Odell Park

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of pristine nature without leaving the city limits: Fredericton takes great pride in its magnificent Odell Park. It is not just a place for a stroll, but one of the most impressive examples of old-growth coniferous forest remaining in Canada. Spanning over 175 hectares, this "green ocean" is home to ancient trees—some over 400 years old—creating a unique microclimate and a peaceful escape.

At the heart of the park lies the Odell Arboretum, a unique collection featuring every single tree species native to the province of New Brunswick. Walking along the nearly 3-kilometer trail, guests can explore 41 different plant sites flourishing in their natural environment. This makes the park an important educational and scientific hub, attracting botanists from all over the world.

In addition to its wild forest trails, the park features a modern Botanic Garden, a picturesque waterfowl pond, and spacious areas for family recreation. Combining wilderness with thoughtful infrastructure, this place is rightfully considered the main green oasis of the provincial capital, offering 16 kilometers of well-maintained paths for relaxation in any season.

To ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible, we recommend checking the official information and administration contact details in advance. Below is the up-to-date information to help you find your way and clarify any operational details if needed.

There is something for everyone here: active lifestyle enthusiasts will appreciate the 16 kilometers of trails, perfect for morning jogs, Nordic walking, or leisurely strolls under the shade of ancient canopies. Nature lovers can spend time in the Odell Arboretum studying local flora or visit the botanic garden, which houses rare plant species.

For family outings, there are cozy picnic areas by the duck pond and a modern playground. If you are looking for something unique, try your hand at disc golf on the specially designed course. The park remains a popular destination even when the cold sets in: in winter, an outdoor skating rink is opened, sledding hills are prepared, and excellent cross-country skiing trails are groomed.

Don't forget to stop by the historic lodge or simply enjoy the silence in one of the remote forest areas where local wildlife can often be spotted. The park's high ratings and hundreds of positive reviews confirm it is the perfect spot for both solitary yoga on the grass and fun-filled weekends with a large group of friends.

The park is conveniently located on Waggoners Ln, right in the heart of the city and close to the scenic Saint John River. If you are planning to arrive by car, the drive from downtown or popular hotels will take no more than 10 minutes.

For those preferring public transport, there are bus stops within walking distance. For instance, the drop-off point near the CBC / Radio-Canada building is just a few hundred meters from the entrance. The park is also easily accessible by taxi, which can be booked through local services or mobile apps.

Active travelers can walk or cycle to the park from downtown—the journey takes about 20–30 minutes. In the summer, the riverside bike paths make this route especially pleasant, while in winter, groomed trails are available for skiers.

The lands that now comprise the park were once part of the private estate of Reverend Jonathan Odell, a prominent historical figure in the city's chronicles. Thanks to the preservation of these forest lands, we can still see a unique example of old-growth coniferous forest today, where some trees are over 400 years old.

The Odell Arboretum, officially opened in 1985, holds special significance. Its creation coincided with the celebration of the city's bicentennial as the provincial capital. The arboretum serves as a living monument to the region's natural heritage, featuring every tree species native to this part of the country.

Another important milestone in the park's history is a royal visit. In 1967, the central Lodge was officially opened by the Queen Mother herself, adding a touch of prestige to the park. Although the arboretum's collection was severely damaged by Tropical Storm Arthur in 2014, it has been painstakingly restored by the city and its residents, confirming the park's status as a national treasure.

To fully soak in the atmosphere of this woodland without rushing, a typical visitor should set aside 2 to 4 hours. This is usually enough time to stroll along the main trails, explore the arboretum collection, and take beautiful photos of the ancient trees.

If you are planning a family picnic by the pond, wish to visit the botanic garden, or spend time at the playgrounds, it is better to allocate a good half-day for your visit. In winter, when the cross-country trails and skating rink open, time flies by, and a walk can easily stretch until evening.

The park welcomes guests daily and maintains a consistent schedule, allowing you to plan everything from early morning walks to evening strolls under the park lights. Please note that the main recreation areas are open for visitors all day long, seven days a week.

Opening Hours:\n

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• Monday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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• Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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• Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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• Thursday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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• Friday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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• Saturday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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• Sunday: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
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Exploring the surrounding area after your park visit will allow you to dive deeper into the cultural and historical atmosphere of the region. There are many interesting locations nearby, ranging from historic factories to modern halls of fame and memorials.