Places to Walk in Saint John

Looking to stretch your legs and soak in some coastal beauty? This guide to the best places to walk in Saint John, New Brunswick will take you through scenic waterfront paths, quiet forest loops, and family-friendly trails that anyone can enjoy. Whether you’re after ocean views, wildlife spotting, or a peaceful city stroll, Saint John offers walking spots for every pace and preference.

Why Saint John is Perfect for Walkers

Saint John offers a walking experience unlike anywhere else in Canada. Nestled on the Bay of Fundy, the city enjoys a mild coastal climate and some of the world’s most dramatic tides—making every visit feel a little different. There's a rich blend of natural beauty, urban charm, and wildlife to take in. Best of all, many trails are well-maintained, clearly marked, and accessible for all fitness levels. Families, pet owners, and casual strollers alike will find Saint John a welcoming place to walk and unwind.

Urban & Waterfront Walks

Saint John’s urban and waterfront trails offer the perfect blend of convenience, scenery, and charm. Whether you're stepping out from downtown or parking near a park, these accessible paths provide relaxing strolls for all ages and abilities.

Harbour Passage Trail

This 5.5 km paved trail winds along Saint John’s vibrant waterfront, linking Uptown with the iconic Reversing Falls. With its smooth surface, the trail is wheelchair-accessible and ideal for families, joggers, or those simply out for a scenic stroll.

Lake Lily Trail (Rockwood Park)

Tucked inside the heart of Rockwood Park, this easy 1.8 km loop wraps around tranquil Lily Lake. Benches invite walkers to pause and watch the ducks, while interpretive signs highlight native tree species.

Children’s Forest & Playground Area

Just inside the Irving Nature Park entrance, this short, walkable loop is ideal for families with young children. Featuring picnic shelters, playground equipment, and two whimsical cedar mazes, it's a great spot for a casual stroll that doubles as a play break.

Nature Walks Within the City

Saint John isn’t just a coastal destination—it’s also home to some of the most immersive natural spaces right within city limits. These walks offer peaceful escapes into forests, lakesides, and quiet preserves, all without the need to travel far.

Rockwood Park Trails

Spanning more than 2,200 acres in the heart of the city, Rockwood Park offers over 50 km of all-season walking trails. Whether you’re wandering past lakes and waterfalls, discovering unique rock formations, or simply strolling under the canopy of fall leaves, this park is a walker’s paradise.

Little River Reservoir Trail

This 3.4 km loop in East Saint John is a local favorite for a reason. The trail hugs the shoreline of a small lake, complete with footbridges, wetland crossings, and a gentle waterfall.

Boar’s Head Nature Preserve

Just off Ragged Point Road, this 2.9 km loop winds through wooded terrain and opens up near Boar’s Head Beach. It’s a short, scenic escape featuring boardwalks over muddy sections, interpretive signage, and occasional deer sightings.

Mayflower Lake, Sweetness, Horse & Shyzer Loop

This 4.2 km trail offers a peaceful walk through wooded paths, passing scenic lakes like Frying Pan and Mayflower. With well-maintained routes and interpretive signs, it’s a great option for families and casual walkers alike.

Coastal & Peninsula Walks

For those who crave ocean air, dramatic tides, and salt-sprayed scenery, Saint John’s coastal and peninsula walks are unforgettable. These trails bring you up close to the Bay of Fundy’s natural power—without needing hiking boots or steep climbs.

Irving Nature Park (Taylor’s Island Trails)

Spread across 600 acres, Irving Nature Park is a walking destination unto itself. Located on a peninsula just west of downtown, it offers a variety of easy trails that showcase the best of Saint John’s coastal beauty:

• Seal Trail (1 km): A short and breezy shoreline walk with views of Manawagonish Island.

• Heron Trail: Leads to the Seely Point Lookout, one of the park’s most stunning viewpoints.

• Squirrel Trail (3.5 km): Meanders through marsh and forest, with a lookout tower and boardwalks.

• Taylor’s Island Perimeter Trail (6.6 km): A scenic loop around the park’s edge with consistent Fundy National Park vistas.

• Seal–Heron–Squirrel Loop (6.9 km): A favorite for full immersion in varied ecosystems—marsh, beach, and forest.

Accessible year-round and great for families, leashed dogs, and photographers, Irving Nature Park is arguably the crown jewel of walking in Saint John.

Sheldon Point Trail & Loop

Located just before the entrance to Taylor’s Island, the Sheldon Point Trail offers a 6 km coastal loop that’s both peaceful and panoramic. It begins with forested stretches and gravel paths before dropping down to Saints Rest Beach, where walkers can enjoy sweeping shoreline views and even spot Partridge Island offshore.

Scenic Forest & Lake Loops

If you prefer peaceful woodlands, lakeside paths, and quiet moments surrounded by nature, these forest and lake loops in and around Saint John offer the perfect setting. These trails are ideal for gentle exercise, walking your dog, or simply soaking in the serenity.

Moose Trax & Long Lake Loop Trail

This 4.7 km loop is a local favorite for dog walkers and casual strollers alike. Maintained by the Saint John Outdoor Enthusiasts, the trail weaves through forested areas and along the edges of Long Lake.

Mayflower Lake, Sweetness, Horse & Shyzer Loop

At 4.2 km, this gentle forest trail offers a relaxed walk past Frying Pan and Mayflower Lakes. It's well-maintained, with shaded paths and a few interpretive signs.

