Joggins Travel Guide

Plan your trip with this comprehensive travel guide to Joggins, Nova Scotia. Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food to eat, and more!


Introduction to Joggins

Joggins is a picturesque village located on the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia, Canada. This charming small town has a rich history and is world-renowned for its geological significance. Joggins is home to the Joggins Fossil Cliffs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which attracts tourists from all around the world. In this travel guide, we’ll explore the best things to do and see in Joggins, including its natural and cultural attractions, hiking and biking routes, and where to eat, sleep, and shop.

List of Places to Visit in Joggins

Joggins is a small town, but don’t underestimate its many attractions. Here are some of the places you should visit in Joggins:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Joggins Fossil Centre: The Joggins Fossil Centre is a must-visit for any traveler interested in geology or paleontology. It’s an interpretive center that explains the significance of the Joggins Fossil Cliffs. You’ll be able to see some of the world’s most significant fossil beds, which date back over 300 million years.

  • Wardroper Museum: The Wardroper Museum is named after the Wardroper family, who were early settlers in Joggins. The museum is full of artifacts that help visitors understand what life was like in Joggins in the 1800s.

Natural Attractions of Joggins: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Joggins Fossil Cliffs: Joggins Fossil Cliffs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the most popular attraction in town. The cliffs are home to some of the world’s oldest fossils, including the oldest known reptile and the oldest known land-living creature.

  • Chignecto Provincial Park: Chignecto Provincial Park is located just south of Joggins and offers stunning views of the Bay of Fundy. It has an extensive network of hiking trails that allow visitors to experience the natural beauty of this region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Joggins

If you’re into hiking or biking, Joggins has a lot to offer. The town is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of trails to explore. Here are some popular hiking and biking routes in Joggins:

  • The Joggins Fossil Cliffs Trail: A 3-kilometer trail that takes visitors along the cliffs and provides excellent views of the bay.

  • The Fundy Shore Ecotour: An 8-kilometer trail that takes visitors through forests, over rivers and streams, and along the coastline.

Best Things to Do in Joggins: Activities and Tours

There are plenty of things to do in Joggins, whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just relaxing. Here are some of the best activities and tours in town:

  • Joggins Fossil Centre Tour: Take a tour of the Joggins Fossil Centre and learn about the history and significance of the area.

  • Bay of Fundy Kayaking Tour: Take a kayaking tour of the Bay of Fundy and explore the beautiful coastline.

Week-Long Itinerary for Joggins

If you’re planning a week-long trip to Joggins, you’ll have plenty of time to explore all the town has to offer. Here’s a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your time:

Day 1: Arrive in Joggins, settle into your accommodation, and take a leisurely walk around town.

Day 2: Visit the Joggins Fossil Centre and take a tour of the fossil cliffs.

Day 3: Go on a hike or bike ride on one of the many trails around Joggins.

Day 4: Visit the Wardroper Museum and learn about the history of the town.

Day 5: Take a kayaking tour of the Bay of Fundy.

Day 6: Relax and enjoy the town at your leisure.

Day 7: Depart Joggins.

Food and Drink Scene of Joggins

Joggins may be a small town, but it has a surprisingly diverse food and drink scene. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Seafood Chowder: Joggins is located on the coast, and seafood is the town’s specialty. Be sure to try the seafood chowder, which is made using fresh local ingredients.

  • Acadian Poutine: Acadian poutine is a local variation of the popular dish. It’s made by topping fries with cheese curds and gravy, but instead of traditional gravy, it’s made using lobster bisque.

Local Beverages

  • Nova Scotian Wine: Nova Scotia has a thriving wine industry, and Joggins is home to several vineyards that produce delicious wines.

  • Alexander Keith’s Beer: Alexander Keith’s is a popular Canadian beer, and the brewery is located in nearby Halifax.

Where to Stay in Joggins: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Joggins has several accommodation options for travelers of all budgets. Here are some of the best places to stay in town:

  • Seaside Cottages: Seaside Cottages is a charming guesthouse located on the Bay of Fundy. It has stunning views, cozy accommodations, and friendly staff.

  • Windy Sea Retreat: Windy Sea Retreat is a beautiful bed and breakfast located a short drive from Joggins. It offers comfortable rooms, delicious breakfast, and a peaceful atmosphere.

What to Buy in Joggins: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

No trip is complete without some souvenir shopping. Joggins has several shops that sell local products and souvenirs. Here are some of the best things to buy in Joggins:

  • Joggins Fossils: You can’t visit Joggins without buying a fossil or two. There are several shops in town that sell genuine Joggins fossils.

  • Handcrafted Wood Products: Nova Scotia is famous for its handcrafted wood products, and Joggins is no exception. Look for unique wooden bowls, cutting boards, and other home decor items.

Local Culture and Customs of Joggins

Joggins is a friendly and welcoming community with a rich culture and history. Residents take great pride in their town and are always happy to share their knowledge and experiences with visitors. Here are some customs and traditions to keep in mind when visiting Joggins:

  • Respect for Nature: The people of Joggins have great respect for nature, and visitors should do the same.

  • Hospitality: Hospitality is a significant part of Joggins culture. Visitors can expect a warm welcome and friendly atmosphere wherever they go.

Best Time to Visit Joggins

Joggins is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. If you’re interested in hiking and outdoor activities, visit in the summer months. If you’re interested in the fossils, visit in the spring or fall when the tides are low.

Do’s and Don’ts of Joggins

Here are some do’s and don’ts for visiting Joggins:

Do:

  • Be Respectful: Respect the local customs and traditions.

  • Try the Seafood: Joggins is famous for its seafood, so be sure to try some local dishes.

Don’t:

  • Pick Up Fossils from the Cliffs: The cliffs are protected, and it’s illegal to remove fossils from them.

  • Litter: Joggins residents take great pride in their town, and visitors should do the same.

Safety and Health

Safety in Joggins

Joggins is a safe town, and visitors can feel comfortable walking around at any time of day or night. However, visitors should still take the usual safety precautions, such as keeping their valuables safe and locking their cars.

Health in Joggins

Joggins has a small health center that can handle minor medical issues. For more serious issues, visitors should go to nearby Amherst.

Getting to Joggins: Transportation Options and Logistics

Joggins is located in Nova Scotia, Canada, and can be accessed by several transportation options. Here are some of the ways to get to Joggins:

Airports Near Joggins

  • Halifax Stanfield International Airport: Halifax Stanfield International Airport is the closest major airport to Joggins. It’s located approximately 2 hours away by car.

Bus Stations Near Joggins

  • Amherst Bus Station: Amherst Bus Station is the closest bus station to Joggins, and is a 30-minute drive away.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is a popular option for getting to Joggins. Visitors can rent a car from Halifax Stanfield International Airport or Amherst.

How to Get Around in Joggins

Joggins is a small town, and most attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, for those who prefer to drive, renting a car is the best option. Taxis are also available in town.

Where to Go Next from Joggins: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Joggins is located in a beautiful part of Canada and is surrounded by several nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some options for where to go next:

  • Halifax: Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia and is a vibrant city with lots of activities.

  • Parrsboro: Parrsboro is a beautiful town located just north of Joggins and is a great place to continue your exploration of the Bay of Fundy.

Conclusion

Joggins is a beautiful and welcoming town that has something to offer every traveler. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just want to relax, Joggins is the perfect destination. This travel guide has given you an overview of the best things to do and see in Joggins, but there’s even more to discover in this charming small town. Plan your trip today and discover all that Joggins has to offer.