The next day, with Ladybug all stocked up, we set off to our next destination travelling through the northeast of New Brunswick.
We were actually a little concerned about these next two stops because we didn’t really research these parks as much as we typically do. We sure got lucky as they wound up being spectacular as good fortune continued to be on our side.
The first took us off along the historic Acadia Coastal Trail which weaves along the coast of New Brunswick for some 750 km (466 miles). It celebrates the heart of Acadian culture which still thrives in this region. There’s a new discovery around every corner as you pass sandy beaches, green forests, coastal isles and charming towns like Shediac and Boutouche (the former featuring the largest lobster in the world) and the cities of Moncton and Dieppe.
After travelling through long swaths of farm lands, we arrived at Murray Beach Provincial Park. This place was awesome and our site was located right at the beach with miles of the Northumberland Strait in front of us, and the province of Prince Edward Island and the Confederation Bridge off in the distance. That night we witnessed one of the prettiest sunsets on our trip.
Our next stop took us to one of Canada’s most picturesque parks, Kouchibouguac (Koo-she-boo-gwack) National Park. Kouchibougwac is a Mi’kmaq word meaning river of “long tides.” Celebrating its rich indigenous cultural ties, the park features 26 known aboriginal archaeologicaL sites.
The park is mostly forest, but also has stunning 500 year-old peat bogs, salt marshes, and barrier islands. These barrier islands feature sand dunes stretching over 25 kms which provide important protection to the many estuaries, salt marshes and lagoons in this intensely dynamic environment.
One of the highlights for Bernadette and I was taking a stroll to Kelly’s Beach on one of the barrier islands. Just getting to this white, sandy beach was spectacular. It begins at a super snack bar that has some of the best poutine you will ever taste. Smart hikers always stop to share a plate.
Then you proceed across a beautifully constructed wooden walkway that stretches across the Kouchibougwac River. As this river is connected to the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the tides change throughout the day and walking over the bridge gives you incredible insights into the plants and marine critters that thrive in this special place. Just make sure to hold onto your hats as the ocean winds pick up dramatically about the halfway point.
Bernadette and I walked the beach in one direction for almost an hour and still there seemed to be miles of beach ahead of us. The waves, the wind, the towering dunes and the sweet smell of the ocean puts you in a different mindset. You can’t help but appreciate the beauty surrounding you and the beauty walking beside you. We did this hike two days in a row. Kouchibouguac was a special place in many ways and both of these parks were important reminders of how blessed we are to live in a country like Canada. Especially spending time visiting our Provincial and National Parks.