10 of the Best Places to Hike and Swim in Atlantic Canada

Atlantic Canada, encompassing the provinces of Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick, is a breathtaking region known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities. From rugged coastlines to lush forests, this region offers a myriad of opportunities for hiking and swimming enthusiasts. In this blog, we will explore ten of the best places to hike and swim in Atlantic Canada, allowing you to experience the region's stunning landscapes while enjoying refreshing dips in its pristine waters.

1. Cape Chignecto Provincial Park, Nova Scotia: Located on the Bay of Fundy, Cape Chignecto Provincial Park boasts magnificent coastal cliffs, rugged trails, and panoramic views. Hike along the Coastal Trail, which offers a challenging but rewarding experience, and then cool off with a swim in the refreshing waters of Advocate Beach.

2. Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gros Morne National Park is a hiker's paradise. With its diverse terrain, including fjords, forests, and mountains, this park offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. After exploring the trails, take a dip in the tranquil waters of Western Brook Pond or Norris Point Pond.

3. Fundy National Park, New Brunswick: Situated along the Bay of Fundy, Fundy National Park is known for its dramatic tides, rugged coastline, and lush forests. The park features a network of scenic trails, such as the Dickson Falls Trail and the Laverty Falls Trail. Once you've worked up a sweat, head to Herring Cove Beach or Bennett Lake for a refreshing swim.

4. Cape Enrage, New Brunswick: Cape Enrage offers a unique coastal hiking experience with its towering cliffs and breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy. Explore the Cape Enrage Nature Preserve's trails, and if you're feeling adventurous, try rappelling or ziplining. Afterward, cool off at Hopewell Rocks, where you can swim during low tide.

5. Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia: Covering a significant portion of Cape Breton Island, Cape Breton Highlands National Park showcases stunning coastal scenery and rolling mountains. Choose from an array of hiking trails, including the popular Skyline Trail, and then unwind with a swim at Ingonish Beach or Black Brook Beach.

6. Kejimkujik National Park, Nova Scotia: A designated Dark Sky Preserve and a National Historic Site, Kejimkujik National Park offers a blend of nature and cultural heritage. Hike through the park's diverse ecosystems, including forests and lakes, and afterward, take a dip in the crystal-clear waters of Kejimkujik Lake or Jeremy's Bay.

7. Brackley Beach, Prince Edward Island: Located within Prince Edward Island National Park, Brackley Beach is known for its pristine sandy shores and warm waters. After exploring the park's trails, relax on the beach or go for a swim in the gentle waves of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.

8. East Coast Trail, Newfoundland and Labrador: Stretching along the rugged eastern coastline of Newfoundland, the East Coast Trail offers over 300 kilometers of stunning hiking trails. Experience breathtaking coastal vistas, majestic cliffs, and hidden coves along the trail, and take a refreshing dip in one of the many scenic swimming spots along the way.

9. Cape Forchu Lighthouse, Nova Scotia: Situated near Yarmouth, Cape Forchu Lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the Lighthouse Trail and the surrounding rugged coastline, and then enjoy a swim at one of the nearby beaches, such as Ellenwood Lake Provincial Park or Port Maitland Beach.

10. Gros Cap Recreation Park, New Brunswick: Located near Bathurst, Gros Cap Recreation Park offers a picturesque setting for hiking and swimming. Traverse the park's scenic trails that wind through forests and along the coastline, providing stunning views of the Bay of Chaleur. After your hike, cool off with a swim at one of the park's sandy beaches or take a dip in the refreshing waters of Bathurst Harbour.

Atlantic Canada is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wealth of hiking and swimming opportunities. From the rugged coastlines of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland to the serene beaches of Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, the region's natural beauty beckons adventure seekers. Whether you prefer challenging hikes with rewarding views or leisurely strolls through picturesque landscapes, there is something for everyone in Atlantic Canada. So, pack your hiking boots, swimsuit, and sense of adventure, and explore these ten incredible places that combine the thrill of hiking with the refreshing joy of swimming. Get ready to immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and experience the best of what Atlantic Canada has to offer.

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