Reversing Falls Rapids

The phenomenon changes throughout the tidal cycle. At low tide, the Saint John River flows toward the Bay of Fundy, while rising tides gradually slow the river’s flow. Around slack tide, the waters briefly become calmer before the incoming tide pushes against the river and causes the flow to appear to reverse.

 

Because conditions change throughout the day, the experience can look very different depending on when you visit. Viewing areas around the gorge provide opportunities to see the turbulent water and surrounding landscape from above.