Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
The Bay of Fundy Ecosystem spans the coasts of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia in Canada and parts of Maine in the United States, encompassing one of the world’s highest tidal ranges—reaching up to 16 meters (over 50 feet). This vast marine environment includes diverse habitats such as salt marshes, mudflats, rocky shores, coastal forests, and estuaries. These habitats support rich biodiversity including globally significant populations of migratory shorebirds, whales such as the endangered North Atlantic right whale, seals, and numerous fish species. Historically, the area has been inhabited by the Mi'kmaq and Passamaquoddy peoples, whose cultures remain connected to the land and sea.
Visitors to the Bay of Fundy experience a range of outdoor activities such as whale watching, kayaking, hiking along coastal trails, birdwatching at migratory hotspots, and exploring geological formations like the Hopewell Rocks with their iconic flowerpot formations. The ecosystem supports several protected areas including national parks, wildlife refuges, and wild rivers, preserving its ecological importance. Notable landmarks include Fundy National Park in New Brunswick and parts of the Fundy Coastal Drive. Seasonal phenomena like the tidal bore on rivers feeding into the bay attract paddlers and photographers alike. The complex interaction of ocean tides and coastal geography creates dynamic seascapes and abundant marine life, making the Bay of Fundy Ecosystem a world-class destination for nature lovers and outdoor recreation enthusiasts.
