Parks Canada will waive entry fees for all national parks, historic sites and marine conservation areas, including Banff National Park, from June 20 to Sept. 2 under a new federal initiative called the “Canada Strong Pass.”
The measure, announced June 16, fulfills a federal election campaign promise and is intended to encourage families to explore Canada’s natural and cultural heritage during the summer.
The initiative applies to all visitors, regardless of nationality, and covers Parks Canada’s extensive network, which includes 171 national historic sites, 48 national parks, five national marine conservation areas and one national urban park.
According to Parks Canada, visitors to these sites contribute approximately CA$4 billion to Canada’s GDP and spend more than CA$11 million daily in local communities nationwide.
Steven Guilbeault, the federal Canadian Identity and Culture Minister, said the pass reflects Canadians’ unity and pride in their national identity.
“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,” Guilbeault said, as reported by Rocky Mountain Outlook on June 16.
Visitors with valid Parks Canada Discovery Passes for June, July and August 2025 will receive an automatic three-month extension as part of the program.
In addition to free entry, the pass offers a 25% discount on camping fees within national parks during the same period.
The Canada Strong Pass provides added benefits for children and young adults visiting national museums and selected provincial and territorial museums and galleries.
Children aged 17 and under receive free admission, while young adults aged 18 to 24 receive a 50% discount on admission at participating locations and museums, including the Plains of Abraham Museum.
Families traveling with VIA Rail will also benefit: children aged 17 and under can travel for free when accompanied by an adult, and young adults receive a 25% discount.
No registration or physical pass is required to access the benefits; visitors simply need to arrive at participating sites to receive free entry and discounts.