Pete Brook Falls is not one of the more known falls in the province, but it ranks very high on my list and has some amazing features that you won't find at any other falls! Along this stretch of Route 101 is home to at least 7 waterfalls and they're all equally unique and amazing! This waterfall can be found in Hoyt, New Brunswick and should be added to your list of waterfalls to check out!
Last year the Oromocto Watershed Association received funding to update all of the access roads and trails. They have done a fabulous job making the roads more accessible, adding more features, cleaning up and updating rest areas and even creating new trails. From Pete Brook Falls a new trail has been created called the Bailey Rock Lookout Trail which gives you access to some amazing views from the top of some of the large cliffs in the area.
The trailhead for the Pete Brook Falls Trail is located off of Duplisea Road near the Smyth Covered Bridge and about 500m up a dirt road. Here you will find the small Pete Falls trailhead sign and a decent sized parking area. This is located in the middle of Fredericton and Saint John at 45 minutes from each city.
From the trailhead it is a 1.6km hike to the falls and another 1.6km to Bailey Lookout. The total hike is 6.4km out and back and should take anywhere from 2 hours and up depending on your pace or if you’re hiking with children. It is upto you how long you would like to spend and enjoy the beautiful falls and views from the lookout, but i suggest bringing a snack, and enjoying both areas. Bailey Lookout also has a bit of an ungroomed rough trail following the top of the cliff. Be very careful with children and pets as there is a large drop and you travel close to the edge. You can often find Turkey Vultures soaring near and even resting on the cliffs edge.
This would be a great adventure for families, friends and pets alike who are looking for a longer adventure which provides a full immersive nature experience. It is possible that there may be others enjoying the trail and falls, but it is more likely to find yourself alone on the trail to enjoy the experience in solitude. In the last 10 years I have only seen 2 other families on the trail.
If you’re looking to spend more time in the area, the Smyth Covered Bridge is a lovely area to hang out along the South Branch Oromocto River at the picnic bench and also a great place to toss in a line to test your luck with the fish. If that doesn't do it for you.. try to find some of the 7+ other waterfalls within 15 minutes of this area!
I hope that this video serves as a trail guide for some and as motivation for all to get out and enjoy some waterfalls, mountains and hiking trails wherever you may be!
Happy Hiking🥾
-Hiking Thru