13 Places to Use the Canada Strong Pass in B.C. This Summer

For many British Columbians, travel in 2025 means staying closer to home. The Canadian Government just launched the Canada Strong Pass to encourage Canadians to explore Canada’s natural beauty and rich history. From June 20 to September 2, Canadians and visitors can enjoy free or discounted admission to national parks, historic sites, national museums (and participating provincial and territorial museums) around the country.

There’s no physical pass needed—all you have to do is show up. On top of free admission to national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas managed by Parks Canada, there’s also a 25 percent discount on camping fees. With so many outdoors adventures on offer in B.C. (perfect for the hikers and campers), here’s long list of the parks managed by Parks Canada where you can use the Canada Strong Pass around the province.

Parks in B.C. to Visit this Summer with the Canada Strong Pass

Here’s all the national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas in B.C. where you can get in for free and camp at a discounted rate this summer.

1. Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site

Near the Alaskan and Yukon border is the Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site. Ideal for experienced hikers, traverse the roughly 26 kilometres of rugged trail used by the Chilkoot Tlingit traders and later the Klondike Gold Rush stampeders to reach the Chilkoot Pass—also the international border to the United States.

2. Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard National Historic Sites

For a (free) family-friendly historic day in Victoria, head to Fort Rodd Hill, a 19th century artillery fortress, and the Fisgard Lighthouse, the oldest lighthouse on Canada’s west coast.

3. Fort Langley National Historic Site

Just over an hour drive from Vancouver is Fort Langley, a national historic site on the banks of the Fraser River. Experience historic re-enactments or keep with kids busy with the activities on offer at the former Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading post.

4. Fort St. James National Historic Site

Visit another former Hudson’s Bay trading post for free in B.C. at the Fort St. James National Historic Site, where you’ll find Canada’s largest collection of wooden buildings restored to the fur trade era.

5. Gitwangak Battle Hill National Historic Site

Enjoy the beautiful valley scenery at the historic site of Gitwangak Battle Hill, located along the Kitwanga River. Walk along the self-guided trail or view the totem poles at Gitwangak Village a few kilometres south of the historic site.

6. Glacier National Park

There’s a hike for everybody’s preference at B.C.’s iconic Glacier National Park, whether its the mountain trails or rolling meadows. Or, learn about the history of the Rogers Pass, where the final link connected Canada’s railway.

7. Gulf Islands National Park Reserve

Surround yourself with the wildlife of the Salish sea at the Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, whether it’s an overnight camping trip or just a leisurely walk with the family.

8. Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site

Located in Steveston, Richmond, is one of the few restored fishing canneries. With activities for the whole family, watch canning machines from the 1930s-1950s in action or take a guided tour of more than 4,000 square feet of the restored cannery.

9. Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve and Haida Heritage Site

Walk amid the lush rainforest of the Gwaii Haanas national park and marine conservation area reserve in the serene, remote landscape. Spot local wildlife like bald eagles or wild salmon kayaking close to nature, or explore the ancient Haida village site to learn about the traditional Indigenous history.

10. Kootenay National Park

At the Kootenay National Park, revel in the Canadian Rockies or enjoy one of B.C.’s best natural hot springs.

11. Mount Revelstoke National Park

Head inland to Mount Revelstoke’s renowned wildflower meadows or summit the park’s namesake mountain.

12. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Along the west coast of Vancouver Island is the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, close to destinations like Tofino or Ucluelet. Set up at sandy beaches ready ideal for surfing or hike the 75-kilometre West Coast trail.

13. Yoho National Park

Discover the beautiful lakes and waterfalls of Yoho National Park. Whether its guided hikes to learn about the park’s diverse ecosystems and fossils, or a trip to the serene Lake O’Hara, Yoho National Park has both scenery and history to enjoy for the whole family.

 

Learn more about the Canada Strong Pass at www.canada.ca/en/canadian-heritage/campaigns/canada-pass