Reversing Falls

Imagine a place where the laws of nature seem fluid, and a powerful river suddenly begins to flow in the opposite direction. The Reversing Falls are a truly rare natural wonder located in the city of Saint John, Canada. It is not a classic waterfall, but a unique phenomenon occurring in a narrow rocky gorge at the confluence of the Saint John River and the Bay of Fundy.

The secret of this phenomenon lies in the incredible tides of the Bay of Fundy, which are considered the highest in the world. When the ocean level rises, a colossal mass of water rushes into the mouth of the river with such force that it causes its flow to turn back. As a result, raging rapids and whirlpools moving against the current are formed.

During low tide, the picture changes cardinally: the river regains its usual power and the water thunders toward the bay. Observing this eternal struggle of the elements leaves an unforgettable impression and allows you to witness firsthand the power of the moon's gravity governing the oceans.

To ensure your trip is as comfortable as possible, we recommend checking the contact information in advance. Official details will help you find your way on-site and clarify any current visiting details with the administration.

Below are the main contact details and the exact address of the location:

The main activity here is contemplation. It is best to observe the change in the current from the specially equipped viewing platform on Fallsview Avenue. This spot offers the most panoramic view of the gorge, allowing you to see how the calm surface of the river turns into a boiling cauldron.

If you want to add more natural discoveries to your trip, be sure to visit the Stonehammer Geopark, which is under UNESCO protection. This place is interesting for its unique rock formations. Also nearby is Rockwood Park—an excellent space for walks by the lakes and visiting an exotic zoo.

For a deeper immersion, we recommend taking a stroll along the waterfront and exploring the historical part of the city. Remember that the key to understanding this place is patience: it's worth waiting for the tide phase to change to see how the elements completely transform the familiar landscape.

Reaching this natural wonder is easy, as it is located within the city limits. The main observation deck is located at 100 Fallsview Ave. If you are traveling by car, it is most convenient to use GPS coordinates (45.2647221, -66.0880775), which will lead you directly to your destination.

For those who prefer public transport, buses run regularly from the central districts of the city. You can also always use taxi services—the ride from the center won't take much time, as Saint John is a compact port city.

If you want to get the most information during your journey, consider organized excursions. Many tour operators offer private or group tours of the Bay of Fundy, which include visiting the falls as a key point on the itinerary.

The shores where the Reversing Falls roar today hold memories of ancient times. For centuries, these lands were home to indigenous peoples—the Mi'kmaq and Maliseet tribes—who revered the unique power of local nature.

The European history of the region began in 1604, when the famous French explorer Samuel de Champlain arrived here. The future founder of Quebec was struck by the power of the current and the strategic importance of this harbor, which marked the beginning of the development of these territories.

In the 18th century, control of the region passed to the British. A significant event was the influx of "Loyalists"—about 14,000 refugees from Massachusetts who settled here after the American Revolution. Since then, Saint John has grown as an important maritime hub, and the unusual natural phenomenon at the mouth of the river has gradually turned into a world-class attraction, drawing researchers and travelers from all over the globe.

To fully appreciate the uniqueness of the Reversing Falls, it is recommended to plan at least 2–3 hours for your visit. This time is enough not only to take beautiful photos but also to observe how the water's behavior changes.

The ideal option is to visit the location twice: during peak high tide and at low tide. This is the only way to see the dramatic shift in the direction of the flow. Many tourists prefer to combine viewing the falls with a leisurely lunch at one of the nearby cafes, which offer excellent views of the river.

While the natural phenomenon itself is available for viewing 24/7, the official information center and related services usually operate on a schedule: Monday–Friday from 08:30 to 16:30. On Saturday and Sunday, administrative offices may be closed.

Before your trip, we strongly recommend checking the official website or the tide schedule, as the most spectacular sight is tied to the lunar cycle, not standard working hours. Depending on the season, access schedules for the observation decks may change slightly.

Visiting the falls is just part of what this hospitable region has to offer. A stroll through the surrounding area will allow you to dive deeper into the history and culture of New Brunswick, revealing new facets of Canadian heritage.

Very close by are ancient forts and architectural landmarks that will perfectly complement your itinerary: