Reversing Falls Saint John
Witness the Saint John River's flow dramatically reverse twice daily due to the Bay of Fundy's powerful tides. A rare natural spectacle.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Witness the dramatic flow reversal
Reversing Falls Saint John
Best Time
Witness the dramatic flow reversal
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Witness the Saint John River's flow dramatically reverse twice daily due to the Bay of Fundy's powerful tides. A rare natural spectacle.
"It's a tidal magic show in action! Once every 12 hours, the Bay of Fundy literally reverses the river's flow."
🎯 Check Tide Times First!
Crucial for seeing the reversal. Visit the park's website or local tide charts before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore Multiple Viewpoints
Don't just stay at the main overlook. Walk to other spots for different perspectives and potential wildlife sightings.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Tidal Reversal
Witness the Saint John River's flow dramatically reverse twice daily due to the Bay of Fundy's immense tides. A truly unique natural spectacle.
Reversing Falls Skywalk
Get a thrilling, elevated view of the rapids and the river's changing direction from this unique observation platform.
The Plank Restaurant
Enjoy a meal with a view at this on-site restaurant, offering a great spot to observe the falls and enjoy local cuisine.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Rapids
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Check Tide Times First!
Crucial for seeing the reversal. Visit the park's website or local tide charts before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore Multiple Viewpoints
Don't just stay at the main overlook. Walk to other spots for different perspectives and potential wildlife sightings.
🍽️ Dine with a View
The on-site restaurants offer great views of the falls, making for a memorable dining experience.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera! The changing tides and the dramatic landscape offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Check Tide Times First!
Crucial for seeing the reversal. Visit the park's website or local tide charts before you go.
🚶♀️ Explore Multiple Viewpoints
Don't just stay at the main overlook. Walk to other spots for different perspectives and potential wildlife sightings.
🍽️ Dine with a View
The on-site restaurants offer great views of the falls, making for a memorable dining experience.
📸 Capture the Moment
Bring your camera! The changing tides and the dramatic landscape offer fantastic photo opportunities.
💰 Skywalk Fee
There's a fee for the Skywalk, but many find the unique perspective worth the cost.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Reversing Falls a fascinating natural phenomenon, especially when timed with the tidal changes. While some feel it's not a 'traditional' waterfall, the unique spectacle of the river reversing its flow is captivating. The Skywalk and on-site dining add to the experience, though some suggest it might not be worth a significant detour if not visited at the optimal time.
"The reversing waterfall is fascinating to watch at low tide, when the water is rushing down towards the sea, and at high tide, when the water is going back up the river. I went back twice to see both. Apparently the tide can change the river depth by five metres. Best place to watch is at the Reversing Waterfall Park. Even if you are not there at peak low or high tide it is interesting to see."
John Byl
"So I'll start by saying if you come at the wrong time, this attraction is probably 2 or 3 stars. If you come at the right time, it's a solid 4 stars (maybe 5 if you add in the marine life). We took a cruise excursion that took us here first thing off the boat, unfortunately nothing was reversing so it was like ok a big body of water and a paper mill. We went about our tour and on the way back to the ship, I guess we had some extra time, so we went back by the falls. This time, it was reversing!! Definitely a very unique thing to see. Keep your eyes open for cute little sea animals (seals, otters, etc)."
Shula R
"In my opinion, the Reversing Falls isn’t all that great or interesting. First and foremost, there aren’t any actual falls to see. Unlike in the name, there aren’t any reversing waterfalls. What is there is a river where the water reverses at specific times in the day.
I do not think it worth taking a detour and visiting, but if it’s on your way, it’s not too bad either. It happened to be on my way and the walk down to the river wasn’t long either, but if I had taken a detour to come and see the reversing falls, I’d definitely be more disappointed with what I saw.
There is a gift shop available for visitors to grab some merchandise, but it was very limited. Bathrooms were also available on sight - clean and easy to find.
All in all, I don’t think I would visit the Reversing Falls again, but you may enjoy just popping by and grabbing lunch at their on site restaurant or something."
Swati Praba
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Reversing Falls is easily accessible by car in Saint John, New Brunswick. It's located just off Highway 1, making it a convenient stop for road trippers. Public transportation options might be limited, so driving is generally recommended. +1
Yes, there is parking available at the Reversing Falls site. It's usually ample, especially outside of peak tourist seasons.
While it's possible to walk, it's a significant distance from Uptown Saint John. Driving or taking a taxi is a more practical option for most visitors.
While not always advertised, sometimes cruise excursions or local tour operators include Reversing Falls. It's best to check with local tourism providers for current tour availability.
The best experience involves timing your visit with the tidal changes. Combine this with a walk on the Skywalk and perhaps a meal at the on-site restaurant for a full experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the general viewing areas and park is typically free. However, there is a fee to access the Skywalk for a more elevated perspective.
