The Rise and Fall of Fundy

Thursday, May 27, 2010 Road Junkies 0 Comments

EAST COAST ROAD TRIP, Chapter 28:
IN WHICH THINGS BEGIN TO SWIRL
  
Day 27:  Saint John, NB.  With a population of almost 70,000 Saint John (not St. John, so it won't be confused with St. John's in Newfoundland) is the largest city in New Brunswick and the oldest incorporated city in Canada, dating back to 1604.
  
Situated on the coast of the Bay of Fundy, the city (pictured above) is split in half by the Saint John River, which flows into the bay...most of the time.  Twice each day, the strong tides from the bay reverse the river flow for several miles.
  
Whirlpools form where the river and bay push against each other
A series of underwater ledges combine with the action of the tide to create rapids.  When the big push is on, vortexes form as the river and bay engage in their struggle.  Ultimately the bay always wins, but only until the tide goes back out, leaving the river at peace once again.

The Bay of Fundy is known for its high tidal range.  In some places along the bay, the difference between high tide and low tide can be as much as 56 feet in depth.  
 
So this is what it looks like below the sea
At low tide, massive fields of seaweed become visible and one can walk on the floor of the bay.  Just be sure you're safely back on shore before the tide rises again.

An image for those who may think the U.S. has too much influence on Canadian culture.  The sign with the big yellow arches shows that's obviously a Canadian company.  See the maple leaf?
  
Named for Canada's first prime minister, maybe?

   
  
DAILY STATS
  • Miles driven:  35
  • Letterboxes:  2 (of 13 total in all of New Brunswick)
  • Tons of seawater flowing in and out of Bay of Fundy in one tide cycle:  100 billion
THURSDAY, 27 MAY 2010