The River Valley Scenic Drive is one of five Scenic Drives created to help visitors discover the beauty and culture of New Brunswick. What better way to explore the natural splendor, and find adventure in this uniquely Acadian province, than to complete the River Valley Drive in a comfortable Canada RV rental? Just follow the designated road signs to lead you on your way!

River Valley Route Shown in Green, Image Courtesy of New Brunswick Tourism

Enjoy the gorgeous scenery on the River Valley drive as you follow 400km of pristine St. John River coastline, which runs through a valley settled centuries ago by British Loyalists, as well as immigrants from England, Scotland and Ireland. Without stopping, the River Valley drive takes about five hours to complete, but days can be lost on this trip discovering the hidden gems along the way. In the north there is the town of Edmundston, famous for its various festivals, and further south is Sussex, known as the province's Covered Bridge Capital, it is a quaint town filled with small shops and cafes, and is a gateway to the famous Bay of Fundy and the various outdoor activities offered at Fundy National Park. Of course, there is also the vibrant capital city of Fredericton and the delightful port city of Saint John, where you can enjoy the beautiful architecture and a stroll around Market Square.

There are so many different things to see and do while taking the River Valley Scenic Drive, here are just a few to consider:

• In Edmundston visit the New Brunswick Botanical Garden and the gorgeous de la République Provincial Park. If you can time your visit for one of the city's various festivals, like the lively La Foire Brayonne, it will greatly enhance your time here. The Iroquois River Campground (1318 Principale Street) has a small beach with fishing and allows RVs.
• Want to learn more about local customs? In Fredericton you can join classes to find out more about traditional basket weaving and woodcarving at the O'Toole Gallery. Once the sun sets join the Calithumpians troupe for a "haunted hike" to look for various local ghosts and spirits or enjoy a traditional 19th century dinner.
• Also in Fredericton you can tour Odell and Wilmot parks or Killarney Lane Park, which offers freshwater swimming. Learn more about local history by visiting the Kings Landing Historical Settlement. Fredericton also offers beaches, world class art galleries and various farmers' markets and festivals. If you're looking to park your RV head to Hartt Island River Valley, a site located right on the water.
• While in Saint John take the time to see the amazing reversing rapids caused by the tides of the Bay of Fundy. Enjoy your time by the water and the nature offered at Irving Nature Park or park your RV and take the time to discover Rockwood Park.
• Explore Sussex's rolling hills and dairy farms, as well as its famous covered bridges. The town has many cafes, galleries and museums, and there are also outdoor murals painted by international artists that can be admired. In the winter this area is perfect for skiing and snowmobiling. The town also has an RV park with gorgeous views.
• Check out the majestic Grand Falls Gorge.
• Are you a lover of the french fry? If so you'll want to stop in Florenceville-Bristol the French Fry Capital of the World!
• Other quaint small towns along the way include Rothesay and Saint-Léonard.