Moncton is renowned as the maritime hub, being located at the centre of the Maritime Provinces in the Valley of the Petitcodiac River. The inland location makes it a great area for travel connections, and has seen the city become a hub for the railway industry with a strong economy.
Even though the city is full of beauty, it can be lovely to enjoy a break from the city from time to time and take a breather in nature. We’ve compiled a list of our favourite hikes in Moncton to enjoy with your dog.
1. Hall’s Creek Trail
Located just north of Moncton
Taking on the Hall’s Creek Trail is a perfect active day out with your dog, located right within the city. It’s a stone’s throw from central Moncton, on the north side making it perfect for those who are short on time and want to get into nature quickly. There’s a gorgeous river on this looped trail, and with a bit of elevation here and there, you and your dog will get a good workout.
The track is 5.5km in length, so it is ideal for a good 1-2 hour walk with your dog, but take note that you will need to keep your furry pal on a leash.
2. Humphrey’s Brook Trail
Located 15 minutes north east of downtown Moncton
This trail is perfect for those who are looking for a slightly longer route. If your dog is hilariously bad at dog walking, then this route might not be for them. It’s definitely a challenge because of the length, but the actual route itself isn’t too tricky and can be taken at a slower pace to make it more casual.
The Humphrey’s Brook Trail is located on the outskirts of Moncton on the east side. It’s an easy to follow trail with a lovely view of a stream as you wander through the woods with your dog.
3. Riverfront Park Trails
Located in the centre of Moncton
This trail couldn’t be more central to downtown Moncton, making it perfect for those who need a quick trip into nature to escape the city. It follows the Petitcodiac River, which runs brown with mud giving it the nickname the Chocolate River.
It’s a lovely location to enjoy a relaxing walk with your dog, at 5km long. Although your dog will need to stay on the leash, they’ll love the unique parks and bridges that can be explored along the way. If your dog struggles to behave well on the leash, take a look at our top dog walking tips to give you a helping hand.
4. Irishtown Nature Park
Located 15 minutes north of downtown Moncton
If you’re looking for a gorgeous urban park to explore on the north side of Moncton, then this Irishtown Park hike is ideal. The nature park is one of the biggest urban parks in the whole of Canada. It boasts a diverse ecosystem that’s full of stunning Acadian forests, marshlands and a lake.
There’s also a lot of history surrounding the area, with a one-room schoolhouse to be explored on site and a museum and community space. If you decide it is easier to tour this park without your dog, checkout some amazing doggy daycare sitters in Moncton.
If you like your birds and wildlife, there’s lots of lovely nature to soak up. It’s a good length for walkers of most abilities at 5.8km and will give your dog some much needed exercise.
5. Centennial Park Trail
Located south west of central Moncton
This gorgeous wooded trail is great for dogs of all sizes and abilities and is located near central Moncton just south west of the city centre. Whilst this 5km hike is dog-friendly, our furry friends will need to stay on the leash at all times whilst on the paths.
The lush forests and open recreational spaces make this a lovely, varied trail through lots of different terrains. Your dog will enjoy the dog park where they can be let off the leash to roam free. Whilst this trail is perfect for all abilities, it’s recommended that you visit from April – October to avoid the mud!
Which hikes near Moncton would you most like to explore? Let us know over on Twitter. Or, if you want to treat your dog to one of these hikes near Moncton but simply don’t have the time at the moment, then why not let one of our dog walkers in Moncton to take your dog for a lovely long walk?