With Canada Day quickly approaching, we wanted to take some time to reflect on the wealth of our National Parks - coast to coast. These vast spaces of protected land are what makes Canada beautiful and unique. Here are some of the coolest facts we found that you may have not known about our parks.
Fundy National Park has the world’s highest tides
Yes, you read that right - the WORLD'S highest tides. The tides in the Bay of Fundy ride up to fifteen metres! That's four times that of the average tide, which is about 4 metres. When the tide recedes, the inter-tidal zone is full of life worth checking out - be sure to check the tide schedules before you plan your visit.
Image from http://www.michellevalberg.com/sable-island-horses/
Sable National Park has a population of 505, and it's not what you think
The Sable National Park is on an island off the coast of Nova Scotia, and has a population of 500 - 500 wild horses and 5 humans that is. The island is one of Canada's furthest offshore islands and can only be accessed via boat or plane and you must register in advance. This would truly be the trip of a lifetime.
Canada’s National Parks were the first in the world
Banff National Park is a mere 18 years younger than our country. Parks Canada was founded in 1911, making it the first dedicated parc branch in the world where conservationists work directly with the holders of indigenous knowledge to protect and maintain these natural jewels. Lead the way, Canada!
Image from https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/256/
The World’s Second Biggest National Park is in Canada
The Wood Buffalo Park spans 45,000 square kilometres and is second only to Northeast Greenland National Park (which is 972,000 kilometres!). Wood Buffalo Park, located in Northern Alberta and The Northwest Territories, is home to a huge bison population and is also a natural nesting place for the whooping crane.
Canada has urban national parks too
Just outside of Toronto is the Rouge National Urban Park. 50 square kilometres of marsh, forest, meadow, farmland and nearly 2,000 species of plants and birds. It’s also the location of Toronto’s only campground and Lake Ontario beach.
Canada's National Parks are the crown jewels of our country. Protecting these lands, and supporting them is paramount to preserving our land and our history. Looking to plan a local getaway this summer? Check out the Parks Canada trip planner to get started, and don't forget to bring along your Wild Life Outdoor Adventure Kits!
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