Going on an adventure in New Brunswick’s Northern Odyssey means exploring hundreds of miles of snowmobile trails that have a lot to offer.
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“L’Odyssée du Nord is a partnership between four regions that have a lot to offer snowmobilers,” said Edmundston Madawaska Tourist Board’s Janice Arseneault. The residents of Edmundston, Campbellton, the Chaleur region and the Acadian Peninsula have come together to offer a network of 1,500 trails, all interconnected. We’ve truly created a one-of-a-kind snowmobile destination in northern New Brunswick. You should know that in the north the amount of snow is much greater than elsewhere in the province. This allows us to offer quality hiking trails and unique landscapes such as Mont-Carleton to the amateurs who visit us. Also this winter in the Edmundston area, very close to Casino Gray Rock, snowmobilers will travel through a new tunnel fully illuminated in rainbow colors that will lead them to the back of the casino. Another important point that speaks for our region is the fact that the surrounding area is French speaking. It’s easy for snowmobilers to reach us. »
Photos courtesy of Tourisme Edmundston Madawaska
While boats sleep peacefully in the ice of Shippagan Bay, snowmobilers take the opportunity to gain access to this unique place.
EDMUNDSTON
The Edmundston region offers you more than 400 miles of hiking trails that have been rated as exceptional by the region’s clubs, and that’s true. From the borders of Maine and Quebec to the Saint-Jean River, you’ll follow snow-capped peaks, majestic snow-covered riverbank landscapes, and alpine forests. Connected to the main trails, byways lead you to the scenic wonders of this corner of the country. Off-trail enthusiasts can also have fun in the Rivière Verte sector.
Several activities and services are directly accessible from the hiking trails. For example, the Gray Rock Casino, which is connected to the Gray Rock Quality Inn Hotel by a walkway. You will discover his restaurant on the second floor. It also offers shelters/garages for snowmobiles and quads. As for restaurants, we can also recommend the Mexican restaurant in Qué Padré! mention that is located in the city and directly accessible from the snowmobile trail, such as the new Ateepic microbrewery.
Photos courtesy of Tourisme Edmundston Madawaska
Here is an example of the snowmobile and quad bike garages that Casino Gray Rock can offer you.
In terms of original accommodation along the way, we can mention the Eko Nature Glamping Domes, located high up with a breathtaking view of Lac Baker, or the Quisibis Domes along the Quisibis river in Rivière-Verte, a peaceful setting in the forest. Another great example for a group is Deer Ridge Riders Retreat’s geodesic dome, which offers four private rooms with full dining and commercial kitchen service.
It’s up to you to visit this unique corner of the country, with its sweeping views and warm New Brunswick welcome.
CAMPBELLTON
The city of Campbellton is located on the Restigouche River in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains.
Quality hiking trails, rated among the best in eastern Canada, give you access to quality lodging and fun snowmobiling attractions. You can easily reach this sector of the Odyssée du Nord by passing through Gaspésie. The Route des Trésors de la Restigouche will seduce you with its 180 kilometers of hiking trails. It takes you to unique places like Mount Squaw Cap, which reveals a majestic landscape. Along the hiking trails you will discover quality accommodation and charming corners that will introduce you to the gastronomy and some well-kept secrets of the region. Themed adventures are also within your reach, such as the hike to Sugarloaf Provincial Park, a 400 kilometer distance, or the Campbellton to Edmundston Crazy Adventure, a 500 kilometer route. Everything has been thought through and furnished to make your stay unforgettable.
Photos courtesy of Tourisme Edmundston Madawaska
Hiking trails in the Edmundston area are wide, well maintained and safe.
CHALEUR REGION
With 400cm of snow each winter, the Chaleur region is considered the snowmobiling capital of Atlantic Canada. Average winter temperatures are -5.2 C. The region’s three snowmobile clubs maintain the trails in a remarkable way. They are considered the best marked in New Brunswick.
Two hotels are located directly on the trails, the Atlantic Host and Danny’s. They offer garages for snowmobiles. You can also walk to the Quality Inn and Best Western, but they are not directly on the hiking trails. As for the other destinations of the Odyssey, you have the choice of several routes that will allow you to go even further in discovering this corner of the country. As examples we can cite the Mount Carleton and the Forest racetrack, 175 miles, or the one that takes you 150 miles to Piston Alley. With a name like that, you will understand that you can push your snowmobile to the limit. One thing is for sure, snowmobilers are expected in this corner of New Brunswick and can take advantage of unparalleled service.
Photos courtesy of Tourisme Edmundston Madawaska
Nepisiguit Lodge is along the trail in the Chaleur sector and offers gas supplies and more for snowmobilers.
THE ACADIAN PENINSULA
The snowmobile clubs in this sector describe their country with fun as snow as far as the eye can see, breathtaking landscapes and trails that connect the forest with the maritime side. Whether you are a nature lover or an adventure seeker, you will be surprised at what the Acadian Peninsula has to offer.
Several circuits are available to you. Just think of the 220-kilometer Aventure d’un jour en Acadie. From Caraquet, head to Tracadie, Allardville and try to discover Pokeshaw Rock, hidden very close to Baie des Chaleurs. There is also the route called Discovering the Splendor of Caraquet Bay (290 km). You will discover the islands of Miscou and Lamèque. At a certain point you can even see Gaspésie and magnificent reliefs on the horizon.
One thing is certain, when you choose the Northern Odyssey, you will discover the beauty, warm welcome and unique services available to snowmobilers in New Brunswick.
To know everything and plan your adventure: www.odysseedunord.com.