Embark on a captivating drive through rural New Brunswick’s Fredericton Capital Region, where charming communities, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes await! This scenic loop blends outdoor beauty, cultural landmarks, and fascinating history, offering a relaxing escape through serene parks, riversides, and historic sites. Set aside 3-4 hours to stop, explore, and fully appreciate the views along the way.

Begin your adventure at the Downtown Fredericton Visitor Information Centre (494 Queen Street). Head west and merge onto Highway 101, where the bustling city fades into peaceful farmland and forests, marking the shift from urban life to rural tranquility.

Your first stop is Whale of a Tale Sculpture in Tracyville. While it might seem an unlikely location for a tribute to New Brunswick’s coastal heritage, there’s a fascinating story behind it. Grab a selfie with the sculpture that commemorates the remarkable discovery of a humpback whale’s collarbone in 2023. Fun Fact: Tracy was once submerged by the ocean! The fossil found here is now preserved at the New Brunswick Museum in Saint John.

Continue along Highway 101 to Tracy, a quiet village nestled beside the Oromocto River. Here, Riverside Park offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for a leisurely stroll or relaxing by the water. Nearby, discover a statue of Jeremiah Tracy, a historical figure who played an important role in the development of the area. 

Need a snack? The Tracy Store is a great place to grab supplies for a picnic, and if you’re craving something sweet, Riverhaven Red Barn Ice Cream is a local favourite for a refreshing treat.

Just a short drive away, you’ll find a yellow CP Rail caboose in Fredericton Junction. It’s a nod to the area’s railroad history. Fredericton Junction began as a flag station on the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) in 1898. Later, this section of the rail line was known for its transient community, who lived in camps by the tracks and bathed in the river. One legendary hobo, nicknamed “Lord Beaverbrook,” for his resemblance to the famous man, is immortalized in a sculpture next to the caboose. This region still sees freight trains pass through often, so keep a lookout. You never know when you might experience a bit of local history in motion. 

Delve deeper into the region’s history at the Currie House Museum, which highlights early settlers and pioneer life. Then, visit Art in the Park, an open-air gallery showcasing the works of Robin Hanson. Stroll through this unique park and admire dozens of sculptures and interactive art installations scattered across the grounds. Among the highlights is a 10-ft replica of an Easter Island Moai, along with the Legend of the Ghost Horse. Visitors claim to still hear his struggles in the water on foggy evenings, a reminder of a tragic event when a horse fought for its life after his cart fell into the river dragging him under. 

Continue your journey on the White Rapids Adventure Trail. This scenic path winds through lush forests, providing a peaceful retreat, with trails suited for both hikers and those simply looking to connect with nature.

Next, take a step back in time with a visit to the 1812 Blockhouse Fort, a preserved military site from the War of 1812. The picturesque riverside setting in Peterson Rock Park makes it a great spot for a relaxing picnic.

For those with extra time, visit the Murder of the Peddler Sculpture site, two kilometers down Diamond Square Road, marking a historical crime from 1885. Nature lovers will also appreciate the Hemlock Grove and Scribner Brook Falls Adventure Trails, which offer scenic hikes and photography opportunities.

Head to Hoyt next, where you’ll find two more New Brunswick iconic covered bridges: the Hoyt Station Covered Bridge and Smyth Covered Bridge. Fun Fact: Of the 131 remaining wooden covered bridges in Canada, 58 are in New Brunswick! 

Smyth Bridge Park is a charming spot to picnic, fish, or paddle. It is part of the Oromocto Watershed Adventure Trails, where you’ll find Carrow Falls, Pete Brook Falls, and Bailey Rock Bluff—perfect for those seeking more outback adventures. In autumn, the fall colours and sunset visible at the peak of Bald Mountain are truly spectacular.

Keep an eye out for the adorable Rustic Roots farmstand in Hoyt, open seasonally, offering farm fresh veggies, local products and baked goods. Then head back to Central Blissville and take the Branch Road to French Lake. The drive is a tranquil experience, with tree-lined roads and farmlands. Don’t miss the Hanson Art Gallery & Sculpture Garden. This impressive space houses hundreds of paintings in diverse styles and features over 60 outdoor sculptures, including a massive 30 ft T-Rex, making it a fun stop for visitors of all ages.

A short drive down Sunpoke Road, you’ll find Hanson Nature Preserve, open seasonally for a few months every year. It offers peaceful forest trails ideal for birdwatching, a boat launch for paddlers, and nature walks for simply soaking in the area’s quiet beauty. After your visit, head back towards Hanson Art Gallery then continue to Geary and onto Highway 2 for your return to Fredericton. 

As you wrap up your journey, savour the sweeping views of the rural countryside. From its rich blend of history and art to the natural beauty of the region, the Fredericton Capital Region promises an unforgettable experience. The Tracy – Fredericton Junction – Hoyt Scenic Drive is a must-visit, offering lasting memories of this captivating part of New Brunswick.