Explore Destination Nackawic via the Mactaquac Lake Loop Scenic Drive
The Destination Nackawic region is home to some of the province’s most idyllic views, scenic routes, monumental landmarks, and maritime hospitality. The “Mactaquac Lake” Loop Scenic Drive circles along the south-side using Route 102 and along Route 105 on the north-side, of Mactaquac Lake (part of the Saint John River system). Perhaps one of the best parts of the Mactaquac Lake Loop Scenic Drive is that you can start your journey wherever you desire, and end where you began. The 75-minute voyage on these country roads along Mactaquac Lake will surely become your go-to Sunday drive. Come explore the beauty of the Destination Nackawic region by touring the “Mactaquac Lake” Loop Scenic Drive.
Route 102
Route 102, also known as the Old River Road, is a stretch of highway that passes through several regions within Destination Nackawic. More specifically, you will come across Kingsclear, Mactaquac, Longs Creek, Prince William, Dumfries, Hawkshaw, and Pokiok throughout your journey on Route 102. Your road trip along this stunning side of the Mactaquac Lake Loop Scenic Drive will leave you wanting to circle back.
Book a stay at the Sunset on the River Bed & Breakfast located in Upper Kingsclear on Route 102. This cozy, country-style looks over the beautiful Saint John River and offers guests a true maritime experience. Guests can experience this magnificent view from their room, or even better the wrap-around porch. This is the perfect place to wind down.
Known as Atlantic Canada’s Friendliest Campground, you will experience premium hospitality at Woolastook Park. This campground features tons of acreage, treed lots, wooden tent rentals, a beach area, boat launch, hiking and biking trails, and even a private 9 hole pitch. Campers at Woolastook Park share memories of experiencing summer fun and relaxation!
If you’re looking for a more leisurely activity, Kitchen Brook Falls is nestled within the ramps of an interchange along Route 102. You’ll find this hidden gem with just a quick half a kilometre hike in the woods. Pack a picnic and spend your afternoon admiring the beauty of this 13-foot waterfall!
Kings Landing is a historic tourism site located in Lower Prince William within the Destination Nackawic region. If you’re traveling through the Loop Scenic Drive in Destination Nackawic, you should definitely add this to your itinerary. Take in this 300-acre open-air museum and learn about the stories and events that shaped the social and cultural history of the birth and progression of Canada.
While you’re visiting this incredible tourism site, stop for a bite to eat at the Kings Head Inn or the Axe & Plough Cafe to taste authentic English-style cuisine. Their combination of traditional recipes and modern-day favorites will have you craving even more authenticity.
If you’re traveling through Dumfries along Route 102, we suggest you reserve a table at Dumfries Maples. This family-owned sugarbush is a true testament to our Canadian culture. Explore the beauty of a natural sugar bush, learn about sugaring and savor the best pancake breakfast you’ll find in the Maritimes. Buy a bottle of Dumfries Maple Syrup so you can indulge in authentic maple flavor at home.
As you come around the Nackawic Bend into Hawkshaw, you can find Sunset View Camping off of Route 102 on Hawkshaw road. Sunset View Camping offers a variety of seasonal and temporary campsites that accommodate trailers and tents of all sizes. You won’t run out of things to do here with their provided kayaks and canoes, a heated pool, nearby hiking trail access, and recreation hall.
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Fish the Pokiok Stream
The Pokiok Stream is known as a fishing hotspot in Destination Nackawic! You can find this waterway nearing the town of Nackawic on Route 102. The mouth of this stream is extremely productive as it brings cold water out towards the main river, fishing experts call this a feeding zone. Pack your fishing rod and spend your day getting hooked on the Pokiok Stream!
Route 105
Route 105 is a collector highway throughout New Brunswick that runs along the east and north banks of the Saint John River. Voyaging on this highway you will travel through, the communities of Upper Queensbury, Bear Island, Lower Queensbury, and Mactaquac. This side of the Mactaquac Lake Loop Scenic Drive offers several places to eat, sleep and play. If anything, you’ll want to catch the striking sunset that falls over the shoreline on Route 105.
The Big Axe Brewery is nestled along Otis Drive on the Nackawic waterfront and is a popular stop among town locals and tourists from afar! Quench your thirst with a variety of their award-winning craft beers and take in one of the best views of the Saint John River from their patio.
Looking to stay the night? The Big Axe also has a bed and breakfast. Settle in at this country-chic style historical home to experience East Coast hospitality at its finest.
