The Lower River Passage
The Lower River Passage is a river-related sustainable tourism initiative involving communities from Saint John to Fredericton, with The St. John River Society as the managing partner.
The initiative is working to develop tourism infrastructure in participating communities and showcase the diverse cultural and natural heritage experiences of the Lower River Passage through a united regional marketing effort. The project simultaneously fosters new tourism services, products and amenities. Each community partner is responsible for infrastructure development in their community and The Society is responsible for providing Passage Support Services to the benefit of all partners. These include the following:
Marketing: Branding and logo development, website, guidebook, brochure, and participation at trade shows;
Technical Services: Network monitoring program, Inventory database, visitor and operator codes of conduct.
Interpretive Coordination: Development and coordination of all site and interpretive signage throughout The Passage to ensure message consistency.
Collectively, the community partners and The St. John River Society hope to deliver a unique, authentic experience that showcases the rich history, heritage and beauty of the Lower River Passage!
For more information about all there is to see and do in The Lower River Passage, please click on our website www.discoverthepassage.com
Find your favourite spot on the Lower River Passage!
The City of Saint John is The Passage’s southern gateway. The City marked the first port-of-call for Samuel de Champlain as he sailed through the New World. He landed on June 24th, 1604, and named the river after St. John the Baptist, as it was his feast day in France. Saint John also marks the beginning of French and English settlement along the lower river - an important story in North American history.
Traveling North-East, you arrive at the Kennebecasis River, the largest tributary on the St. John. Here the Town of Hampton will welcome you to Lighthouse Park and the Hampton River Centre. This public community building will feature an interpretive centre, washrooms, visitor information, a floating wharf and boat launch. Hampton is naturally beautiful. Tour its magnificent marshes and learn the value and importance of Canada’s wetlands.
Continuing up-river, you will visit Grand Bay-Westfield’s Brundage Point River Centre next to the Westfield cable ferry. The iconic building will welcome visitors and showcase the most spectacular views of the river. The site will provide amenities such as public washrooms, and entertain visitors with an interpretive centre, walking trails, boat launches and a swimming area.
The Oromocto River Centre, rests on the banks of the Oromocto River. Rent a canoe or kayak at the small aquatic centre, and explore the Oromocto River and the mighty St. John. Learn about the rich history of Oromocto at interpretive kiosks along the waterfront. The Oromocto Marina is a full-service marina including fuel. In between the River Centres are beautiful landing sites that showcase the St. John River.
The Village of Gagetown’s heartbeat belongs to the artists. Begin your discovery at Rotary Park Landing and learn about Gagetown’s history and why it is a birder’s and artisan’s paradise. Every shop on Front Street is filled with treasures and resonates with local stories and laughter.
The Young’s Cove and Waterborough wharves showcase the history of New Brunswick’s largest lake. Stop by the vegetable stand for delicious local fruit, fresh vegetables, and treats and picnic at either spot. Learn about the communities from the interpretive signage and enjoy the spectacular views of Grand Lake.
The Capital City of Fredericton is The Passage’s northern gateway. The Province’s Capital is built around the river. Take advantage of this full-service stop. Stroll on the riverside trails, shop the downtown’s unique merchants, enjoy the nightlife. Listen to the stories of this city and let Fredericton’s life flow through you.