When the River Turns: Chasing the Reversing Falls of Saint John
Watch the Saint John River answer the Bay of Fundy—twice a day the tide turns the current on its head.
If you arrive at the Reversing Falls on a bright summer morning, the first thing you’ll notice isn’t the roar—it’s the impatience of the water. The Saint John River, having spent the day flowing quietly toward the Bay of Fundy, meets a rocky throat of hard red shale and a tidal juggernaut that arrives on its own schedule. For a few minutes to an hour, depending on the tide, the river yields. The ocean pushes back. The current spins, froths, and briefly reverses direction with an energy that feels almost theatrical: water that had been politely heading out to sea now answers like a seasoned actor, pivoting mid-performance to face the shore.
Trail Wisdom
Time it with the tide
Arrive 45–90 minutes before high tide to watch the buildup and the reversal—check local tide charts beforehand.
Dress for spray and wind
A light waterproof shell and layered clothing will keep you comfortable on exposed viewpoints and on boat tours.
Respect safety barriers
Strong, unpredictable currents make the water extremely dangerous—observe fences, signs, and keep pets and kids close.
Choose the right experience
Boat tours offer proximity and commentary; guided kayak trips are for experienced paddlers only—book accordingly.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •The low cliff trail north of the bridge offers quieter vantage points and sunset views
- •Combine a morning tide-watch with a visit to Saint John City Market for fresh seafood and local crafts
Wildlife
harbor seals, migratory shorebirds such as sandpipers
Conservation Note
Operators and local authorities emphasize staying on paths and reducing shoreline litter; support licensed guides who follow strict safety and environmental practices.
The tidal interactions at the Reversing Falls have shaped local navigation and industry for centuries; Indigenous Wolastoqiyik and Mi'kmaq communities knew these waters long before colonial maps.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: stormy, dramatic tides, fewer crowds, wild migratory birds
Challenges: cooler temperatures, variable weather, shorter daylight
Spring brings powerful tides and dramatic water movement; dress warmly and expect changeable weather.
summer
Best for: boat tours and accessibility, mild weather, combining with other Bay of Fundy trips
Challenges: crowds at peak times, higher summer prices, intense midday sun
Summer is the easiest window for tours and walking access—arrive early to avoid crowds and midday glare.
fall
Best for: crisp air and light, fewer tourists, fall colors in nearby parks
Challenges: cooling temperatures, shorter days, spotty tour schedules late season
Fall pairs great viewing light and cooler temperatures with fewer visitors—September often feels ideal.
winter
Best for: quiet viewpoints, unique icy scenery, photography of frozen shorelines
Challenges: icy trails and limited tour operations, cold winds, reduced services
Winter scenes are stark and beautiful but access can be icy; most boat tours don't operate year-round.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Waterproof jacketEssential
Blocks spray and wind on viewpoints and boat decks.
Sturdy walking shoesEssential
Provide traction on wet or uneven viewing paths.
Tide chart or downloaded tide appEssential
Essential for timing your visit to coincide with the reversal.
Mid-range zoom lens or wide-angle
Helps capture both sweeping scenes and the whirlpools up close.
Common Questions
When is the best time to see the reversal at Reversing Falls?
Plan to arrive 45–90 minutes before high tide—this covers the buildup and the main reversal window; local tide charts and marina bulletins provide exact times.
Are there boat tours that go into the rapids?
Yes, licensed local operators run harbor and river tours timed around safe tidal windows; these typically last 45–90 minutes and include safety briefings.
Can I kayak through the Reversing Falls?
Only experienced paddlers with a certified guide should attempt to kayak near the falls; currents and eddies are hazardous and conditions change with the tide.
Is the area wheelchair accessible?
Many viewing platforms and nearby paths are paved and accessible, but some cliffside viewpoints have steps—check with Parks or local info centers for specifics.
Are there facilities or food near the falls?
There are cafés and restaurants in nearby Saint John, and the historic City Market is a short drive away for local seafood and provisions.
How close can I get to the water?
Stay behind safety railings and signage—the currents are unpredictable and dangerous; there are designated viewing areas for safe observation.
What to Pack
waterproof jacket (spray and wind protection), sturdy walking shoes (wet surfaces), tide chart/app (timing), camera with lens cloth (spray and photo ops)
Did You Know
The Reversing Falls exist because of the Bay of Fundy’s extreme tides—the bay has some of the highest tidal ranges in the world, exceeding 15 meters (about 50 feet) in places, which forces the ocean to push upriver twice a day.
Quick Travel Tips
Check tide times before you go; arrive early for best views; book boat tours in advance in summer; carry cash for small vendors.
Local Flavor
Saint John mixes maritime grit with a thriving local food scene—sample fresh lobster and scallops, visit the century-old City Market, and drop into small breweries showcasing New Brunswick hops.
Logistics Snapshot
Access: short walks from roadside parking and bridge viewpoints; Tours: seasonal boat and kayak operators run trips spring–fall; Safety: stay behind railings and never enter the water; Nearest airport: Saint John (YSJ) roughly 10–15 minutes by car.
Sustainability Note
Choose licensed guides, avoid single-use plastics, stay on designated paths to protect shoreline habitat, and dispose of waste in town to keep the river and bay healthy.