The natural phenomenon of the reversing tides occurs regardless of specific opening hours. The park and viewing areas are generally accessible during daylight hours. The Skywalk and restaurants will have their own operating hours.
The cost for the Skywalk can vary, but it's often around $15 CAD. It's advisable to check the official website or inquire on-site for the most current pricing.
While some adventurous individuals and tour operators offer whitewater kayaking or jet boat tours through the rapids, it's a highly specialized and potentially dangerous activity. It's not recommended for casual visitors.
There is typically an information area or a gift shop on-site that can provide details about the falls and the local area. Some sources mention an informative video available.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The best time is during the peak of the tide change, either high or low tide. Check local tide charts for Saint John to plan your visit accordingly.
Besides the reversing tides, you might spot marine life like seals and otters. The Skywalk offers unique views, and there are walking trails around the park.
Absolutely! The dramatic changes in water flow, the bridge, and the surrounding landscape provide excellent opportunities for photography.
Yes, children can find the reversing tides fascinating. Supervise them closely, especially near the water and on the Skywalk.
Amenities typically include restrooms, a gift shop, and on-site restaurants. The Skywalk is also a key feature for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are restaurants located at the Reversing Falls site, offering dining with views of the rapids. The Plank Restaurant and The Baratie are notable options. 
The restaurants offer a variety of cuisines. The Baratie features international BBQ, while The Plank has been praised for its quality food and atmosphere.
Prices can vary, but some reviews suggest the food at The Plank is reasonably priced for the quality and view.
While there are no specific restrictions mentioned, it's generally best to dine at the on-site restaurants to support the local businesses and enjoy the views.
The Baratie mentions fresh vegetarian and seafood options, suggesting some variety. It's always a good idea to check menus or call ahead for specific dietary needs.
📸 📸 Photography
The Skywalk offers a unique elevated perspective. The pedestrian bridge and various lookout platforms provide excellent vantage points for capturing the rapids and the river.
Golden hour, around sunrise and sunset, can offer beautiful lighting. However, the most dramatic photographic opportunities occur during the tidal reversals themselves.
Drone usage is permitted in some areas, as evidenced by various drone videos online. However, always check local regulations and be mindful of other visitors and potential wildlife. +1
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the rapids and the bridge. A telephoto lens can be useful for spotting distant marine life. A tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing long exposures of the water.
The bridge spanning the gorge is an iconic feature. The view from the Skywalk is also a signature shot. The historical context of the area, including past events, adds depth to any photographic narrative.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep a close eye on children, especially near the water's edge and on the Skywalk. While the main viewing areas are safe, the sheer force of the water is evident. Packing snacks and drinks is a good idea, though on-site dining options are available. Visiting during peak tide times will offer the most engaging experience for younger visitors.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Plan your visit around the tide changes to get the most out of your stop. Combine it with a meal at one of the on-site restaurants or a quick walk on the Skywalk. This allows you to experience the highlights without dedicating a full day, fitting perfectly into a larger itinerary.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Timing is key for capturing the most dramatic scenes. Aim for the peak tidal reversals. Consider visiting during the golden hours for softer light. Don't forget to experiment with different angles and focal lengths to capture the raw power and beauty of this natural phenomenon.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Reversing Tides
+1Visitors can observe this spectacle from various vantage points. The Reversing Falls Park offers accessible viewing areas, while the Skywalk provides an elevated and thrilling perspective directly over the rapids. Timing your visit to coincide with the peak of the tide change is crucial for witnessing the most dramatic reversal. Many visitors recommend checking local tide charts to ensure they don't miss this natural wonder.
Beyond the visual spectacle, the area is also known for its potential to spot marine life. Seals and otters are sometimes seen in the waters, adding an element of wildlife observation to the experience. The sheer power of the water and the visible change in direction make it a mesmerizing and educational stop for nature enthusiasts.
Dining and Views at Reversing Falls
+1The Plank Restaurant has received positive feedback for its atmosphere, service, and food quality, with some patrons calling it a 5/5 experience. It offers a reasonably priced menu, making it an accessible option for many visitors.
The Baratie specializes in international BBQ and also offers fresh vegetarian and seafood options, catering to a range of tastes. Dining at these establishments allows visitors to extend their stay and appreciate the Reversing Falls from a comfortable setting. The combination of natural wonder and culinary enjoyment makes for a well-rounded visit, especially for those who have timed their trip to see the tidal reversal.
+1Photography and Drone Opportunities
Many visitors recommend bringing a good camera to capture the dynamic nature of the falls. Wide-angle lenses are ideal for encompassing the entire scene, while telephoto lenses can be useful for spotting wildlife. A tripod can be beneficial for capturing smoother water effects or for shooting in lower light conditions.
Drone enthusiasts will find the area visually appealing, with numerous drone videos showcasing the rapids and the bridge from above.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit