Recharge in Nature! Experience stunning views while exploring the mossy coastal forest, rocky beaches, and marshes of the Musquash Estuary. Managed by the country's leading environmental charity, Nature Conservancy of Canada (NCC), the Musquash Estuary Trails are located 19 km (11 mi.) west of Saint John. These are backcountry hiking trails with no facilities and challenging hikes.
Black Beach trail is a 4.2 km (2.5 mi.) loop, aptly named after its rare black sand beach. It features scenic look-offs that offer panoramic vistas of the tidal flats of the estuary.
Five Fathom Hole Trail is a 4.7 km (3 mi.) linear trail with a shorter 1.5 km (.9 mi.) side hike to access the Butler Creek Beach.
An additional trail near Black Beach leads to the lighthouse (an easier hike).
The Musquash Estuary is home to many different animals and plants including orchids, harbour seal, black duck, broad-winged hawk, moose and black bear. Please note that Black Beach trail is in Saint John (Lorneville) and Five Fathom Hole trail is in Prince of Wales.
