Northern Quad Route

Explore and Enjoy

520 kms of Pure Joy!

The Northern Quad Route is an impressive ATV trail network that spans the entire northern region of New Brunswick. The route covers over 500 kms (330 mi) through diverse landscapes – forested valleys, wild plateaus, winding rivers, and coastal views, with another 200 kms (125 mi) of local side trails leading to many regional attractions. Primarily accessible during the spring, summer, and fall months, this interconnected trail links many rural communities and offers an authentic backcountry experience in New Brunswick’s north. More than just a trail, it’s a living connection between nature, culture, and the passion for ATV riding that is so evident in New Brunswick.
 

The trail has its western boundary at the Quebec / New Brunswick border, very near the border with the State of Maine, USA.  The trail then runs east though parts of the Appalachian Mountains, alongside crystal-clear rivers and brooks, through kilometres of dense forest (watch out for the moose!) and through many of the small but welcoming communities, villages, towns and cities within northern New Brunswick.  The trail has its eastern boundary near the City of Bathurst, but adventurist riders can carry on their visit to New Brunswick by extending their trip easterly into the Acadian Peninsula, the heart of the commercial New Brunswick fishing industry.  Most riders take about 4 to 5 days to ride and enjoy the scenery along the trail. An example adventure could be …

Day 1 – You start in the west at the Quebec / NB border and make your way to the City of Edmundston where good lodging, food and even a casino awaits.

Day 2 – You head to the Town of Saint Quentin arriving early enough to arrange an afternoon local excursion by car to Mount Carleton Provincial Park to enjoy its vast network of hiking trails. A view from the mountain top is a must. For those more adventurist, a local guide can take you to Mount Carleton along local trails for a full day’s adventure.

Day 3 – You make your way to the City of Campbellton and the Sugarloaf Provincial Park. Take in some hiking and perhaps, arrange to be taken to the Quebec side of the Restigouche River to see the Battle of the Restigouche Historical Site and the attractions surrounding the Listuguj Mi’gmaq First Nation.

Day 4 – This is a long day of riding through heavily forested trails. Many try to get to the City of Bathurst (175 kms away) but if time starts slipping away, you can always opt to stay at one of the small communities along the way, but do not forget to stop at the Jacquet River Gorge lookout … a must see!

Optional Day 5 – Explore the City of Bathurst by driving directly on the city streets into the downtown core.  Afterward, continue easterly to the towns of Caraquet and Shippagan within the Acadian Peninsula which is a further half day ride from Bathurst There is so much to see in the Acadian Peninsula that you may just want to stay an extra day and do not worry; a local guide can easily be arranged.

To drive the Northern Quad Route distance by car takes approximately 6 hours, or the trip can be done in 4 hours if you use Highway 180 ” the Resource Road” that cuts across the province from Saint Quentin to Bathurst. The highway is mostly paved and has the benefit of going past Mount Carleton Provincial Park (the highest mountain in NB at 820m or 2700ft), but do not expect to see many people along the 140 km route.

New Brunswick is an officially bilingual province so you will find both French and English spoken along the entire trail.  Riding on any trail in New Brunswick requires a QuadNB Trail Pass which can be purchased from any ATV Club in New Brunswick or directly online from QuadNB.

attractions

What to see along the trail

what to see from west to east

riding from west to east

0 kms

Region1, Club 56 - Start Point at the Quebec / NB Border

Assuming we begin to the west, the starting location of the Northern Quad Route (Trail #10), is located at the Quebec / NB border, so most riders start about 45 kms to the east in the community of Saint Francois de Madawaska. Some will backtrack to the official starting point but do not worry if you do not want to as many also bypass this small section of trail and head east.  By the way, before you start your adventure, feel free to reach out to us if you would like to arrange to have your vehicle and trailer taken to the other end of the trail (Bathurst, NB) or we can also arrange to have you, and your ride brought back to the start point after you finish. A fee will typically be charged for this service by the club member(s) who steps forward to help.

