~ CLOSED ~ Safely Hiking New Brunswick’s Fundy Coastline {$750 #WoodsExplorer Giveaway}

My family and I love to get out at least a couple of times each year and enjoy the rugged beauty of Canada’s majestic Fundy shoreline.

We are fortunate to live in relative proximity to many provincial parks, as well as Fundy National Park, Fundy Trail, Cape Enrage and the Fundy Footpath.

Hiking is one of the most popular activities in Fundy National Park and with over 100 kilometers of trails, your favorite beach, river valley, or waterfall is just waiting to be discovered! Fundy’s trails range from an easy half-kilometer loop to a demanding 50-kilometer circuit around the park.

I snapped this photo of my hubby, son and daughter hiking the Laverty Falls Trail at Fundy National Park.

Gorgeous Dickson Falls in Fundy National Park

Hugging cliff tops above the world’s highest tides, the Fundy Trail winds its way along one of the last remaining coastal wilderness areas between Florida and Labrador. The area is the breeding habitat for Right Whales and is one of he best places in the world for viewing marine and wildlife.

A pretty spot to stop while on the Fundy Trail.

Cape Enrage is under the umbrella of the UNESCO Fundy Biosphere Reserve in New Brunswick. It is a rocky headland jutting seven and a half kilometers out into the uppermost Bay of Fundy and offers one of the most phenomenal views of the Bay. Cape Enrage gets its name from the bay-funneled winds that often strike the cape full force.

Rappelers at Cape Enrage.

The Fundy Footpath is a challenging 41 km (24 miles) continuous wilderness trail. The rugged Fundy terrain leads up and down from an elevation of 0 to 300 metres across a dozen ravines. This is a wilderness trail and at certain points there are no residences within 15 miles.

Sunrise on a portion of the breathtaking Fundy Footpath.

While absolutely breathtaking, the fundy coastline is also unforgiving and needs to be respected. You need to exercise caution and plan for a variety of situations, especially on a longer hike.

In fact, just last week, two hikers needed to be rescued from a rockface on the Fundy Footpath after being stranded there overnight. The rescue, which was initially hampered by the tide coming in, nightfall and heavy fog, involved the use of a Cormorant helicopter and all-terrain vehicles.

Remember, you must be prepared for a variety of situations:

The trail systems that I have mentioned, vary from a quick and easy fifteen-minute walk to a very challenging three to four-day hike and everything in between.

Obviously, you will need greater knowledge and more supplies on a longer hike. Use your common sense, however, if in doubt, it is better to bring something you may not need than to need something you did not bring.

• Know your physical limits; the fundy coastline’s wilderness is famous for its rugged cliffs and river valleys.
• Pack for comfort and safety:
  • At the very least, a sweater or windbreaker are good insurance against variable weather. You should be wearing footwear with good traction and support. Pack fresh water and a snack, even if you’re planning a short hike.
  • For longer hikes, in addition to what is already mentioned, some items you should consider bringing are:
    • Flashlight with spare batteries and bulb.
    • Fire-making kit – waterproof matches/ lighter, fire starter/candle
    • Signaling device – whistle or mirror
    • Extra food and water (1 litre/person)
    • Emergency shelter
    • Extra clothing (rain, wind, water protection and toque)
    • First Aid kit
    • Pocket knife
    • Navigation/communication aids
• Plan your route and stick to it. Let someone know where you plan on hiking and your estimated time of return.
• For your own safety and to preserve the ecological integrity of the parks, stay on marked trails.
• Leave no trace! Carry out all garbage, yours and any you may find on the trail.

You will also need a reliable backpack to carry your supplies, such as the Woods™ Convoy Backpack featuring: 

• Internal aluminum frame that provides lightweight support for extended hiking
• Dual ergonomic hip belt with pull forward design for quick adjustment
• Detachable daypack for versatility and convenience
• Integrated rainfly protects pack during wet weather
• Made from 210-denier double rip-stop nylon/600-denier polyester fabric
• Capacity: 60 L (15.85 gal)
• Dimensions: 30 x 16 x 14″ (76 x 41 x 36 cm)

Canada, and all it’s splendour is out there. It’s over there, past that, and just over that hill. Woods outdoor equipment, it always has your back.

Hiking isn’t typically dangerous, just remember that wherever you go, be it a short hike or a multi-day trek, put safety first!

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Be sure to share all your hiking fun using the hashtag #WoodsExplorer

You can also follow the #WoodsExplorer teams as they trek the Trans Canada Trail!

To help you tackle your own hiking challenges, Woods Canada and Canadian Tire are offering a fabulous giveaway!

One lucky reader will win a Woods™ hiking/camping gear prize package worth approximately $750!

{*Please note:  This giveaway will appear across a number of participating blogs and one winner will be selected from all eligible entries.}

Hiking and Camping Contest Giveaway