Grand Falls Travel Guide

Read this comprehensive travel guide to Grand Falls, New Brunswick, and discover the culturally important attractions, natural wonders, hiking trails, best things to do, food and drink scene, places to stay, safety, and nearby destinations to plan your visit.


Introduction to Grand Falls

Grand Falls is a picturesque town in the Saint John River Valley, located in New Brunswick, Atlantic Canada. Known for its majestic waterfalls and scenic beauty, the town is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Grand Falls boasts an unspoiled natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that will make your visit a fantastic experience.

List of Places to Visit in Grand Falls

Whether you’re a history buff, outdoor enthusiast, or looking for some adventure, Grand Falls has something for everyone. Here’s a list of some must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Grand Falls has a rich history and vibrant culture. Here are some landmark attractions that will immerse you in the town’s cultural heritage:

  • Grand Falls General Hospital Museum: Learn about the evolution of healthcare in the region and view historical photographs, artifacts, and medical devices.

  • Grand Falls Museum: Discover the town’s fascinating past through interactive and multimedia exhibits that showcase the lumber, railway, and hydroelectric industry.

  • The Old Intercolonial Railway Station: Built-in 1910, this National Historic Site served as a crucial transportation hub for over 50 years. Today, it’s a museum featuring antique railway artifacts and local history exhibits.

Natural Attractions of Grand Falls: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Grand Falls is blessed with stunning natural beauty and offers numerous outdoor activities for adventure seekers. Here are some natural attractions worth visiting:

  • Grand Falls Gorge: Witness the breathtaking wonder of the Grand Falls Gorge and the falls themselves, which drop 23 meters over a wide expanse of rock formations.

  • Malabeam Lake: The perfect destination for fishing lovers and kayakers, Malabeam Lake is a quiet lake nestled amidst the forest.

  • Salmon River: This magical riverbank is an ideal place for hiking, fishing, and camping. During the summer months, its clear water and beautiful landscapes make it a popular spot for swimming and picnicking.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Grand Falls

Grand Falls offers a plethora of hiking and biking routes for beginners and seasoned athletes alike. Here are some of the most popular trails that will lead you through Grand Falls’ beautiful countryside:

  • Victoria Park Trail: A beautiful 2.5 km walking trail with peaceful landscapes and views of the Saint John River.

  • Trails of the Gorge: Experience the scenic beauty of the Grand Falls Gorge with these hiking trails that offer scenic views of the waterfalls and the surrounding forest.

  • Trans Canada Trail: The longest recreational trail system in the world, the Trans-Canada Trail passes through the town of Grand Falls and offers stunning views of the landscape.

Best Things to Do in Grand Falls: Activities and Tours

Grand Falls offers a wide range of activities and tours that will keep you entertained throughout your visit. Here are some of the best things to do:

  • Grand Falls Golf Club: Play a round of golf on this 18-hole golf course, set amidst breathtaking landscapes and scenic views of the St. John River.

  • Grand Falls Adventure Tours: Join a guided ATV tour through Grand Falls’ scenic trails, or take an adrenaline-pumping zipline ride across the gorge.

  • Grand Falls Farmers Market: Explore the local food and crafts market, held every Saturday in the summer months, and taste the freshest local produce and handmade crafts.

Week-Long Itinerary for Grand Falls

Day Activities
Day 1 Visit the Grand Falls Museum and Old Intercolonial Railway Station
Day 2 Explore the Trans Canada Trail
Day 3 Take a zipline ride across the Grand Falls Gorge
Day 4 Relax and fish at Malabeam Lake
Day 5 Play a round of golf at the Grand Falls Golf Club
Day 6 Go on an ATV tour of Grand Falls
Day 7 Visit the Grand Falls Farmers Market

Food and Drink Scene of Grand Falls

Must-Try Dishes

Grand Falls is known for its delicious local cuisine, which draws inspiration from the town’s diverse heritage. Here are some of the must-try dishes:

  • Acadian Poutine Rapee: This traditional Acadian dish features grated potatoes, pork, chicken, and veggies wrapped in a ball and boiled until soft.

  • Bouillabaisse: A delicious seafood stew made with a variety of local fish, veggies, and aromatic herbs.