45 kms

Region 1, Club 56 - The Community of Saint-Francois de Madawaska

The small community of Saint-Francois de Madawaska lies on the banks of the Saint John River and has a population of less than 500. The community offers limited amenities but does have lodging, food and fuel. The following information about Saint Francois is taken from Explore NB  ... Surrounded by lakes and trees, Saint-François is a charming little community bustling with local activity. Did you know that in Saint-François you can visit New Brunswick's only authentic blacksmith shop? After being in operation for 62 years, the Joseph B. Michaud Blacksmith Shop is now a museum where tools and equipment formerly used by the blacksmiths are on display. In the summer, outdoor enthusiasts take advantage of the rivers and lakes in the area. On one side is Glazier Lake, a protected natural environment that's ideal for wilderness camping and observing abundant wildlife, including rare species. On the other side, Unique Lake is a peaceful vacationing area with beautiful scenery where fishing and other water sports can be enjoyed. In the spring, the maple sugar bush érablière Unique invites visitors to indulge in something sweet, and maybe dance a jig or two! Last but not least is the Saint John River, a perfect waterway to paddle in a kayak or canoe. At the end of August, Saint-François organizes the Half Marathon Festivities. Join the pack and jog along the river with runners from all over the Maritimes, Quebec and Maine, or take part in the numerous family activities organized during the event. Come to Saint-François and enjoy the best the countryside has to offer!

58 kms

Region 1, Club 56 - The Community of Clair

The small community of Clair lies on the banks of the Saint John River and has a population of less than 1000. The community is directly across from Fort Kent, Maine, USA and a short drive/walk over international border bridge provides access to the start of US Route 1, marked by an historic landmark.  If you plan to do this, don't forget your passport. Clair and Fort Kent offer limited amenities including lodging, food and fuel. The following information about Clair is taken from Explore NB  ... Welcome to Clair, a picturesque crossroads of social and economic activity in upper Madawaska. An international bridge over the majestic Saint John River links Clair to the community of Fort Kent, Maine (U.S.) Visit the catholic church which houses noted religious artwork, including stained-glass windows from the workshop of Belgian artist José Gaterrath and the station of the cross by the famous Spanish ceramist Jordi Bonet. Forestry is the basis of the local economy.

105 kms

Region 1, Club 55 - The City of Edmundston

At the 105 kms mark you are entering the western edge of Edmundston, a New Brunswick city with a population of approximately 17,000. Edmundston offers a large number of amenities along the trail including hotels, restaurants, fuel and services for your ride, if needed. For more information, visit the City of Edmundston. Also, the following information about Edmundston is taken from Explore NB ... Edmundston is the perfect place to take a moment and stop along the way of your travels. Nestled between sparkling rivers and mountains weathered by time, the city of Edmundston is sure to impress you. It's time to awake your senses by cycling the Petit Témis trail or the mountain biking trails, touring the Fortin-du-Petit-Sault-Petit-Sault-Blockhouse, tasting the traditional ployes or simply taking a relaxing walk downtown as you tour the city. Time to celebrate and create unforgettable memories at shows and festivals. Time to experience the herbalist's shop at the New Brunswick Botanical Garden… so many ways to take your time and savour the local culture!

230 kms

Region 2, Club 1 - The Town of Saint Quentin

The town of Saint Quentin is your first stop when entering Region 2.  The town is small with a population of less than 2500 and has limited amenities including lodging, food and fuel. The town is ~50kms west of the Mount Carleton Provincial Park, home of Mount Carleton the highest peak in New Brunswick at 820m or 2700ft. Although, no official managed trail will take you to the park from Saint Quentin, the local ATV Club can arrange transportation for you to visit the park to enjoy trail hiking and views from the mountain top. The trails around Saint Quentin are managed by Club 1 - Club Sentier d'Amitie St-Quentin. See their Facebook page for local news in the area. You can also reach out the club via their email [email protected]. The following information about Saint Quentin is taken from Explore NB ... This small and modern town is brimming with joie de vivre and discoveries. Climb to the top of Mount Carleton, the Maritimes' highest peak. The Festival Western is one of the largest of its kind in eastern Canada and the only one in the Maritime provinces featuring a professional rodeo. Stop by the Old Train Station Tourist Centre to get information about local events and area attractions. We look forward to meeting you!

