South of Sussex awaits one of New Brunswick’s most rewarding hikes. To top off the rewards, this hike is also simple, easy enough for kids, and suitable for dogs on leashes.
Credit: Ceiln
The Parlee Brook Amphitheatre trail is part of rugged and hilled landscapes that separate the Sussex and Moncton areas from the Bay of Fundy and Fundy National Park.
These tall hills and deep valleys create wonderful hiking opportunities all year round, while the Parlee Brook Amphitheatre trail is a hike to reserve for the winter months.
Hiking the Parlee Brook Amphitheatre Trail
Reserve a few hours for the Parlee Brook Amphitheatre hike at 6km out-and-back, and with several reasons to stop, photograph, and appreciate the frozen natural beauty of the trail.
Remember to wear proper hiking boots/ice cleats and dress for the weather.
- The hike begins with a steady climb into the trees before it reaches a plateau with views of the Friar’s Nose. The trail narrows from here and begins to align with the brook, which may be completely or partially frozen. Throughout this part of the hike, unique ice formations may already begin taking shape beside you.
- Continue until it becomes evident why this area is nicknamed an “amphitheatre,” with steep cliffs rising above the trail in every direction. A winter hike here is especially scenic once you reach the amphitheatre, as those towering cliffs are draped with thick sheets of ice.
- Be mindful of ice climbers tackling the Parlee Brook Amphitheatre ice wall.
- Hike on as far as the ice sheets, or your ice cleats, enable!
More Winter Hiking & Sightseeing near Sussex
The nearby hiking trails that are open for winter hiking provide a wide array of scenery and landscapes to enjoy throughout your travels.
- The Friar’s Nose Lookout offers an opportunity to extend the Parlee Brook Amphitheatre hike by about 1km. The viewing area is accessible from the trail with markers telling you where to turn to hike out-and-back from Friar’s Nose.
- Follow the Sussex Bluff Trail up and above the town’s neighbouring farmlands to get iconic pastoral and rural views! The 3.7km hike up the bluff includes about 90m in elevation gain as the trail rises above Trout Creek.
- Explore the outdoor art gallery that is the town of Sussex on a more urban winter hike. There are two dozen public outdoor pieces between Sussex Corner, and Main Street in Sussex.
Winter Fun at Poley Mountain Resort
The Poley Mountain Resort is a short drive east of the Parlee Brook area and just as short of a drive south from Sussex. The winter playground has trails for snowshoeing, which wind around the downhill ski and snowboard areas. Rentals are available for all three winter sports. Plus, Poley Mountain hosts weekly events for all ages both on the hill and in the Slopeside Bar & Restaurant.
Dining Opportunities in Sussex
One of the closest dining opportunities around the Parlee Brook Amphitheatre Trail will be at Sussex Corner, near Sussex’s Main Street.
- Considering the Parlee Brook trail will have you surrounded by ice and snow, you may need a warm cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate. Local nearby cafes include Picadilly Coffee Roasters, Knocks Café, Bubble Tea Hub, or JJ’s Diner.
- Grab a slice from local shops like Pizza Delight, Greco Pizza, Pizza Shack, or Sussex Pizza Stop.
- Hearty meals are available with Sussex spots such as Philly’s Subs & Spuds, Taste and See, The Mule Bar & Grill, or Kwan’s Cantonese Restaurant
Planning your Trip – Parlee Brook Amphitheatre Trail
What: the Parlee Brook Amphitheatre Trail is a popular winter hike near Sussex and about halfway between Moncton and Fredericton.
The trail leads up a hill, into the trees, and to a frozen brook. Take caution, as part of the brook may still be running water. At the end of the trail and brook is a multi-storey-tall natural “amphitheatre” created by the steep valley walls.
The winter highlight of hiking out to the amphitheatre is the waterfall which freezes over those tall cliffs and valley walls. The thick and tall ice sheets create a stunning winter backdrop and a tall enough wall for ice climbing.
Location and how to get there: 92km NE of Saint John and 90km SW of Moncton
Parlee Brook Road via Waterford Road on the south end of Sussex
Parlee Brook Amphitheatre Trail is located about 15 km from Sussex, 90 km (~1 hour drive) from Moncton, 140 km (90 minutes drive) from Fredericton) and 90 km (1 hour) from Saint John.
Best time to go for winter hikes: December to February
Cost: free
For more information:
Parlee Brook Amphitheatre Trail