Beginning Friday, a program called ‘Canada Strong’ is opening up access to national parks, museums and railways- granting free admission and discounted rates. Officials say there is no physical or virtual pass — people can just show up to enjoy some of the country’s most beautiful attractions, although activities may require reservations.
“Just show up and enjoy the benefits offered at participating establishments. The Pass is open to all visitors, whether you are Canadian or coming from abroad. It’s an invitation to experience Canada’s cultural and natural richness,” said representatives from Heritage Canada in today’s announcement.
Youth aged 17 and under will have free access to national museums and can ride on Via Rail for free.
The pass gives free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas run by Parks Canada and a 25 per cent discount on camping fees.
In N.W.T., there are six national parks, including Wood Buffalo Park, which borders Atla.
Austin Blanchard of Wood Buffalo National Park told True North FM that the park has natural wonders awaiting including Pine Lake and the Salt Plains, which were formed from a prehistoric ocean. The park is also a popular place to kayak, hike and observe diverse wildlife, from adorable pelicans to beautiful bison.
“We have our Pine Lake (on the Pine Lake Campground), the entire lake is a natural giant sink hole where people can swim,” said Blanchard.
Another popular geographic feature of the park began forming millions of years ago.
“We have our Salt Plains, which is a giant field of salt that was formed from a prehistoric ocean,” he explained.
“It’s a little bit of a hike, so if you have energy and want to bring your kids for a hike, take them out to the Salt Plains,” recommended Blanchard, who said the Salt River is one of his favourite places to spend time in Wood Buffalo Park.
Another popular spot in the park is the Lookout, with beautiful views of the Slave River’s four sets of rapids, and also a good spot to watch Pelicans, which usually nest in the area.
“You see the Pelicans better if you did the hike down on by mountain portage,” he explained.
“You can definitely see more herds and more quantities of them on the road,” added Blanchard who cautioned that at this time of year, bison may be more aggressive because of the mating season.
Kayaking is a popular activity, along with hiking. The park offers many hiking trails, but some of them are not accessible as yet due to the 2023 wildfires, said Blanchard.
The Honourable Steven Guilbeault, who is the minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and the minister responsible for Official Languages, made the announcement from Ottawa today about the pass.
“We’ve seen an incredible show of unity from Canadians since the beginning of the year. Our Canada Strong Pass aims to make it even easier for families to choose Canada—to discover the beauty of our country, connect with nature, and enjoy our culture all summer long. Whether it’s visiting a national park they always wanted to see, exploring a museum, or booking a camping trip, families can create lasting memories together. Canadians are proud of what defines us, and this Pass is about celebrating a strong, united Canada,” said Minister Guilbeault.
“From museums and railroads to national parks and camping spots, the federal government is making it easier for families to choose Canada as they make their summer plans—and enjoy the places and experiences that bring us together and make Canada strong,” said representatives from Heritage Canada.
The pass will help make some of the country’s natural wonders and cultural treasures more affordable for the public to visit through the summer months.
Children (17 and under) can also get in free to national museums or ride Via Rail for free – when accompanied by an adult. Some provincial museums and galleries are also offering free admission for kids. The program starts Friday and runs until Sept. 2.
The pass includes free admission for all visitors to national historic sites, national parks and national marine conservation areas run by Parks Canada, along with a 25 per cent discount on camping fees.
National museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum offer free admission for children aged 17 and under and a 50 per cent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
VIA Rail offers free travel for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult and a 25 per cent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
Some provincial and territorial museums and galleries are also offering free admission for children and a 50 per cent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
No registration or physical pass is necessary, said reps from Heritage Canada.
Heritage Canada said anyone who would like to know more about the pass can visit their website at: https://canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/canada-pass