253 kms

Region 2, Club 2 - The Village of Kedgwick

The small village of Kedgwick has a population of less than 3000 but does offer limited amenities including logging, food and fuel. The trails around Kedgwick are managed by Club 2 - Club des Tout-Terrain de Kedgwick. See their Facebook page for local news in the area. You can also reach out the club via their email [email protected]. The following information about Kedgwick is taken from Explore NB ...The village of Kedgwick sits in the heart of the Appalachian-mountain country, where you will find a rich history, breathtaking beauty and endless opportunities for exploration! Kedgwick’s history dates back to the early 1900s when many French-Canadian families were drawn to the area by the county’s rich forest and plentiful waters. The natural beauty and wide-open spaces in the Kedgwick area provide an excellent setting to enjoy a variety of terrific outdoor experiences… fish or kayak the rivers and hike or bike the surrounding mountains. Anglers looking to get a few tips need look no further than the experts at our fishing camps, and hunters will delight in the bounty provided by our woods. In the fall the beauty of the area is second to none as the trees turn brilliant shades of orange and red. Join us as we celebrate the changing of the season with the "Festival d'automne" (Fall fest). Take part in the many organized activities, offering something for all interests and all ages and discover the warmest welcome of the local residents!

339 kms

Region 2, Club 3 - The City of Campbellton

The City of Campbellton lies on the banks of the Restigouche River, which is world renown for salmon fishing.  The city has a population of over 10,000 people and amenities including lodging, food and fuel. The town is home to the Sugarloaf Provincial Park containing hiking trails, a campground with cabins to rent, restaurants and a ski hill in the winter months. Campbellton is across the river from Pointe-a-la-Croix, Quebec, which is accessed by crossing the J.C. Van Horne interprovincial bridge.  A short distance away on the Quebec side you will find the Battle of the Restigouche National Historic Site Museum. The trails around Campbellton are managed by Club 3 - Club VTT/ATV Restigouche. See their Facebook page for local news in the area. You can also reach out the club via their email [email protected]. The following information about Campbellton is taken from Explore NB ... Set along the renowned Restigouche River and surrounded by the Appalachian Mountains, the thriving regional community of Campbellton offers a unique combination of abundant forests, scenic trails, majestic mountains and stunning waterways. This inspiring natural environment is ideal for activities like hiking, biking, canoeing, fishing and more, as well as cultural events and festivals throughout the year.

370 kms

Region 1, Club 4 - The Communities of Balmoral, Eel River, Dalhousie and Charlo

Only 30 kms further along the trail from Campbellton are the small communities of Balmoral, Eel River, Dalhousie and Charlo. All the trails in this area, including the local trails needed to see many of these communities, lie within the responsibility of Club 4 - VTT Club 2000 ATV inc. and offer wonderful locations for lodging, food and fuel. The Club is also responsible for some of the longest, most heavily forested portions of the Northern Quad Route so your chances of seeing wildlife (including birds, moose, deer and even black bear) are fairly high depending on the season. See the Club's Facebook page for local news in the area and you can also reach out to the Club via their email [email protected]. The following information about Dalhousie is taken from Explore NB for the town of Dalhousie.  Go to Explore NB for information on all the small communities in this area. ... In Dalhousie, rolling hills, rivers, lakes and streams provide a scenic backdrop for New Brunswick’s most northern community. This is the perfect place to unwind, with a beach, campground, playgrounds, and a leisure centre featuring an indoor pool. There are also tennis courts, soccer fields, ball fields and walking trails. Attend a concert or go birdwatching amidst the inviting landscape, which is equally tempting for photographers, artists, rockhounds and watersports amateurs alike. Take your choice of sea kayaking, canoeing, windsurfing, fishing or sailing. If you are looking for something more fast-paced, mountain biking or go-cart racing may be just the thing. In winter there is a always a variety of cool activities; ice fishing, skating, snowshoeing and snowmobiling; or you could try some downhill or cross-country skiing. If team sports are more your thing, you can always find a curling rink or a hockey game here.The Inch Arran Park and Campground is a full-service campground. Perhaps the most unique fact about the park is the unexplainable lack of flies and mosquitoes! (We’re not complaining!) We have the only marina in Restigouche County, accommodating up to 100 boats. See the sunrise at Inch Arran Lighthouse, view the sunset from Dalhousie Mountain and take pictures at Inch Arran Point.

