How does the tides happen? This phenomenon is owe to the combination of gravitational pull of the moon and the unique shape of the Bay of Fundy, that leads to formation of tides ranging from 32 to 46 ft. The rate of the water rising is simply astonishing. It can rise between 6 and 8 vertical feet an hour!! Be sure to stay away from the coast during high tides.

During low tide, visitors have the opportunity to explore the natural rock flowerpots. Besides, caverns and tunnels can be observed. These unique sights are sculpted from geological formations millions of years older than the Canadian Rockies. There are about 100 billion tonnes of water flow in and out of the bay twice a day.

At 1:23 p.m.: The shoreline became apparent.

At 1:23 p.m.: It was safe to walk on the shore.

At 2:04 p.m.: Water has subsided significantly.

Water has subsided further, in the next few minutes.

At 2:11 p.m.: The Flower Pot Rocks still partially covered with water.

At 2:13 p.m.: We went a few steps closer to the rocks.

At 2:17 p.m.

At 2:27 p.m.

At 2:58 p.m.

At 3:29 p.m.

The low tide that day was at 3:57 p.m. Miles and I arrived at the Hopewell Rocks before noon to watch the high tide, and waited for a few hours to observe the low tide. I was deeply thrilled by the wonders of nature. The Mother Nature has special ways to present the stunning phenomenon of tidal cycle. It has certainly touched many hearts, including mine.

Visitors have a “six-hour window” to take a stroll along the ocean floor during low tide. The time span between a high and low tide is 6 hours and 13 minutes. When is it safe to walk on the ocean floor? 3 hours before the low tide, and 3 hours after would be an ideal time to do so. For example, if the low tide is at 4 p.m., visitors can explore the ocean floor between 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Since my visit to the Hopewell Rocks during low tide a few years ago, I’ve always wanted to watch the difference between the high and low tide. A few weekends ago, Miles and I’ve decided to organize a day trip there.

It was a 2.5-hour drive from Fredericton. The site was officially closed for the season. We entered through the side entrance. Surprisingly, we weren’t alone. There were a few other people arrived before us. Good thing two of us weren’t the only crazy people stood by the ocean on a chilly, breezy day.

The lovely sunshine was very much appreciated, to keep my body from freezing.

The site is closed during off-season.

At 11:48 a.m.: High tide.

At 12:46 p.m.: The water level has gone down substantially within an hour.

One of the many observation spots at the Hopewell Rocks.

Keep an eye on the time!

While waiting for the low tide, I walked around and took pictures of the surroundings.

Treemoss/Beard Lichen. It’s also better known as Old Man’s Beard.

A closer look at the Old Man’s Beard.

At 12:54 p.m.: Water level at the Flower Pot Rocks was decreasing.

The “secret pathway” that led us to the ocean floor.

Facilities such as cafe and washroom are easily accessible.

Wanting to experience sea kayaking? During the season, you may do so by renting a kayak during high tide. It’s a good way to kill some time between the tides.