The best walks and hikes around New Maryland Parish
5.0
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180
hikers
24
hikes
Hiking around New Maryland Parish offers access to a network of nature trails within a distinct rural setting. The region is characterized by green spaces, agricultural lands, and extensive forest areas, providing varied environments for outdoor activities. The New Maryland Nature Trails, a key feature, include sections like Fletcher's Walk and Cameron's Loop, which traverse wooded areas. Elevation changes are generally gentle, making many paths accessible for various fitness levels.
Best hiking trails around New Maryland Parish
- The most popular hiking route is Hanwell Nature Park Loop — Hanwell, a 2.7 miles (4.4 km) trail that takes 1 hour 8 minutes to complete, offering a pleasant walk through parkland.
- Another top favourite among local hikers is Odell Park Trail, an easy 3.2 miles (5.2 km) path. This route leads through established park forests, providing a natural setting close to urban areas.
- Local hikers also love the Back Road & Front Road loop — University of New Brunswick Woodlot, a 3.5 miles (5.6 km) trail leading through a university woodlot, often completed in about 1 hour 27 minutes.
- Hiking around New Maryland Parish is defined by well-maintained nature trails, forested sections, and features like a suspension bridge and unique installations such as a wind phone. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy strolls to longer loops.
- The routes in New Maryland Parish are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 5.0 stars from 4 reviews. More than 170 hikers have used komoot to explore New Maryland Parish's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 1, 2026
5.0
(1)
19
hikers
4.40km
01:09
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
hikers
5.19km
01:27
100m
100m
Hike the easy 3.2-mile Odell Park Trail in Fredericton, New Brunswick, through old-growth forest and past the botanical garden.
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6
hikers
2.96km
00:46
10m
10m
Hike the easy 1.8-mile Hanwell Nature Park Loop through a pleasant forest environment with minimal elevation gain, suitable for all.
2
hikers
4.81km
01:15
30m
30m
Hike the easy 3.0-mile Woodlot Loop Road loop in the UNB Woodlot, enjoying forested paths, streams, and ponds near Fredericton.
2
hikers
5.65km
01:27
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around New Maryland Parish
Tips from the Community
Back Road connects with Kent Road, the Lollipop Loop, and other trails. It’s a wide path that can be used for a chill walk while exploring the woodlands.
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The University of New Brunswick Woodlands has a network of trails that forms a loop connecting Back Road and Front Road, with parallel paths that let you choose your route and make your own way through the woodland. The trails are wide and open, ideal for cross-country skiing.
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Hanwell Park Academy, opened in 2022, has a dirt track that hikers at Hanwell Nature Park often use. For now, the track is still accessible and unfenced. This short loop is best hiked on the weekend, when school is not in session.
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Small wooden bridges span over the North Branch Rusagonis Stream so visitors at Hanwell Nature Park don't have to get their feet wet. This river is usually mellow, but during heavy rains, its flow becomes stronger and a bit more exciting.
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The Woodlot Loop Road is a 4-kilometre multi-use gravel and dirt route. With its gentle grades and a single stream crossing, it’s a beginner-friendly option for exploring the area.
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UNB Woodlot is a 1,500-hectare conservation forest featuring woodlands, ponds, wetlands, diverse wildlife, and an expansive trail system — making it one of Canada’s most impressive urban recreational areas.
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The UNB Woodlands feature a broad network of easy–moderate forest trails that loop through mixed Acadian forest, wetlands, and old forestry roads on the south side of Fredericton. Routes range from wide gravel paths to narrower natural footpaths, with gentle elevation and frequent shade under maple, spruce, and birch. Small ponds, streams like Corbett’s Brook, and pockets of marsh give the area strong wildlife activity, especially birds. With multiple access points near Knowledge Park Drive, it’s one of Fredericton’s best everyday nature spots for quiet walks, trail running, or relaxed woodland exploring.
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Hanwell Nature Park's trail network includes loops measuring two, three, and four-and-a-half kilometers. Notably, a portion of the system is an accessibility loop. During the winter months, these trails are perfect for snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many hiking trails are available in New Maryland Parish?
New Maryland Parish offers a diverse selection of over 25 hiking routes. The majority of these, around 20, are classified as easy, making them accessible for various fitness levels. There are also a few moderate and difficult options for those seeking more challenge.
What are the main trail systems in New Maryland Parish?
The primary trail system is the New Maryland Nature Trails, located behind the New Maryland Centre. This network includes distinct sections such as Fletcher's Walk, Charter's Way, and Cameron's Loop, providing varied experiences through wooded areas and green spaces.
Are there any unique features or landmarks to discover on the trails?
Yes, the New Maryland Nature Trails offer some unique points of interest. Hikers can find an impressive 42-foot span suspension bridge and a 'wind phone' located along the Fletcher's Walk loop, which is believed to be the first of its kind in New Brunswick.
What kind of terrain can I expect on hikes in New Maryland Parish?
The trails in New Maryland Parish generally feature gentle elevation changes, making many paths accessible. You can expect to traverse well-maintained nature trails, forested sections, and areas with a distinct rural character, including agricultural and forest lands.
Are there any family-friendly hiking options in the area?
Many of the trails in New Maryland Parish are suitable for families due to their easy difficulty and gentle terrain. Routes like the Hanwell Nature Park Loop offer shorter distances and pleasant walks through parkland, ideal for outings with children.
Can I bring my dog on the hiking trails?
While specific regulations for each trail may vary, many nature trails in New Brunswick generally permit dogs on leash. It's always recommended to check local signage at trailheads for the most current rules regarding pets on the New Maryland Nature Trails or other specific routes.
What are some popular circular walks in New Maryland Parish?
For a pleasant circular walk, consider the Back Road & Front Road loop — University of New Brunswick Woodlot. This easy 5.6 km trail takes about 1 hour 27 minutes to complete and offers a scenic loop through a university woodlot.
What do other hikers enjoy most about hiking in New Maryland Parish?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars. Hikers often praise the well-maintained nature trails, the peaceful forested sections, and the unique features like the suspension bridge and wind phone that add to the experience.
Are there any nearby attractions or points of interest to visit after a hike?
Yes, there are several points of interest nearby. You could explore the Fredericton Botanical Garden, or enjoy the scenic Saint John River. For more walking, the Lincoln Trail and Gibson Trail are also accessible.
Is there public transport available to access the trailheads?
New Maryland Parish maintains a distinct rural character. While it's adjacent to Fredericton, public transport options directly to specific trailheads within the village may be limited. It is generally advisable to plan for personal vehicle access or check local transit schedules for routes that serve the New Maryland Centre area.
Where can I find parking for the New Maryland Nature Trails?
The New Maryland Nature Trails are located behind the New Maryland Centre. Parking is typically available at or near the New Maryland Centre, providing convenient access to the trail system.
What is the difficulty level of most trails in New Maryland Parish?
Most trails in New Maryland Parish are classified as easy. Out of the over 25 routes, about 20 are easy, with a few moderate and difficult options available. This makes the area suitable for casual walkers, families, and those looking for a relaxed outdoor experience.
Most popular routes around New Maryland Parish
Most popular attractions around New Maryland Parish
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