Menzies Lake Trail

The 9.3 km out-and-back Menzies Lake Trail provides a more immersive experience through dense forest with a peaceful lakeside destination. While it’s rated as moderate due to distance and some elevation, it’s not technically difficult and is perfect for extended strolls or leisurely exploration.

Henderson Lake Trail

This 4.8 km out-and-back trail begins just off the Martinon Bypass and winds through wooded terrain to the shores of Henderson Lake. Mostly flat with light elevation gain, it’s well-suited for a quiet solo walk or a peaceful outing with a pet. Just be mindful after rain—it can get muddy.

Family & Pet-Friendly Walks

Saint John is full of trails that are perfect for leisurely strolls with kids, grandparents, and four-legged companions. These routes are gentle, engaging, and often come with bonus features like wildlife spotting, interpretive signage, or fun natural play zones.

Fish Creek Community Forest Trails

Tucked into a peaceful natural area, the Fish Creek Community Forest offers a trio of interpretive trails that are both educational and accessible:

• Anatomy Trail (500m – Green Path): Wheelchair accessible and ideal for young children.

• Silviculture Trail (830m – Blue Path): A short forest walk with educational signage.

• Multi-Purpose Trail (4.3 km – Red Path): A longer loop for families looking for a full nature outing.

Boar’s Head Nature Preserve

With a small beach halfway through and flat terrain, this 2.9 km trail is an inviting loop for families and pet owners alike. Boardwalks keep feet dry, and the lightly wooded path offers both shade and scenery.

Short Walks with Views

These short routes pack a scenic punch—offering ocean views, coastal cliffs, and hidden waterfalls in under an hour of walking. They’re ideal for casual walkers, photographers, or anyone looking for a quick dose of nature without the commitment of a long trail.

Lorneville Lighthouse Trail

This 3.4 km gravel road walk leads directly to the historic Lorneville Lighthouse, offering wide-open views of the Bay of Fundy along the way. It’s mostly flat and easy to follow, making it a great choice for walkers of all ages.

Split Rock Viewing Trail (First 1–2 km section)

While the full Split Rock Trail is considered moderate and best suited for more experienced hikers, the first 1 to 2 km section is accessible for many casual walkers. This portion offers dramatic views of the rocky coastline, crashing waves, and even the distant Musquash Head Lighthouse.

Silver Falls Trail

At just 600 metres, Silver Falls trail out-and-back trail takes you through a mossy gorge to a lovely cascading waterfall in East Saint John. It’s shaded, peaceful, and ideal for a quick nature fix.

Sheldon Point Lookouts

If you don’t have time for the full loop, the first section of Sheldon Point Trail offers a lovely short walk to scenic coastal lookouts. The elevated views over Partridge Island and the Bay are breathtaking, especially when the tide is in.

Lesser-Known Walking Trails (Around Greater Saint John)

Beyond the well-known coastal loops and parks in Saint John, Greater Saint John is dotted with under-the-radar trails that offer peaceful escapes, scenic rewards, and a chance to explore without the crowds. These lesser-known routes range from flat urban paths to quiet coastal corners—perfect for those seeking something new.

Hazen Creek Trail

This 8 km year-round trail is ideal for a longer stroll without steep elevation. Running through a forested corridor near Red Head Road, it’s used for walking in warmer months and cross-country skiing or snowshoeing in winter.

Williams Trail (Mispec)

Located near Cape Spencer, this 6 km trail winds through forested terrain along a ridge with striking Bay of Fundy views. It’s best enjoyed in dry weather, as it can become muddy.

Beveridge Beach Trail

At 14.2 km, this out-and-back trail is longer than most, but many walkers enjoy shorter sections near the beach and lake. The flat, forested stretches close to the water are great for light strolls.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is Saint John a walking city?

Yes, the city of Saint John is very walkable, especially in its Uptown core and along the waterfront. With well-maintained sidewalks, accessible trails, and plenty of parks and green spaces, it’s easy to explore on foot. Many of the city’s best attractions—like Harbour Passage, Rockwood Park, and the Irving Nature Park—are connected by or close to pedestrian-friendly routes.

Is it safe to walk around Saint John?

Generally, Saint John is considered a safe city for walking, both during the day and in the early evening. Most trails and public areas are well-used and well-maintained. As with any city, it’s best to stick to well-lit areas after dark and be aware of your surroundings when walking alone or in unfamiliar neighborhoods.

Are the walking trails in Saint John suitable for children and seniors?

Absolutely. Many of Saint John’s walking trails are designed with accessibility and comfort in mind. Paths like Lake Lily Trail, Little River Reservoir, and Seal-Squirrel Loops are flat, well-marked, and offer plenty of rest areas, making them ideal for kids, seniors, and anyone looking for an easy stroll.

Can I walk with my dog on Saint John’s trails?

Yes! Dogs are welcome on most trails, but must be kept on a leash unless otherwise posted (e.g., parts of the Moose Trax trail system are off-leash friendly).

Are Saint John’s trails open year-round?

Many of them are. Trails like those in Rockwood Park, Fish Creek, and Henderson Lake are used in all seasons, with winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing encouraged in groomed areas. However, it’s a good idea to check local trail conditions after storms or during spring thaw when some paths can become muddy or slippery.

Final Thoughts

Saint John, New Brunswick, is a city where nature weaves effortlessly into daily life. Few places offer such a rare and walkable blend of coastal cliffs, forested paths, and urban waterfront trails—all within minutes of each other. Whether you're looking for a quiet moment by the lake, a breezy stroll along the Bay of Fundy, or a shaded path through a wooded preserve, there’s no need for hiking boots or trekking poles—just comfortable shoes and a sense of curiosity.