The 2022 summer visitor season officially kicks off at Parks Canada Mainland Nova Scotia sites!

Get ready to make some memories while you discover nature and connect with history

HALIFAX, NS, May 17, 2022 /CNW/ - The network of protected areas administered by Parks Canada is a gateway to nature, history, and 450 000 km² of memories from coast to coast to coast.

Parks Canada is pleased to welcome visitors to Mainland Nova Scotia for the 2022 visitor season. Here are some visitor experience highlights:

Interactive digital tables featured in the new Fortress Halifax exhibit, Halifax Citadel National Historic Site Photo Credit: Parks Canada Photographer: Aaron McKenzie Fraser (CNW Group/Parks Canada)

• Halifax Citadel National Historic Site – new signature exhibit:
  Fortress Halifax: A City Shaped by Conflict chronicles the history of Kjipuktuk, through its establishment as "Halifax" in 1749, to the mosaic of a city that it is today. The exhibit recounts fascinating stories of the people here – the Mi'kmaq, and settlers of British, French, Acadian, Black Loyalist, and other immigrant cultures, told through the lens of the four forts that stood atop Citadel Hill. Visitors of all ages will enjoy the accessible and experiential nature of this multi-room exhibit. Season opened May 7.
  
  
• Georges Island National Historic Site - opening weekends, June 11 to October 9:
  Don't miss the opportunity to visit this special gem located in the heart of Kjipuktuk, "The Great Harbour." Enjoy scenic views from a new perspective and immerse yourself in the rich history of Halifax with a guided tour. The ferry to Georges Island is available for booking now with Ambassatours! Season opens June 11.
  
  
• Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site – new, and newly-improved, trails:
  The new multi-use Ukme'k Trail, meaning 'twisted' in Mi'kmaw, meanders along the Mersey River connecting the campground with popular day-use areas. Visitors will enjoy 6.3 km of twists and turns with optional mountain bike features, crossing the new Mill Falls Bridge and the inclusive rainbow crosswalk. Rentals available onsite at Whynot Adventure, the Keji Outfitters. Kejimkujik Seaside National Park, on the Atlantic coast, offers a wild and isolated stretch of coastline with white sand and turquoise water. The newly revitalized Port Joli Head Trail reopens in June following extensive trail work that will help mitigate against future damage caused by climate change.
  
  
• Port-Royal National Historic Site and Fort Anne National Historic Site – guides are your key;
• At Port-Royal, a new immersive experience will be offered called A Meeting with the Governor. Visitors take on the role of a new colonist that is arriving at the Habitation to receive their orders for work. What better way to understand the life of a colonist and their relationship with the Mi'kmaq. Season opens May 20.
• At Fort Anne, Acadian Tours and Vauban Fortification Tours are offered daily, while White Glove Tours of the extensive collection of artefacts can be pre-booked in advance. Season opens May 20.

Parks Canada places provide the perfect setting for memorable and safe experiences. Whether they're looking for adventure, fun for the whole family, a chance to explore nature and history, or a break from the everyday, there are countless unique experiences to suit every visitor's needs. 

The Parks Canada website provides detailed information on what visitors can expect, how to prepare for a visit, and what services may be available. Visitors are asked to plan ahead by checking the website before they travel, to respect the guidance of public health experts, and to follow all signage and direction from site employees.

Quotes

"As Canadians, we are fortunate to live in a country with such diverse landscapes and rich history. Every one of the protected areas within the Parks Canada network of sites is a perfect gateway to discovering, learning about, and connecting with natural and cultural heritage. As summer approaches, I encourage all Canadians to get out and walk in the footsteps of history and enjoy the important physical and mental benefits of being outdoors."

The Honourable Steven Guilbeault
Minister of Environment and Climate Change and Minister responsible for Parks Canada

"Parks Canada prides itself on providing visitors with high quality and meaningful experiences across the country. The Parks Canada team works extremely hard to ensure that each and every person leaves with memories that will last a lifetime. We are excited to welcome new and returning visitors back to national parks and national historic sites this season, to help them create new memories and discover everything that these treasured places have to offer."

Ron Hallman
President and Chief Executive Officer, Parks Canada

Quick Facts

• Electric vehicle charging stations are available for visitors to use at Halifax Citadel NHS, Kejimkujik NPNHS (visitor centre), and Fort Anne NHS.
• The Parks Canada Discovery Pass provides unlimited admission for a full year to over 80 destinations across the country. Visitors can purchase their Parks Canada Discovery Passes online, on-site, and at partner retailer locations across the country.

Related Links

• Halifax Citadel National Historic Site
• Georges Island National Historic Site
• Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site
• Port-Royal National Historic Site
• Fort Anne National Historic Site
• Parks Canada website
• Parks Canada mobile application
• The complete guide to visiting Parks Canada
• Top tips to respect wildlife and stay safe
• Parks Canada Discovery Pass
• Parks Canada Reservation Service
• Parks Canada Shop

SOURCE Parks Canada

Kaitlin Power, Press Secretary, Office of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change, 819-230-1557, [email protected]; Media Relations, Parks Canada Agency, 855-862-1812, [email protected]; Alicia Brett, Communications Officer, Mainland Nova Scotia, Parks Canada, 902-478-5146, [email protected]