1 Best Sight in Saint John, New Brunswick

Reversing Falls Rapids and Skywalk

Fodor's choice

The strong Fundy tides rise higher than the water level of the river, so twice daily, at the Reversing Falls Rapids, the tidewater pushes the river water some 90 km (56 miles) back upstream and the rapids appear to reverse themselves. When the tide ebbs, the river once again flows downstream over the rock ledges and on into the bay. You can see the rapids from Fallsview Park, or get an overhead view from the cliff top on Bridge Road. Here, you can also venture out onto the Skywalk, featuring five glass panels for a straight-down view. An excellent introductory film details the fascinating geology and uniqueness of the phenomenon, and docents are on hand to answer questions and offer further insights. It takes time to fully appreciate the Reversing Falls Rapids; you need to visit at high, slack, and low tides—the website, or any visitor information office, has tide times—and to allow for this, Skywalk tickets are valid for the whole day.