The drive into Kouchibouguac National Park is underwhelming. Trees line either side of the road and block any views to the coast. You might be wondering why you’ve even bothered to come. But don’t despair, because once you’re on a bike the charm, of the 238 square kilometre park becomes apparent. Kouchibouguac National Park is in fact, considered to be one of the best cycling destinations in all of Atlantic Canada.
The word Kouchibouguac means River of Long Tides in Mi’kmaq. You will discover just what this looks like as you bike along Kouchibouguac River. Explore salt marshes and bogs as you loop through the park on 60 km (37 mi) of trails. Stop to admire fields of wildflowers and listen for birdsong in the woods.
Useful information for visiting and biking in Kouchibouguac National Park
- You will need a park permit to visit. Park entrance fees are $7.80/adult and $3.90 /youth.
- The bike trails are easy and family friendly.
- The entrance to the park is 113 km north of Moncton and 57 km southeast of Miramichi.
- You need a half day to a full day depending on how far you want to bike and how much beach time you want.
- Bike in Kouchibouguac National Park from May through to October.
- Bring your own bike or rent a no speed bike from Ryan’s Rental Center in the park. Onsite bike rentals are $8/hr, $25/4 hr and $50/day.
- Bike locks aren’t provided. Bring your own if you want you want worry free time on the beach.
- Food choices in the park are minimal so buy picnic supplies ahead of time.
- There are 10 nature trails ranging from 0.9 km (0.6 mi) to 11.3 km (7.0 mi) to hike.
- Canoeing is another excellent option for exploring the park. Rent canoes at Ryans, book one of two backcountry spots and then head out to explore.
For more information on Kouchibouguac National Park visit the Parks Canada website.
Where to start biking in Kouchibouguac National Park
At Ryans Rental Centre – rent a bike without any gears and load up on water.
Ryans is also a good a place to begin exploring the park by bike. From the rental shop you have a choice. Either follow the coast towards the Salt Marsh or head in the other direction along the south shore of the Kouchibouguac River. There’s no right or wrong but if you follow the coast then you really should plan a stop just 2 km after starting. There is a beautiful 1.2 km boardwalk that takes you to Kelly’s Beach but you must leave your bike behind.
This is a great place to swim and relax – and as such, might make a better stop towards the end of the day. Or you might not get any further than this.
Biking options in Koughibouguac National Park
From the boardwalk, the bike path heads towards the Salt Marsh and Callanders Beach before heading away from the water into the woods. Several short nature trails offer further diversions. Continue through the woods until you reach one of the many well-signed intersections.
There are short cuts back to Ryans through the interior of the park but if you have the time and the energy, it’s worth continuing across the Kouchibouguac River.
Once you’re on the other side of the river, you have the option to bike alongside it until it empties at the lagoon. Or plan on a longer ride and bike a further 16.9 km one way to Pointe-Sapin through the woods and across the Black River.
To return to Ryans, you’ll have to retrace your route to the river and continue along the south shore of the river to complete the loop.
Biking through Kouchibouguac is an enjoyable way to spend a day – though you may not get very far with all the possible diversions. Don’t forget to pick up a free park map at the park entrance to help you plan your day.
Further reading on things to do in New Brunswick
- A Visit to Grand Manan Island, New Brunswick
- Sagamook Peak Hike, Mount Carleton Provincial Park
- 12 Stops for a Memorable Road trip through Acadian New Brunswick
- Fundy Footpath Hike in New Brunswick: A Full Guide
- Glamping in New Brunswick at Broadleaf Ranch
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