Parks Canada is ready for the visitor season in Cape Breton and Canso Discover Parks Canada’s Hidden Gems

May 19, 2017                                  Louisbourg, NS                              Parks Canada Agency

To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the Government of Canada is very pleased to offer free admission to all Parks Canada places in 2017. The FREE Parks Canada 2017 Discovery Pass provides unlimited opportunities to enjoy national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas across the country.

This year, Parks Canada is encouraging visitors to their sites to plan ahead and discover the hidden gems within its national park and five national historic sites in Cape Breton and Canso. Take the road less travelled to magnificent views and secluded spots including these hidden treasures:

• Watch the sunrise from the beach on the Coastal Trail or Broad Cove Mountain at Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
• Borrow one of our colourful kites or build one to fly in the fresh Cape Breton breeze at Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site.
• Hike the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site trails with stunning coastal views and see the site from a different perspective.
• Set sail, paddle, or watch boats navigate through the intricate locks at St. Peters Canal National Historic Site.
• Hop aboard for a free boat ride to Canso Islands and Grassy Island Fort National Historic Sites where a remote fishing port once thrived.
• Discover how and where the wireless age began at Marconi National Historic Site.

Canada’s national parks and national historic sites will play a big part in the celebration of Canada 150. This year, Parks Canada in Cape Breton and Canso will offer new and innovative programs to encourage more Canadians, including youth, newcomers, and families, to experience the outdoors and learn more about our environment, our history and experience Canada’s rich heritage. Whether you’re looking for adventure, or fun for the whole family, our special places are gateways to nature, adventure, and discovery.

To ensure the best possible experience, visitors are encouraged to plan their visit ahead of time through the Parks Canada website.

This includes:

· Having your Discovery Pass on hand or pick one up upon arrival for free admission to all our Parks Canada places in 2017. The FREE Parks Canada 2017 Discovery Pass is available from the Parks Canada website as well as at Parks Canada entry gates and visitor centres. Partners such as Mountain Equipment Co-op (MEC) and CIBC will also be distributing passes for Parks Canada.

· Downloading our Activity Guides to plan your visit at http://www.pc.gc.ca/en/voyage-travel/promotion/intro-ns/ns/.

·  Booking your campsite or overnight accommodations early by visiting our website.

· On your way, stop at the Parks Canada visitor centres to show us your pass and receive helpful information

· Don’t miss a thing! Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to discover what’s happening at the site nearest you

Please note that only admission is free for 2017. There are fees for enhanced interpretative programs and recreational services and products such as camping and firewood, fishing permits, and overnight backcountry use.