Hopewell Rocks: Walk Ocean Floor & Bay of Fundy Tides Entry

Summary

Walk between sculpted rocks as tides rise and fall at Hopewell

You’ll walk between giant rock towers on the Bay of Fundy’s ocean floor, feel salt air on your skin, and hear stories from local guides about tides that swallow whole beaches twice daily. Includes two-day entry so you can catch both high and low tide moods — trust me, they’re nothing alike.

What’s the experience like?

We’d already missed the first high tide by the time we got to Hopewell Rocks, but honestly, that made it better — fewer people around, just the slap of muddy water against those wild flowerpot shapes. Our guide, Marie, waved us down from the lookout (“You’ll want to see this up close!”), so we scrambled down the stairs. The air smelled like seaweed and wet stone. I touched one of those massive pillars and it was colder than I expected — almost slimy with salt. Marie told us how these rocks get swallowed up twice a day by the highest tides in the world. I tried picturing it but couldn’t really until she pointed out a line way above my head: “That’s where you’ll stand in five hours if you come back.” Felt weirdly humbling.

Walking on the ocean floor is stranger than it sounds — your boots sink a little with every step and there’s this soft hush, like everyone’s tiptoeing not to wake something ancient. A couple from Moncton laughed when I nearly lost a shoe in the mud (they said it happens). There are trails winding through spruce trees above too, with little lookouts where you can just stop and listen to gulls or watch kayakers drift between rocks at high tide. We ducked into the visitor center for coffee and ended up watching this old video about how fast the water comes back — honestly, kind of scary but also makes you want to stay and see it for yourself.

I didn’t expect to care about tide charts but now I get why people check them obsessively before coming here. If you’re planning a day trip to Hopewell Rocks from Moncton or anywhere near Fundy, try to time it so you catch both high and low tide — they really are different worlds. My jeans still smell faintly briny from sitting on a rock ledge watching water creep back in. Not sure why that sticks with me.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Hopewell Rocks and surroundings

• Visit multi-media exhibit
• Walk scenic trails and lookouts
• Join informative walking tours
• Walk on ocean floor at low tide
• Observe towering rock formations
• Experience high tide views
• Kayak around rock formations
• Explore nearby parks and attractions

Top questions

How long should I spend at Hopewell Rocks?

Most travelers spend 2-4 hours to see both high and low tides; your ticket covers two consecutive days.

Can I walk on the ocean floor at Hopewell Rocks?

Yes, during low tide you can walk directly on the ocean floor among rock formations.

Is there a guided walking tour included?

Yes, informative walking tours are offered at specific times daily with your admission.

Are Hopewell Rocks wheelchair accessible?

The park is wheelchair accessible; some trails may be challenging depending on conditions.

What else is near Hopewell Rocks?

Nearby attractions include Fundy National Park, Cape Enrage, Mary’s Point Bird Sanctuary, covered bridges, artisan shops, museums, beaches, lighthouses, waterfalls, biking and hiking trails.

Is kayaking available at Hopewell Rocks?

Yes, Baymount Outdoor Adventures offers kayaking around rock formations during high tide.

What should I wear for visiting Hopewell Rocks?

Dress for variable weather and wear shoes suitable for mud; conditions change quickly due to tides.

Is transportation included in my ticket?

No transportation is included; admission covers entry and walking tours only.

What’s included

Your admission includes two consecutive days’ entry to Hopewell Rocks Park along the Bay of Fundy plus daily scheduled walking tours led by local guides. GST is covered too — just dress for whatever weather New Brunswick throws at you because they run rain or shine.