Spring is one of the most wonderful seasons to lace up your boots and discover the natural beauty of Moncton’s hiking trails. Local trails offer respite views as the snow melts and nature comes back to life, providing serene escapes and wildlife spotting opportunities amid the unmistakable scent of fresh pine in the air. Those wanting to get outside and enjoy the season will find several hiking areas in Moncton to suit their experience level and energy.
Many outdoor enthusiasts in the area head to Irishtown Nature Park. As one of Canada’s largest urban parks, it features numerous wide gravel paths as well as smaller, wooded trails that loop around the lake and wind through dense woods. Spring brings birdsong and budding greenery on the trails. It’s a wonderful spot to bring a camera or simply to appreciate the quiet beauty of a morning walk. There are many trails to choose from, so you can adjust your route depending on how much time you have.
Centennial Park is another hidden gem that is especially beautiful in the spring. It’s centrally located and has well-maintained trails that wind around streams and wooded areas. The soft topography lends itself perfectly to a leisurely hike or post-work stroll. Spring wildflowers start to peek out along trail edges, and you may see ducks returning to the pond. There’s also a fitness trail if you’d like to work out while hiking.
For something more rustic, the Dobson Trail offers a longer and more rugged experience. This 58-kilometre trail begins just outside Moncton and meanders through forest, streams and hills toward Fundy National Park. Though most people don’t complete the entire trail in one day, a spring hike on a section of the trail provides a taste of wilderness without venturing far from the region. The trail is part of the Trans Canada Trail network and is maintained by volunteers, so conditions can vary. Some decent boots and prep work go a long way.
For a more urban option that still offers a connection to nature, consider the Riverfront Trail. It runs along the Petitcodiac River, providing lovely vantage points of both the water and the skyline. In the spring, the tidal bore returns, so you can see this unique phenomenon while walking the trail. It’s a smooth, mostly flat trail with lots of benches and resting places. This combination of nature and city makes it perfect for people who want to enjoy a scenic walk without heading too far.
Lastly, the Mapleton Park trail system is also a great option. Squeezed in between the Trinity shopping area and North Garrison Creek, this trail system threads peacefully through woods and around wetlands. It’s not as busy as some of the other city pathways, and it’s a great escape for a few hours in the afternoon. In the spring, you’ll hear frogs croaking in the ponds and see small critters re-emerge from a long winter.
No matter which trail you choose, spring hiking in Moncton offers a refreshing way to reconnect with nature. Just remember to wear good shoes, check trail conditions if you’re going into the woods, and bring some water. Whether you’re walking for fitness, fresh air, or peace of mind, Moncton’s trail system always delivers.