Cape Enrage is a headland on the Bay of Fundy coast, between Saint John and Moncton, where a lighthouse stands on cliffs 46 metres (about 150 feet) above the water. Tourism New Brunswick says the lighthouse was built in 1838 and is still in use, with a foghorn and a light that beams out over the bay. The site is run by the Cape Enrage Interpretive and Adventure Centre, and it offers a zipline and rappelling experiences for those who want to look at the cliffs from a rope. A restaurant with what Tourism New Brunswick calls a unique menu is in the keeper's house, and a shop sells items from local artisans. The setting is the real attraction: wide views over the water, strong winds, rolling tides and a coastline of cliffs and shingle beaches. Cape Enrage is close enough to Hopewell Rocks to combine with it on one day, and it is a fine choice for photographers, families who like an active stop, and anyone who wants a lighthouse with some drama.
What to do
Walk out to the lighthouse and the cliff-top lookouts, read the signs about the history of the light and watch the tide over the beach below. If you want to try the activities, the centre offers a zipline and rappelling, which are best booked ahead in the busy months. The keeper's house restaurant is a good place for lunch with a view, and the shop is worth a stop for local crafts.
At low tide the beach below the cliffs is a place for a walk, but keep an eye on the water and stay clear of the cliff base, because the tide rises fast and rockfall is a risk.
Seasons and planning
This is a seasonal site, with the adventure centre, restaurant and shop open in the warmer months and closed or limited in winter. Hours, activity schedules and admission arrangements are set by the operator and can change, so confirm them before you travel. The tide table matters here too, since the beach and the water change the view. Wind is common on the cape, so bring a windproof layer even on a bright day, and wear shoes with grip. Activities may be cancelled in strong wind or rain.
Getting there
Cape Enrage is reached by a coastal road in Albert County, and it is a short drive from Hopewell Rocks, so the two are natural partners. From Saint John allow around two hours by road, and from Alma a good deal less. The route passes through small villages and farmland, and services are limited, so fill the tank and bring snacks. If you are staying in Alma, Cape Enrage makes a good afternoon after a low-tide morning at Hopewell Rocks.
Fitting it in
A sensible day is Hopewell Rocks at low tide, a picnic or lunch at the cape, and a slow afternoon at the lighthouse before driving to Alma or on to Moncton. Allow two to three hours at Cape Enrage itself, or longer if you try the zipline or rappelling.
It is less crowded than the biggest sights, and a good reminder that the Fundy coast has more to offer than its two or three best-known stops. If you are visiting outside the season, check what is open before you drive, because the road can be quiet and the services shut.
What to expect
The experience
A cliff-top light station with ziplines, rappelling, a keeper's-house restaurant, a craft shop and views over the Bay of Fundy.
Best time
Late spring to early autumn, with a low-tide morning at Hopewell Rocks and an afternoon at the cape.
How long
Allow two to three hours, longer if you try the zipline or rappelling.
Tips
Confirm the season and hours, book activities ahead in busy months, wear a windproof layer and stay clear of the cliff base.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Lighthouse and coast lovers, and anyone who wants an active stop on the Fundy shore.
- Families
- The lookouts and the restaurant suit all ages, while the zipline and rappelling have their own age and weight rules, so ask the operator.
- Couples
- Time lunch at the keeper's house for a view over the bay.
- Pair with
- Hopewell Rocks and Fundy National Park are the nearest big sights.
- Time needed
- Two to three hours, or longer with an activity.
Good questions
When was the lighthouse built?+
Tourism New Brunswick says the lighthouse was built in 1838 and is still in use, with a foghorn and a light beamed into the bay.
What can I do besides look at the lighthouse?+
The adventure centre offers a zipline and rappelling, the keeper's house has a restaurant, and a shop sells items from local artisans.
How high are the cliffs?+
The lighthouse stands atop cliffs about 46 metres (150 feet) above the Bay of Fundy.
Is Cape Enrage open all year?+
It is a seasonal site, with services strongest in the warmer months. Check the operator's dates and hours before you go.
How far is it from Hopewell Rocks?+
It is a short drive along the coast, so the two make a natural pair on a single day.
