The best walks and hikes around Hammond Parish

Friar’s Nose is an exposed rocky outcrop with expansive views of the valley below.

As you start down Arnolds Hollow Road, you’ll notice a small house tucked away that resembles an abbey in the Swiss Alps. Looking above the house, you can spot Friar’s Nose in the distance. The road climbs steadily until you reach an ATV trail on the left—this is the trail that will take you the rest of the way to Friar’s Nose. One important note: please do not park near the house. The proper parking area is located just down the road, on the other side of the stream.

A coastal highlands park on the Bay of Fundy, known for dense Acadian forest, deep river valleys, and some of the highest tides in the world. Trails range from short woodland loops to longer routes that link waterfalls, lakes, and exposed ridgelines. Expect a mix of balsam fir, black spruce, red maple, and birch throughout the interior, with wetter areas supporting bogs and mossy groundcover. Terrain varies from mostly level lakeside paths to steep climbs in the river gorges. The park is well-signed, with clear trailheads, campgrounds, and multiple access points along the main park road. Suitable for hiking, running, and, in designated areas, biking.

A small, quiet lake set in Fundy National Forest, surrounded by balsam fir, black spruce, and pockets of bog vegetation near the shoreline. The water is calm and dark, with open views across the lake and limited but clear access points along the edge. A pair of red Parks Canada Adirondack chairs offers a designated rest spot with a close-up view of the water. The terrain around the lake is mostly level, though the approach varies depending on your chosen route.

The Parlee Brook Amphitheatre Trail is the second trail you will come across off Arnold's Hollow Road. Look for ribbons tied to trees to mark where the trail branches off to the left. Since this is a popular winter destination (you should see a well-worn track in the snow), the trail follows a small stream until you reach the main valley. Once there, you will be surrounded by steep cliffs. In the winter, these walls will be covered in thick ice.

The Parlee Brook Amphitheatre is a beautiful year-round destination, but winter is where it truly comes alive. In the colder months, the towering cliffs are draped with thick sheets of ice. The ice takes on different colors on each wall, making for a stunning and unique sight. It is also a very popular ice climbing destination.

Bennett Brook Trail leads to the Point Wolfe River, where clear water flows through the forest. Take off your shoes and use a stick or trekking poles to help with the crossing. Before you do, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful scenery and the peaceful sound of the river.

Bennett Lake is tucked within Fundy National Park, surrounded by forest and rolling hills. Around the lake, you’ll find open grassy areas with picnic tables, perfect for a snack while enjoying the view. In summer, wildflowers brighten the shoreline, and in autumn, the surrounding woods glow with brilliant shades of red and gold.