The Canada Strong Pass: What You Need To Know

Every summer, Canadians face the same dilemma with what to do with their precious summer month: enjoy the city, head out to a nearby lake or the family cabin - or go a bit further from home and explore the many parks and attractions our beautiful country has to offer.

This year, the federal government is making that choice a whole lot easier with the Canada Strong Pass, a summer-long program offering free access to national parks and discounted access to hundreds of attractions across the country.

But what exactly is this pass, and how can you make the most of it?

No Pass Required

Despite its name, the Canada Strong Pass isn't actually a physical pass you need to purchase, sign up for, or download. Think of it more as a nationwide summer promotion running from June 20 to September 2, 2025.

Just show up at participating locations and enjoy the savings automatically. No registration hassles, no forgotten passes at home, no apps to download. Just pack up the family and go.

What's Included

Apart from free admission at all national parks, the Canada Strong Pass also covers a broad range of attractions and services across the country. Here's what you can expect:

Parks Canada Sites

• Free admission for everyone to all national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas
• 25% discount on camping fees, including everything from basic tent sites to oTENTiks, cabins, and historic stays
• Free lockage at Parks Canada canals on historic waterways

Museums and Galleries

• Free admission for kids 17 and under at all national museums
• 50% discount for young adults aged 18-24
• Participating provincial and territorial museums offering similar discounts

VIA Rail

• Free travel for children 17 and under when accompanied by an adult
• 25% discount for young adults aged 18-24
• Valid on Escape and Economy fares across all routes

Why not both?

Planning a road trip to your cabin or cottage? Why not break up the drive with a stop at a national historic site along the way - it won't cost you a penny extra. Taking the grandkids to the cabin for a week? A free side trip to a nearby national park could be the highlight of their summer.

The Fine Print

While the program is simple, there are a few details worth noting:

What's NOT included:

• Provincial parks (your regular provincial park pass is still needed)
• Private campgrounds or attractions
• Parking fees at some locations
• Firewood, fishing licenses, and other extras
• Reservation fees (though the camping discount does apply to your site fee)

Timing is everything: The program runs from June 20 to September 2, 2025. If you've already booked Parks Canada camping for those dates, you'll automatically receive a refund for the discount amount.

Capacity limits: Popular destinations may reach capacity, especially on long weekends. The free admission doesn't guarantee entry if a park is full, so arrive early at sought-after spots.

Already Made Plans?

If you've already booked your summer travel, you might be eligible for refunds:

• Parks Canada camping: You'll receive an email about refunds as your reservation date approaches
• VIA Rail: Complete their online refund request form
• Museums: Most will automatically refund pre-purchased tickets for eligible visitors

Make The Most Of The Canada Strong Pass

With everyone having access, popular destinations will likely be busier than usual. Here's how to make the most of the program:

1. Go midweek: Avoid weekend crowds at popular parks
2. Explore lesser-known sites: This is the perfect opportunity to discover hidden gems
3. Book camping early: The 25% discount is great, but sites will fill up fast - and are likely already filled
4. Combine destinations: Plan routes that include multiple free attractions
5. Check operating hours: Some sites have limited summer hours despite free admission

Northern Destinations

For those venturing to Canada's northern parks, the program includes some special provisions. Select locations in Nunavut, Northwest Territories, and Yukon that normally charge backcountry fees are waiving day-use fees and offering 25% off overnight backcountry camping.

At a time when everything seems to be getting more expensive, the Canada Strong Pass is a welcome relief. It's designed to make travel more accessible, especially for families with children and young adults who often face the highest costs when exploring.

The program also helps explore the incredible natural and cultural treasures we have right here at home. From the mountain peaks of the Rockies to the historic sites of the Maritimes, from pristine northern wilderness to world-class museums in our cities, Canada offers experiences that rival anything you'll find around the globe.

Summer 2025 is shaping up to be the perfect time to explore this country we call home. After all, adventures don't have to be expensive to be memorable - sometimes the best experiences are the ones waiting in our own backyard.

The only question that remains: where will you go first?