Rockwood Park

Imagine vast expanses of wilderness stretching right within the city limits. Rockwood Park is a true gem cherished by the city of Saint John. As one of the largest municipal parks that Canada can boast, it covers an impressive 890 hectares and offers guests a unique combination of forested hills, pristine lakes, and breathtaking geological landscapes.

This place is not just a recreation area, but an important part of the Stonehammer UNESCO Global Geopark. Here, you can literally touch the planet's history by examining rock outcrops that are billions of years old. Ten freshwater lakes, including the famous Lily Lake, create a picturesque backdrop for walking and outdoor activities in any season.

Rockwood Park harmoniously blends an untouched ecosystem with developed infrastructure. A network of 55 trails totaling over 100 kilometers allows everyone to find their perfect route — whether it's an easy stroll along the shore or an energetic hike through rugged terrain among waterfalls and mysterious caves.

To plan your visit and check event details at Rockwood Park, you can use the official communication channels. Park staff are always ready to help tourists navigate the wide range of available activities and routes.

You certainly won't be bored in this natural oasis, as the list of activities here is truly enormous. Active lifestyle enthusiasts can go hiking or mountain biking on numerous trails, try rock climbing under the guidance of experienced instructors, or enjoy horseback riding. Excellent beaches are set up on Lily Lake and Fisher Lakes, where you can not only swim but also rent a boat or kayak for a leisurely exploration of the water.

The winter season transforms the area into a true wonderland: cross-country ski trails are laid out, a skating rink is prepared, and slopes are groomed for snowboarding. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, the park features a golf course with a practice area, as well as the cozy Lily Lake Spa, where you can unwind after a busy day in the fresh air.

Family recreation is also organized to the highest standard: guests have access to modern children's playgrounds at the Kiwanis Play Park, picnic areas, and even a dedicated Bark Park for dogs. Don't forget to stop by the Lily Lake Pavilion to grab a bite at the local cafe or learn about upcoming geological tours that reveal the secrets of the park's ancient stones.

Getting to this natural haven from the city's central area (Uptown) is easy. A trip by car or taxi takes about 10–15 minutes, heading north. Convenient free parking is available for visitors at the main entrances: via Lake Drive at Lily Lake or Hawthorne Avenue Extension at Fisher Lakes.

If you prefer public transport, buses run regularly from central Saint John, with stops located very close to the park boundaries. This is a budget-friendly and convenient way to reach the main trails without looking for a parking spot on busy days.

For those who enjoy active travel, walking or cycling from the Uptown area will take between 30 to 40 minutes. This is a great opportunity to see the city's residential neighborhoods before immersing yourself in the forest silence of the park's alleys.

The history of this place is just as fascinating as its landscapes. The park project was designed in the 19th century by the prominent landscape architect Calvert Vaux — the same man who co-designed the legendary Central Park in New York. The area received its current name in 1894 following a public vote by local residents, who preferred "Rockwood" over all other options.

Before European settlers arrived, these lands were the home of the Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) Indigenous people for centuries. Later, in the 18th century, colonists settled here, building water mills on the local streams. Interestingly, in the 19th century, Lily Lake played a critical role for the city, serving as the primary source of fresh water for all Saint John residents.

Today, the park is a proud part of the Stonehammer UNESCO Global Geopark. The Caledonia fault line runs through here, allowing scientists and tourists to study geological layers that are over a billion years old. This combination of historical heritage and natural majesty makes every walk through Rockwood a small journey through time.

To get a basic feel for the park and enjoy the views of the main lakes, you will need at least 4–6 hours. This is enough time for a leisurely stroll along a couple of popular routes, a small picnic, and a visit to the information center at the Lily Lake Pavilion.

However, if you plan on a serious hike on the outer trails, rock climbing, a round of golf, or want to fit in a visit to the spa, it’s better to set aside a full day. The territory is so vast that it’s easy to spend an entire weekend here, completely immersing yourself in the atmosphere of tranquility and wilderness.

The park grounds are open to the public daily, typically from dawn to dusk, allowing guests to enjoy morning runs or evening walks in the rays of the setting sun.

Administrative services, equipment rental centers, and the main facilities at the pavilion operate on the following schedule:

• Monday — Sunday: 08:30 – 19:00

The park's location makes it easy to combine a nature walk with a tour of the city's historical and cultural landmarks. Exploring the surrounding area will help you gain a deeper understanding of the region's history and see how harmoniously historic architecture and natural landscapes coexist.

Below are interesting locations nearby that are worth including in your Saint John sightseeing plan.