440 kms

Region 2, Club 5 - Jacquet River Gorge Lookout

After driving through some of the most heavily forested parts of the Border Quad Trail, you will have an opportunity to take a short 1 km local trail to visit the Jacquet River Gorge lookout. This section of the trail is maintained by Club 5 - Club VTT/ATV Chaleur and they can be reached via email at [email protected] or visit their FACEBOOK page for local news and events.

520 kms

Region 2, Club 5 - The City of Bathurst

The ride from Jacquet River Gorge to the City of Bathurst runs close to the main highway (#11) and passes through several small communities such as Belledune, Petit Rocher, Nigadoo and Beresford. Along this part of the trail there are many opportunities to take local trails into these communities to find lodging, food and fuel. In Beresford, you will also find Brunswick Powersports, one of the largest ATV sales / service centres in northern New Brunswick. As you continue past Beresford you will find the City of Bathurst, which lies on the shores of the Neptsiguit Bay, and feeds into the larger Chaleur Bay.  The city has a population of over 13,000 people and many amenities including lodging, food and fuel. The trails around Bathurst are managed by Club 5 - Club VTT/ATV Chaleur. See their Facebook page for local news in the area. You can also reach out the club via their email [email protected]. The following information about Bathurst is taken from Explore NB ... Situated on beautiful Chaleur Bay, Bathurst is a bustling hub of urban adventure framed by the natural saltwater beach and nearby Daly Point Nature Reserve. Come see our local vendors and their products at the Farmers Market, play 18 holes at Gowan Brae Golf & Country Club and 9 holes at Squire Green Golf & Country Club, or indulge in a urban spa. For a truly unique experience, visit the downtown eateries, boutiques and local artists situated at La Promenade Waterfront next to our Visitor Information Centre. From hiking scenic city trails to exploring the picturesque Bathurst Marina, there are endless opportunities to experience idyllic Maritime moments. A few of our favorites include strolling back in time on the city's Heritage Walk and perusing the art collection at the Bathurst Heritage Museum.

Find what you need

Food, Fuel, Hotel and Service

Below is a full list of recommended locations along the Northern Quad Route (Trail #10).
You will find all the essential services for quad riders: comfortable accommodation, varied restaurants and gas stations to fill up before continuing the adventure.

Also, please see our Regional Sponsors page for additional options that may not be directly on Northern Quad Route but may still be of interest to you. 
Each Club has a number of volunteers that can provide you with additional help / guidance for whatever you may need.

Food, Fuel, Service and Accommodations in

Region 1, Club 55 and 56 (at the start of the Northern Quad Route) - Edmundston, NB and surrounding area

Services

Grey Rock Motosports

Located in Region 1, Club 55:
85 Chief Joanna Blvd., Edmundston, NB E7C 0C1
1-506-737-8529
www.greyrockmotosports.com

Food, Fuel, Service and Accommodations in

Club 1 - Saint Quentin, NB and surrounding area

Food

Resto Pub Sportif

Located in Club 1:
132 Canada St., Saint Quentin, NB
1-506-235-1911
Find us on Facebook

Food, Fuel, Service and Accommodations in

Club 2 - Kedgwick, NB and surrounding area

Accommodations

Chalets Restigouche

Located in Club 2:
1397 Route 265, Kedgwick, NB E8B 1R8
1-506-2842022
www.chaletsrestigouche.com

Take managed trail #201 off the Border Quad Trail (Trail #10) for 22 km to reach the chalets.

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Food, Fuel, Service and Accommodations in

Club 3 - Campbellton, NB and surrounding area

Accommodations

Comfort Inn

Located in Club 3:
111 Val D’Amour Rd. Campbellton, NB E3N 5B9
1-506-701-5066
www.choicehotels.com (enter Campbellton, NB)

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Services

Sports Max

Located just outside Club 3:
144 Boul Interprovincial, Point-a-la-Croix, QC G0C 1L0
1-833-501-3844
www.sportsmax.ca
Located approximately 10 Kms from Border Quad Trail. Please call and arrange for pickup / service.

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Food, Fuel, Service and Accommodations in

Club 4 - Dalhousie, Balmoral, Charlo and surrounding area

Food, Fuel, Service and Accommodations in

Club 5 - Belle Baie, NB and surrounding area (end of the Northern Quad Trail)

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