New Brunswick Autumn Colours
In September-October of 2019, we travelled to the Canadian Maritimes where we first toured P.E.I., Nova Scotia and part of New Brunswick.
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One of my goals was to see and photograph autumn colours and, knowing that Maine is famous for this, we then left the Maritimes in search of the vivid colours. We were to learn, however, that early October in Maine is still too early to see dramatic colour. While we enjoyed other aspects of Maine, we did not find the autumnal scenes I was looking for, apart from some lovely scenes along Hwy 95 as we drove back to New Brunswick.
There, as we travelled the back roads of New Brunswick, you might say we hit the early October mother lode of autumn colour. Starting out in Woodstock on Hwy 130, we encountered a rich scene of a country home complemented by magnificent swathes of reds and golds. Farther down the road, we were struck by an expansive view of gorgeous rolling countryside with colour exploding on hillside after hillside. I had my shot… but there was more to come.
One of the reasons we were in the Woodstock area was to visit Hartland, the site of the longest covered bridge in Canada, which spans the St. John River. The view from the raised riverbank opposite the town site was striking, backed by the glow of colourful hills. We walked the length of the bridge, enjoying the views, the rushing water below and display of padlocks left by lovers as a dedication of their love.
Our destination was Miramichi on Hwy 8. From Hartland, our GPS fortuitously directed us to route 103, then to 107, where we encountered scene after glorious scene of brilliantly coloured landscapes as we travelled through the countryside. The drive seemed long and winding, taking us through hamlets such as Biggar Ridge, Half Moon Pit and Napadogan before reaching Stanley and a short hop to Hwy 8. In addition to the many scenes of autumn colours, the reward was a relaxed tour of lovely back roads, complete with farms and small settlements. It was a memorable journey.
Insights
The appearance and intensity of fall colours are dependent upon changes in temperature and the length of days. We now realize that it makes sense that the more northern climates of Canada, particularly in the eastern provinces, will bring earlier showings than will be seen south of the border.
Exploring the back roads can be very rewarding. The pace is slower so you can take in more. Colourful scenes can be varied and plentiful.
Overcast weather creates nice soft, even lighting that sets off the autumn colours well.
Equipment
Fujifilm X-E3, 18-55 and 55-200 lenses