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World’s Largest Axe
Did you know that Nackawic is home to the World’s Largest Axe? You will see this landmark standing proudly at 50 feet high on the Nackawic waterfront. It represents the importance of forestry within the Destination Nackawic region. You won’t believe it’s empowering size until you stop for a photo-op and see for yourself.
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Robin’s Donuts & Irving
Looking for a quick pick-me-up? Robin Donut’s and Irving are conveniently located on the corner of Route 105 and Landegger drive. Get your caffeine fix, fill your tank, and hit the road again to complete your tour on the Loop.
The Nackawic Golf & Country Club is a hidden gem in Destination Nackawic. You’ll find it on Route 105, just across the Nackawic Bridge. Plan your trip on the Mactaquac Lake Loop Scenic Drive to include this unique 9 hole course.
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Nackawic Motel, Waterfront Pub, Saigon’s Garden
If you’d like to spend the night in town, the Nackawic Motel is located just across the Nackawic Bridge on Route 105. Before you check-in, grab a bite to eat at the Waterfront Pub right next door! It offers delicious maritime pub food and even hosts nights of entertainment. Alternatively, just down the road, you’ll find Saigon’s Garden. Get a taste of this town favorite and indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine.
Can’t get enough of the World’s Largest Axe? Located directly across the river from The Axe is Mariner’s Point RV Park, providing another great vantage point. This RV park offers large fully serviced lots for trailers and tents of any size. Sitting in a protected cove, campers have waterfront beach access with docking facilities for your boat. The breathtaking view of the Nackawic waterfront will quickly make this one of your favorite places to watch the sunset.
Coac Falls is yet another waterfall on the Loop that you’ll want to explore. Once you come across a small white church in Upper Queensbury, you’ll know you’re in the right direction. As you turn on to Lower Caverhill Road, admire the lush green forest that’s surrounding you. The hike consists of 5.6 kilometres (in and out) of moderately easy terrain through the woods and lands you at the impressive Coac Falls.
With over 80 fully-serviced campsites at Great Bear Camping, you can take in the great outdoors effortlessly here. A short drive down the street from this campground will land you at Scotch Lake Road. You’ll be able to hear the splashing water coming from Howland Falls only 900 metres off of Route 105. Don’t forget your camera, you’ll want to get a picture of this beauty!
Located in Lower Queensbury you will find Heritage Country Camping. This is a full-service RV Park with tenting sites available. Heritage Country Camping is known for its family-friendly amenities such as an in-ground pool and its large scale swing set and play structure.
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Everett’s Campground
Only two minutes down the road is Everett’s Campground. Set up your tent or park your trailer at one of their full-service sites. With keen water access, you can go for a dip in McNally’s Cove from Everett’s campground.
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York Centennial Sailboat Marina
If you’re looking for a place to stretch your legs and get some fresh air, the York Centennial Day-Use Area is the perfect place to recharge. Take a jaunt around the park, check out the nearby sailboat marina, and dip your toes in the water. This place is truly a breath of fresh air!
Mactaquac Park has a number of activities and accommodations the entire family will love. Be sure you check out this tourist hot spot while you’re traveling through the sunset shoreline of Mactaquac Lake.
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- Book a site at Mactaquac Campground where you can enjoy spacious lots, a private beach, convenience store and canteen, recreation centre, and multiple playgrounds throughout!
- Zipline through lush NB forest with TreeGo Mactaquac! Experience aerial adventure through their diverse courses.
- Reserve a tee time at the Mactaquac Golf Course for a scenic, challenging, and fun-filled time on these fairways.
- Moco Kitchen can be found within the Mactaquac Golf Course Clubhouse. Their dining room is surrounded by beautiful views and offers casual fine dining. Moco Kitchen is a suitable spot for date night or a family dinner!
- Mactaquac beach is beautifully maintained and fully supervised. If you’re not swimming or sunbathing, the beach volleyball courts will have you rallying.
- The Mactaquac Marina is located just beside the beach and offers docking and mooring for your powerboat, sailboat, or pontoon. You don’t want to pass up a chance to boat on beautiful Mactaquac Lake.
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Mactaquac Dam
The astonishing concrete embankment dam generates hydroelectric power representing 20% of New Brunswick’s power demand. If you want to see the Mactaquac Dam in action, park your car at the lookoff and watch as water flows through the sluice gates.
You’ll find this beautiful resort nestled into the shores of the Saint John River on 35-acres of private land. Book a night at this hotel resort to experience old fashioned charm combined with 21st-century amenities.
Explore the Mactaquac Lake Loop Scenic Drive and take in all of the beauty and adventure in Destination Nackawic. No matter the direction you’re traveling, the Loop will provide you with breathtaking views and memorable experiences!