Background

Joggins Fossil Cliffs: A Window into the Coal Age

Explore 300-million-year-old fossils at Joggins Fossil Cliffs, a UNESCO site on Nova Scotia's Bay of Fundy, revealing Earth's 'Coal Age' secrets.

4.6

The Joggins Fossil Cliffs, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Nova Scotia, Canada, expose the most complete fossil record of the 'Coal Age' (approximately 310 million years ago). Here, the world's highest tides erode the cliffs daily, revealing fossilized trees, plants, and early animal life, offering a unique glimpse into Earth's prehistoric past.

A brief summary to Joggins Fossil Centre

Local tips

  • Check the tide schedule before visiting; low tide offers the best access to the beach and cliffs.
  • Wear sturdy shoes and dress in layers, as the beach is rocky and exposed to the elements.
  • Book a guided tour at the Joggins Fossil Centre for an in-depth understanding of the site's geology and fossil discoveries.
  • Remember that collecting fossils is prohibited without a Heritage Research Permit; take photos instead.
  • Visit between May and October for the best weather and full access to the Joggins Fossil Centre.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    The Joggins Fossil Cliffs are located in a rural area and are best accessed by car. From Amherst, take Highway 302, then turn right onto Highway 242 towards Joggins. The Joggins Fossil Centre is located at the end of Main Street. Parking is available at the Joggins Fossil Centre. Parking is free with admission.

  • Public Transport

    While there is a bus and train station in Amherst, public transportation to Joggins is limited. It is recommended to rent a car or take a taxi from Amherst to reach the Joggins Fossil Cliffs. A taxi from Amherst to Joggins will cost approximately $60-$80.

Unlock the Best of Joggins Fossil Centre

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Joggins Fossil Centre

The Joggins Fossil Cliffs, stretching 14.7 km along the Bay of Fundy, represent a pivotal chapter in Earth's history, the Carboniferous period. Often called the 'Coal Age Galapagos,' this UNESCO World Heritage Site provides an unparalleled view into a coastal rainforest ecosystem that existed over 300 million years ago. The cliffs' constant erosion, thanks to the Bay of Fundy's extreme tides (rising and falling up to 13 meters twice daily), exposes new fossils with each tidal cycle. Visitors can observe fossilized trees standing upright where they once grew, along with the remains of early terrestrial fauna, including Hylonomus lyelli, the earliest known reptile and Nova Scotia's provincial fossil. The site's significance is so profound that Charles Darwin referenced it in 'On the Origin of Species'. The Joggins Fossil Centre, located near the cliffs, enhances the visitor experience with exhibits, displays, and guided tours. Knowledgeable guides lead tours on the beach, interpreting the fossils and explaining the geological history. Visitors can explore the beach independently, but must adhere to the rule of 'finders, not keepers' to protect the site for ongoing scientific research. Whether you're a seasoned geologist or a curious traveler, the Joggins Fossil Cliffs offer an immersive journey into a world long past, where towering forests and diverse creatures thrived along an ancient coastline.

Popular Experiences near Joggins Fossil Centre

Popular Hotels near Joggins Fossil Centre

Select Currency