Free Summer Access to Banff National Park Starts June 20
In a move aimed at boosting tourism and promoting national unity, the Canadian government has announced that it will be offering free admission to all national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada from June 20 to September 2. The initiative, known as the Canada Strong Pass, is part of a federal election campaign promise and is designed to make it easier for families to explore the country’s natural beauty, culture, and history.
According to a news release from RM Outlook, the Canada Strong Pass will provide free admission to all visitors to national historic sites, national parks, and national marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada. This includes busy Banff National Park, which attracts millions of visitors each year. In addition to free admission, the pass will also offer a 25 per cent discount on camping fees.
The Canada Strong Pass is open to all visitors, whether they are Canadian or coming from abroad. RM Outlook reports that no registration or physical pass is necessary; visitors can simply show up and enjoy the benefits offered at participating establishments. The pass also includes free admission for children aged 17 and under and a 50 per cent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24 for national museums and the Plains of Abraham Museum.
Steven Guilbeault, the federal Canadian Identity and Culture Minister, whose portfolio includes Parks Canada, said that the Canada Strong Pass aims to make it easier for families to choose Canada as a summer destination. "Our Canada Strong Pass aims to make it even easier for families to choose Canada – to discover the beauty of our country, connect with nature, and enjoy our culture all summer long," he said in a news release, as reported by RM Outlook. "Whether it’s visiting a national park they always wanted to see, exploring a museum, or booking a camping trip, families can create lasting memories together. Canadians are proud of what defines us, and this pass is about celebrating a strong, united Canada."
The Canada Strong Pass is also expected to benefit the national economy. According to RM Outlook, visitors to Parks Canada administered places help generate $4 billion to the national GDP and spend the equivalent of more than $11 million every day in communities across the country. With 171 national historic sites, 48 national parks, five national marine conservation areas, and one national urban park, Parks Canada’s vast reach provides services in over 200 locations across Canada, in every province and territory, rural, urban, and northern.
In addition to the benefits offered by the Canada Strong Pass, RM Outlook reports that Parks Canada Discovery Passes already purchased and valid for the months of June, July, and August 2025 will be extended for an additional three months. The pass will also offer free travel for children aged 17 and under when accompanied by an adult and a 25 per cent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24 on VIA Rail. Selected participating provincial and territorial museums and galleries will also offer free admission for children and a 50 per cent discount for young adults aged 18 to 24.
The Canada Strong Pass is a significant initiative aimed at promoting tourism and national unity in Canada. As reported by RM Outlook, the pass is open to all visitors and offers a range of benefits, including free admission to national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas, as well as discounts on camping fees, rail travel, and museum admission. With its vast reach and economic benefits, the Canada Strong Pass is an initiative that is expected to have a significant impact on the country’s tourism industry and national identity.
