The wilderness found in Canada’s national parks is world famous. And with the soon-to-launch Canada Strong Pass, Canadians and visitors alike will be able to explore much of our biodiverse backyard free of charge.
Aimed at drumming up interest in domestic tourism, this federal government initiative offers free admission to all Parks Canada sites. On top of that, Parks Canada is also reducing camping fees by 25 per cent. If there was ever a time to dig out your tent and lace up those hiking boots, it’s now.
Beyond unfettered access to the Great Outdoors, the Canada Strong Pass also includes discounts on railways, national and provincial museums and participating galleries. So, let’s break down what’s included and what you need to dive into Canada’s diverse cultural and environmental landscape gratis.
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WHAT: Canada Strong Pass
WHEN: From June 20 until Sept. 2, 2025
HOW: No physical pass is actually needed. You can register online or just show up. The national park and participating attractions will automatically apply the discounted Canada Strong Pass rate at the gate. If you’re making a new reservation online or over the phone, the reduced rate will be applied.
Note: If you booked a campsite before June 20 with dates that land within the Canada Strong Pass zone, fear not! You’ll get a follow-up email from Parks Canada with directions on how to get a refund.
Also, if you’ve already bought a Parks Canada Discovery Pass or an annual single-location pass, Parks Canada will automatically extend the pass for an additional three months. This way, you’ll still get the free summer months, and you don’t need to do a thing — it’s already done!
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What’s Included in the Canada Strong Pass
- Free admission to all Parks Canada national parks, marine conservation areas and historic sites. Many sites and activities do still require reservations though — with the most popular spots filling up fast — so visit their website to confirm.
- 25 per cent discount on Parks Canada camping fees (including tents, RVs, cabins, yurts, tipis, microcubes, oTENTiks, Ôasis, and historic and overnight backcountry stays)
- Kids aged 17 and under will travel for free on Via Rail if travelling with an adult. Youngsters aged 18-24 will get a 25 per cent discount.
- Participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries will offer half-priced tickets for young people aged 18-24, and free admission for those under 17 years old
- While free entry is the name of the Canada Strong Pass game, some parks and historical sites may also be offering additional discounts and deals. Check out their website directly to see if there are any additional bonus offers for on-site experiences or tours.
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What’s Not Included
- Admission to provincial or territorial parks
- Admission to Sépaq parks in Québec
- Admission to municipal and private parks
- Admission to any parks or historic sites not operated by Parks Canada
- Some Parks Canada locations are run by third-party groups so visitors may still have to pay applicable fees.
- On top of that, here’s a list of extra fees to consider while planning your Parks Canada visit: mooring, programs not usually included with admission, firewood, permits and parking
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Where You Can Use the Canada Strong Pass
British Columbia
With its clear, odourless mineral water, Radium Hot Springs in Kootenay National Park is a hot-spring rarity — no eggy sulfur smell here!
Yukon
Klondike National Historic Sites
Be the star of your own Western while walking the old timey boardwalks of historic Dawson City. Explore the goldfields and the Commissioner’s residence and imagine life during the days of the Klondike Gold Rush.
Nova Scotia
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
The northern tip of the iconic Cabot Trail winds along the picturesque cliffs and forested hills of Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Spot a moose amongst the trees or a humpback out at sea.
Manitoba
Canadian Museum for Human Rights
Located at the intersection of the Red and Assiniboine Rivers in Winnipeg, the eye-catching Canadian Museum for Human Rights celebrates the progress of humanity.
Ontario
Fathom Five National Marine Park
There’s more to Georgian Bay than craggy rock formations. Dive below Lake Huron’s blue waters at Fathom Five National Marine Park and explore 24 world-renowned scuba diving shipwreck sites.
