Edmundston, New Brunswick: The Doorway to Atlantic Canada

If you’re inspired by the fresh air of the Atlantic, being surrounded by historical charm, and meeting friendly locals, Edmundston, New Brunswick, is where you need to be. Formerly Petit-Sault, now Edmundston, was founded around 1790 by Acadians fleeing Loyalists’ arrival from the East. Today, Edmundston is the most important business and service hub in Northwestern New Brunswick and a must-visit destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Discover the natural, cultural, and friendly charm of this vibrant city located at the Atlantic gateway along the sumptuous Saint John River nestled in the Appalachian!

Immerse yourself in history by walking the downtown core and discovering historic buildings, sites, cathedrals, and even a British Fort. Make it a walk to remember by charting your route across the Madawaska River, crossing the magnificent Bernard-Valcourt pedestrian bridge. While you’re there, take some time to learn about the Legendary Republic of Madawaska, a small, unrecognized state in the northwest corner of Madawaska County, New Brunswick.

Outdoor enthusiasts, grab your paddles and descend our majestic rivers or crisscross our unrivalled mountain bike trails, which are increasingly popular amongst the most ardent cyclists. Only minutes from downtown Edmundston, the Madawaska Trails are a mountain biker’s dream.

With 60 kilometres of singletrack trails, ranging from beginner-friendly to expert-level, there are trails for every kind of adventurer. Every summer, the tracks are home to an XCM endurance race and an Olympic XCO race—must-see events for fans of the sport. Or pedal freely along the Interprovincial Petit Témis bike trail, a 134 kilometre-trail following the Madawaska River and Témiscouata lake.

If you prefer keeping your feet on the ground, there’s no shortage of aweinspiring hiking trails, from short trail loops perfect for taking in the fresh air, or the beloved longdistance Méruimticook trail for those who like to spend the whole day basking in the natural charm of the outdoors.

Why stop with the day when you can keep the outdoor adventures going after dark?

Two unique new outdoor accommodations in the region are bringing glamping to a new level.

Sleep in a luxurious dome with a panoramic view of Lake Baker and its surrounding mountains at Ekö Nature Glamping, or fall asleep to the soothing sound of the Quisibis River in a geodesic dome at Quisibis Domes. Expand your senses at the New Brunswick Botanical Garden, which will captivate you with its stunning colours and mesmerizing aromas and textures! Taste the unique local flavours of this corner of Acadia: the famous “ploye,” character craft beers, and maple products.

End your night with a selection of mouth-watering artisanal craft beers at Edmundston’s newest microbrewery: Microbrasserie Ateepic, located on The Edmundston Fraser Golf Course. This hidden gem has recently announced its own quartet of in-house beers, including the Pin Noir Oatmeal Stout and the delicious, coffee-infused White Pine Stout.

Another favourite for a night on the town is the Brasseurs du Petit-Sault microbrewery, located in a former police station at the very heart of downtown Edmundston. This local hotspot is proud to share the region’s history through its beers, brewing with water drawn from the winding Iroquois River basin, the finest malts and hops, and Belgian yeast.

There is so much to discover, so join in on the fun! Visit tourismedmundston.com to start planning your trip.