Nova Scotia’s Cliffs of Fundy Named UNESCO Global Geopark

Located on the north shore of the Minas Basin in Atlantic Canada’s beautiful Province of Nova Scotia, the magnificent Cliffs of Fundy has been designated a UNESCO Global Geopark. Recognised for its international geological significance, the announcement was made this month along with 14 other new Global Geoparks.

The Cliffs of Fundy has, until now, been somewhat of a hidden gem in Nova Scotia’s nature-rich crown.  Home to Canada’s oldest dinosaur fossils, the new UNESCO Global Geopark has been shaped by over 300 million years of history and is the only place on earth where geologists can see both the assembly of the supercontinent Pangea and how it broke up 200 million years ago.

The powerful forces of The Bay of Fundy have created an incredible landscape and coastline which have become a hiker’s paradise and for those who are at home on the seas, there are plenty of water-based activities to suit.  In addition, the area is home to the, Mi’kmaq people an important aspect of the Cliffs of Fundy’s cultural geoheritage, and the area’s first geologists some 13,000 years ago.

Here are some ways to explore this hidden gem in Nova Scotia once borders reopen.

Hike into the wild

The Cliffs of Fundy Geopark spans from the Portapique River to the Apple River, harbouring an array of trails to choose from, including Cape Chignecto Provincial Park, Five Islands Provincial Park, Thomas’ Cove Coastal trails and the Wards Falls trail. Hikers can explore the stunning landscapes and take in panoramic views, as well as get a glimpse of local wildlife and migrating birds. Whilst walking in the footsteps of the dinosaurs, visitors can also discover various geosites presenting layered records of evolution along the trails.

Kayak in waters home to the highest tides of the world

Kayakers can paddle along the dramatic shoreline of the Bay of Fundy, passing the legendary Three Sisters sea stack, towering conglomerate cliffs, coastal caves, waterfalls, and more majestic formations that peel back layers of geological history. Whilst on the waves, paddlers can spot sea birds like black guillemots and bald eagles, or even float with the seals by the tranquil bay of Seal Cove. Those who are more adventurous can go for an additional hiking trip and spend a night beach camping to make for a longer expedition. Tours with NovaShores Adventures range from day tours to three-day tours, prices start from £75 per person.

Sail along the dramatic coastline

For those who don’t fancy paddling, travellers can take a boat tour and visit some of the most awe-inspiring places in the Bay of Fundy. Sailing along the world’s highest tides, the voyages get up close to the seal colony in Isle Haute and incredible geological formations in Cape Split. Advocate Boat Tours start from £46.