fall Activities in Edmundston, NB
Nestled in the northeastern section of the Appalachian Mountains, where the Saint John and Madawaska Rivers meet, is Edmundston, New Brunswick. This prospering and sustainable city is also the first Atlantic Canadian municipality that most visitors will encounter when crossing the land border from Quebec. The province of New Brunswick is well-known for its fall festivals, farmer’s markets, and U‑Picks. Edmundston plays an important role in this reputation, offering those who enjoy the outdoors a wealth of sights and activities to experience.
Though the summer can be humid here, stopping over in the fall will provide cool, yet comfortable temperatures for your outdoor excursions. Whether you enjoy biking, sightseeing, or some activity in-between, Edmundston has experiences and landmarks awaiting your visit.
Take in Beautiful Fall Colors at the New Brunswick Botanical Garden
Whether you visit before or after a day filled with other activities, the New Brunswick Botanical Garden will offer visitors a serene environment that feels like an escape from reality. Visible from the entrance to the St-Jacques district, next to the highway — exit 8 — this landmark sits on seven hectares of land and features more than 80,000 plants, easily making it the largest arboretum east of Montreal. As the season changes to fall, visitors will admire the changing colors of the plants here. For those interested in learning more about these organisms, this botanical garden also offers interactive workshops that teach about the cosmetic, therapeutic, and culinary benefits of herbal plants. If you prefer to take your visit at your own pace, you can do that too. Consider taking a moment to listen to the flowing waters of the Flowery Brook or take a rest under the all-natural roof of the Shade Garden.
Time your visit with the annual fall celebration, otherwise known as La Grande Grouille. Located on the site of the New Brunswick Botanical Garden at the start of October, this event was first started to extend the season for the property. Ten years later and counting, this event now attracts many visitors excited to witness the display of thousands of carved, lit pumpkins, fluorescent flowers, colorful skeletons, and more!
Bike Through Petit Témis Interprovincial Linear Park
For those looking to take their bikes for a spin, Edmundston trails have something for beginners, experienced riders, and everyone in-between. Though, Petit Témis Interprovincial Linear Park is ideal for those looking for a leisurely ride with minimal inclines and some spectacular views. The biking path here is the first one in Canada to cross interprovincial lines, connecting Quebec and New Brunswick.
Whether you decide to bike the entire 134-kilometer journey between New Brunswick and Quebec, or vice versa, be sure to admire some Edmundston landmarks along the way. As you pass through the city, you will encounter the New Brunswick Botanical Garden, Edmundston Marina, and other significant sights.
Get Your Adrenaline Pumping at the Madawaska Trail Network
At just a 2‑minute drive from downtown Edmundston, the Madawaska Trail Network offers up mountain biking experiences for beginners, intermediates, and expert riders. The most extensive of all Edmundston bike trails, this one measures 60-kilometers of single-track route. With a total descent of 1589 meters, this experience has the potential to get your adrenaline pumping.
As the only route to be designated a signature trail in New Brunswick, Madawaska also meets the standards of the International Mountain Biking Association of Canada.
Admire Nature’s Creation at Fall Brook Falls
When looking for things to do in Edmundston, no trip should be complete without a visit to Fall Brook Falls. This natural landmark will leave visitors awe-inspired for reasons beyond its beauty. At 100 FT high, this is the tallest single-drop waterfall in New Brunswick, with water flowing over its edge during all four seasons of the year. For visitors willing to brave colder waters in the fall, take a dip in the large pool at the bottom of the waterfall. Floating on your back provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape and crashing water above.
But that’s not all. Access to the trail is gained by walking towards the Miramichi River, along streams and a short trail, offering visitors even more opportunity to enjoy the tranquil environment.
Inspired by Edmundston? Continue your journey through New Brunswick by visiting these stunning attractions.
Special thanks to the staff at the Comfort Inn, Edmundston, NB for their suggestions.