  • Fiddleheads: A local foraged delicacy, fiddleheads are harvested in the spring and have a unique taste that resembles a mix of asparagus and green beans.

Local Beverages

Grand Falls has a vibrant local beverage scene, with many breweries and distilleries offering craft beer and spirits. Here are some of the best local beverages to try:

  • Picaroons Traditional Ales: A popular local brewery that offers a wide range of award-winning craft beers brewed with locally sourced ingredients.

  • Moonshine Creek Distillery: A small-batch craft distillery that makes handcrafted spirits infused with local ingredients like maple syrup and cranberries.

Where to Stay in Grand Falls: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Grand Falls offers plenty of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. You can choose to stay in a cozy guesthouse or a luxurious hotel room overlooking the stunning Saint John River. Here are some of the most popular places to stay in Grand Falls:

  • Best Western Plus Grand-Sault Hotel and Suites: A stylish hotel with modern rooms, an indoor pool, and a fitness center.

  • Auld’s Cove Lodge: A cozy guesthouse offering comfortable rooms, a shared kitchen, and a beautiful garden.

  • Covered Bridge Bed and Breakfast: A charming bed and breakfast located in a historic building that features antique furnishings and a lovely garden.

What to Buy in Grand Falls: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Grand Falls offers many locally made products that are unique to the region and make great souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy:

  • Maple Syrup: New Brunswick is renowned for its pure and delicious maple syrup, which makes a perfect gift for friends and family back home.

  • Handmade Crafts: The Grand Falls Farmers Market is a great place to find unique handmade crafts, from jewelry and pottery to knitted items and woodworking.

Local Culture and Customs of Grand Falls

Grand Falls has a vibrant local culture that is heavily influenced by its Acadian and Anglophone heritage. Visitors are encouraged to immerse themselves in the local customs and traditions, from attending local fairs and festivals to trying local cuisine and learning traditional crafts.

Best Time to Visit Grand Falls

The best time to visit Grand Falls is during the summer months of June to August when the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are many outdoor activities and events to enjoy. Fall is also a great time to visit when the leaves change colors, and the hiking trails offer stunning views of the fall foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Grand Falls

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Explore the town’s natural attractions.

  • Experience the local cuisine and beverages.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage the natural environment.

  • Disrespect the local customs and traditions.

  • Worry about crime: Grand Falls is a safe destination, but it’s recommended to take normal precautions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Grand Falls

Grand Falls is a safe destination for visitors, but it’s recommended to take normal precautions, like locking your doors and windows and not walking alone late at night.

Health in Grand Falls

Grand Falls has excellent healthcare facilities, including the Grand Falls General Hospital, which provides emergency and acute care services to the region.

Getting to Grand Falls: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Grand Falls

The nearest airports to Grand Falls are Fredericton International Airport (YFC), located about 120 km southeast, and Edmundston Airport (CYES), located about 55 km northwest.

Bus Stations Near Grand Falls

There are several bus stations located near Grand Falls, including Edmundston Bus Station, located about 50 km northwest, and Fredericton Bus Station, located about 120 km southeast.

Other Options

You can also drive to Grand Falls, as it’s located on the Trans-Canada Highway, or take a train on the VIA Rail Atlantic service, which has a stop in Edmundston.

How to Get Around in Grand Falls

Grand Falls is a small town, and most of the attractions are located within walking or biking distance. You can also use a car or book a taxi to get around the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Grand Falls: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Edmundston: A quaint town located about 50 km northwest, known for its beautiful botanical gardens and cultural attractions.

  • Fredericton: The capital city of New Brunswick, located about 120 km southeast, offers a vibrant nightlife scene, cultural attractions, and numerous dining options.

  • Saint John: A lively coastal city located about 220 km south, known for its historic architecture, seafood, and cultural events.

Conclusion

Grand Falls is a hidden gem in Atlantic Canada, offering breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant culture, and numerous outdoor activities, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From the Grand Falls Gorge to the local cuisine and craft markets, Grand Falls offers an unforgettable experience for visitors.

Grand Falls Gorge Grand Falls Gorge Downtown stores Downtown stores