Parks Canada’s 2021 visitor season begins this weekend
Spending time in nature and outdoors has a number of health and wellness benefits. As Canadians do their part to limit the spread of COVID-19, having access to national historic sites and national parks to get outside while following the guidance of public health experts, has been more important than ever.
As Parks Canada prepares to kick off its 2021 visitor season over the May long-weekend, the Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada, Jonathan Wilkinson, took the opportunity to remind Canadians of the importance of getting outdoors while following public health guidance and staying safe.
The health and safety of visitors, employees and all Canadians remains of the utmost importance to the Government of Canada. Parks Canada is following the advice and guidance of public health experts and continues to make every effort to limit the spread of COVID-19.
In 2020, Parks Canada took health and safety measures including operating campgrounds at a reduced capacity, adjusting the capacity and visitor flow of indoor spaces such as visitor centres, historic buildings and washrooms, and modifying interpretative activities, to ensure that Canadians across the country could continue to enjoy nature. This season will once again be different than previous years. Visitor access and services will vary across the country depending on local circumstances and only services where health and safety risks can be properly managed will be opened.
Before visiting, there are a few things that everyone should remember:
- Plan ahead. The Parks Canada website provides detailed information on what locations are open, what to expect, how to prepare, and what services are available. Be sure to check the website before you visit.
- Follow travel restrictions and respect the guidance of public health experts. We all need to do our part to limit the spread of COVID-19 and keep one another safe. It is important to always follow travel restrictions, even when visiting national parks and national historic sites.
- Make safe choices. Choose activities that correspond with your level of experience in order to help minimize the demands on emergency response, search and rescue teams, and on the health care system.
- Be self-sufficient. Pack a kit that includes extra hygiene supplies such as hand sanitizer, soap, masks or face coverings, garbage bags and a tablecloth. You should be prepared to bring your own water and food.
- Leave no trace. Help us keep these special places clean by using appropriate garbage containers or by taking all your garbage with you.
- Respect wildlife. Learn more about the wildlife in the park or site you will be visiting, remember to never feed wildlife, always give them space, maintain a clean campsite, respect closures and speed limits, and keep your dog on a leash at all times.
Further information and tips for a safe and enjoyable visit are available on the Parks Canada website at: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/voyage-travel/securite-safety/covid-19-info/covid-19-visite-visit.
Gatineau Park
Gatineau Park is the National Capital Region’s conservation park. The region’s largest green space, it occupies more than 361 km2 (139 sq. mi.) and is home to rich and unique biodiversity. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in recreational activities that respect the environment.
33, ch. Scott, Chelsea
La Mauricie National Park
The perfect base camp for your outdoor adventure in the Mauricie region. Try a canoe trip on Lake Wapizagonke! In the summer, enjoy hiking and waterfalls. In the winter: snow lovers will love the groomed trails and huts. Fond of marshmallows? Spend the night!
Saint-Jean-des-Piles
Saint-Mathieu-du-Parc
Forillon National Park
Located just minutes from Gaspé, Forillon National Park offers a wide range of exciting experiences by the sea, along cliffs and in the forest. Its rich history is as fascinating as the local fauna and flora. Observe graceful blue whales, swim in the water or go for a hike.
1438, boul. de Cap-des-Rosiers, Gaspé
1238, boul. de Forillon, Gaspé
1440, boul. de Cap-des-Rosiers, Gaspé
2286, boul. de Grande-Grève, Gaspé
“Over the past year, so many Canadians have benefited from the health and wellness benefits that come from being outdoors and in nature. I too have taken every opportunity to get outside. National historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas offer countless opportunities for Canadians to safely connect with nature and history while following the guidance of public health authorities to help limit the spread of COVID-19. I am looking forward to the 2021 visitor season as Parks Canada invites Canadians across the country to enjoy the outdoors and create lasting memories close to home.”
The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada
“For Parks Canada, the health and wellbeing of visitors, employees, and all Canadians are of the utmost importance. The Parks Canada team is working extremely hard to provide a safe, clean, and healthy experience and everyone can play an important role. Visitors should make every effort to plan ahead, respect travel restrictions, follow the guidance of public health experts, make safe choices, and leave no trace when visiting outdoor spaces. By working together, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable 2021 visitor season for all.”
Ron Hallman
President & Chief Executive Officer, Parks Canada
About Parks Canada
Parks Canada protects a vast network of cultural and natural heritage places that include 171 national historic sites, 47 national parks, five national marine conservation areas and one national urban park.
Parks Canada is responsible for protecting nationally significant examples of natural and cultural heritage in Canada and sharing the stories of these treasured places.
Through the largest infrastructure investment in the history of Parks Canada, the Government of Canada is protecting and conserving national treasures, while supporting local economies and contributing to growth in the tourism sector.
This investment means many Canadians will enjoy new and improved visitor experience opportunities this season, including the first front country campground in Mount Revelstoke National Park, the renewed Visitor Centre developed in collaboration with local Indigenous peoples in Riding Mountain National Park, new and improved hiking trails in Kejimkujik National Park, and many more.
Parks Canada
Breathtaking scenery, captivating histories, unforgettable experiences: just a sampling of what awaits in Canada’s national historic sites, historic canals, national parks and national marine conservation areas. See them for yourself – and help us conserve them for future generations.
30, rue Victoria, Gatineau
Recent Articles
- Montréal’s eclipse of the century celebrated in science and music by Espace pour la vie and Parc Jean-Drapeau
Jazz Happening, an immersive evening presented at the Plaza Theater on March 24! 💃🏽- Follow the wave to the Montréal International Boat Show
- Friday, december 1st, let’s ski at Mont Sutton!
The 71st Santa Claus Parade kicks off the Holiday season in downtown Montreal on Saturday, November 25!- The immersive Disney Animation exhibition is coming to Montreal! The experience will be presented at Arsenal Contemporary Art from December 15
