Geode Hunting In New Brunswick

Geodes, gems, and fossils can be found in several places in New Brunswick, Canada. Point Wolfe in Fundy National Park, Grand Manan Island in the Bay of Fundy, and Tin Can Beach in Saint John are all popular spots for rockhounding. Cape Enrage on the Bay of Fundy is another great location for fossil hunting, and you can also go zip-lining or visit old shipwrecks there.

Point Wolfe in Fundy National Park

Point Wolfe also offers unique camping options such as o'TENTiks, which are hybrids between tents and cabins that provide luxurious amenities like electricity, a propane grill, lights, heat, a table, and chairs. There is also The Goutte d’Ô, a unique sleeping structure with a sleeping hammock for a loft and a futon below. Outside, there is a deck and two Adirondack chairs. These options are in high demand, so be sure to reserve early.

One of the best perks of camping at Point Wolfe is the proximity to awesome hiking trails. Several trailheads are located near the campground entrance, so you can explore without even getting in your car. Notable trails include the Shiphaven Trail, Coppermine Trail, Matthews Head, and Point Wolfe Beach, which is an excellent spot to watch the famous Fundy tides and the sunrise.

In addition to hiking and camping, Point Wolfe is a great place to go rockhounding and look for geodes. The nearby Point Wolfe Covered Bridge, which looks like it's straight out of Beetlejuice, is also worth checking out. Overall, Point Wolfe in Fundy National Park offers a wonderful combination of nature, adventure, and relaxation for campers and rockhounds alike.

Grand Manan Island in the Bay of Fundy

Grand Manan Island is a Canadian island in the Bay of Fundy, part of the province of New Brunswick. It is a great place to go rockhounding for geodes, crystals, and other interesting rocks. The best place on the island to look for gems is Whale Cove, which has produced some of the best finds over the years. You can find your own smoky quartz, amethyst, malachite, jasper, chalcedony, and basalt samples.

The island is also a great destination for tourism, with its working fishing villages, herring weirs, and lighthouses offering a glimpse into its maritime roots. There is an array of activities to do on the island, including hiking, kayaking, beachcombing, bird watching, biking, nature walks, and whale watching. The Grand Manan Whale & Seabird Research Station is a non-profit facility that offers interesting interpretive displays of local marine life.

There are also many accommodation options on the island, ranging from quaint cottages and inns to camping under the stars. The Anchorage Provincial Park offers a natural beauty for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. The Swallowtail Light is one of the few remaining wooden lighthouses in Canada and is set on a piece of land almost detached from the rest of the island, reachable only by a footbridge.

Grand Manan Island is accessible by ferry from Blacks Harbour, with crossings taking approximately 90 minutes. The island has a humid continental climate, with comfortable spring, summer, and fall weather, but winter can be unpredictable with snow, rain, and freezing rain.

Overall, Grand Manan Island in the Bay of Fundy is a great destination for those interested in rockhounding, outdoor activities, and exploring maritime history.

Tin Can Beach in Saint John

While Tin Can Beach is a great place to hunt for precious stones, it's important to note that there are several restrictions in place. Swimming, drinking alcohol, smoking, and practising activities are not allowed. Additionally, there is no food available for purchase at the beach, so be sure to bring your own food and drink, and remember to leave nothing behind but footprints.

The best time to visit Tin Can Beach for warmer temperatures and potentially smaller crowds is during the months of April, July, August, and September. Keep in mind that finding shade at the beach can be challenging. If you plan to drive to the beach, note that the journey can be difficult, and cell phone signal in the area is weak.

If you're interested in exploring the flora and fauna of Tin Can Beach, ACAP Saint John has created a living document called the Field Guide to Tin Can Beach. You can contribute to this guide by taking photos of the plants and animals you find and submitting them via email or the form on their website.

Cape Enrage on the Bay of Fundy

Cape Enrage, located on the Bay of Fundy, is a must-visit destination for rockhounds and adventure seekers alike. This stunning spot, situated on the southern tip of Barn Marsh Island in Albert County, New Brunswick, offers a plethora of activities and natural wonders to explore.

The name Cape Enrage originates from the large reef extending south into Chignecto Bay, causing the waters to become extremely violent, especially at half tide when the reef is partially exposed. Despite its intimidating name, Cape Enrage is a haven for thrill-seekers and nature enthusiasts. The area boasts towering cliffs, reaching over 50 meters (145 feet) in height, providing spectacular views of the Bay of Fundy's giant tides and currents, which can rise up to 16.3 meters (53 vertical feet) twice a day.

One of the highlights of Cape Enrage is the iconic lighthouse, established in 1838 and still operational today. The lighthouse offers a glimpse into the area's maritime history and serves as a guide for ships navigating the treacherous waters. Visitors can also explore the fossil beach, where they might discover precious stones and fossils, although it's important to note the Heritage Conservation Act prohibits touching or removing any potential fossils found.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Cape Enrage offers a thrilling rappelling experience. Adventurers can descend 43 meters (142 feet) down the waterside rock cliffs, taking in the breathtaking views of the Bay of Fundy. The activity is guided by experienced adventure staff, who provide all the necessary equipment and instructions. It's important to arrive on time as rappelling takes place on oceanfront cliffs, and time extensions may not be guaranteed.

In addition to rappelling, Cape Enrage provides other exciting activities such as zip-lining and exploring old shipwrecks. The area truly offers something for everyone, from outdoor enthusiasts to those seeking a unique connection with nature. So whether you're a rockhound, a history buff, or an adventure seeker, Cape Enrage on the Bay of Fundy is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural wonders of New Brunswick.

New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources Minerals and Petroleum Division

If you're looking for geodes in New Brunswick, the New Brunswick Department of Natural Resources Minerals and Petroleum Division is a great place to start. They have a wealth of information about the geology and minerals of the province and can provide guidance on the best locations for mineral collecting.

For those based in Fredericton, there are no specific locations listed on Mindat.org, but CFB Gagetown is noted as a place where collecting can take place. For those willing to travel, Point Wolfe in Fundy National Park is a beautiful camping spot surrounded by the Bluffs, where geodes can be found. It is also close to some stunning covered bridges, such as the Point Wolfe Covered Bridge.

Grand Manan Island in the Bay of Fundy is another recommended location for geode hunting. The island offers the opportunity to dig for a variety of geodes and gems, as well as the chance to watch whales and explore lighthouses, museums, and festivals.

For those without access to a car, Tin Can Beach in Saint John is a great option. Precious stones like flint can be found here, and the area offers plenty of opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Cape Enrage on the Bay of Fundy is another spot worth considering. In addition to the possibility of finding fossils and geodes, Cape Enrage offers zip-lining and old shipwrecks to explore.

When planning your trip, be sure to familiarise yourself with the Heritage Conservation Act, which states that any suspected fossils must not be touched and instead reported. Additionally, always check that you have the necessary rights to collect on any land you visit.

Happy hunting!

Frequently asked questions