Discover Prince Edward Island National Park
Situated along the picturesque coastline of Canada’s eastern province lies a natural treasure waiting to be discovered: Prince Edward Island National Park. With its stunning vistas, pristine beaches, and diverse ecosystems, this park embodies the enchanting beauty of Maritime Canada. Established in 1937, Prince Edward Island National Park encompasses over 60 kilometers of shoreline along the Gulf of St. Lawrence, offering visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich natural heritage.
The park’s landscape is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, from towering dunes to lush woodlands. Explore winding trails that lead to secluded coves, where the sound of crashing waves harmonizes with the cries of seabirds overhead. Immerse yourself in the island’s history and culture as you stroll through quaint coastal villages and encounter remnants of its maritime past.
Top 3 Facts About Prince Edward Island National Park
01
Sand Dunes
The park’s iconic sand dunes reach impressive heights, with some towering up to 30 meters (98 feet) above sea level. These dunes are among the tallest in Atlantic Canada and provide critical habitat for unique plant and animal species.
02
Species Diversity
Prince Edward Island National Park is home to over 300 species of plants, more than 300 species of birds, and numerous mammals, reptiles, and amphibians. The park’s rich biodiversity contributes to its status as a globally significant conservation area.
03
Yearly Visitors
Annually, the park welcomes over 500,000 visitors to explore its natural beauty, engage in outdoor activities, and learn about the island’s cultural heritage. Whether enjoying a stroll along the shoreline or embarking on a wilderness adventure, visitors contribute to the park’s vibrant atmosphere and conservation efforts.
Camping and transportation in Prince Edward Island National Park
Backcountry camping permits required for wilderness camping opportunities.
How to Get to Prince Edward Island National Park
Prince Edward Island National Park is easily accessible by various means of transportation:
- By Car: The most common way to reach the park is by car. Prince Edward Island is connected to the mainland of Canada by the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick or by ferry service from Nova Scotia. Once on the island, the park is easily accessible via well-marked roads.
- By Air: Charlottetown Airport (YYG) is the main airport on the island, offering domestic flights from major Canadian cities such as Toronto, Montreal, and Halifax. Visitors can rent a car from the airport or take a taxi to the national park, typically less than an hour’s drive away.
- By Ferry: If you prefer a scenic route, you can take a ferry from Caribou, Nova Scotia, to Wood Islands, Prince Edward Island. From there, it’s a short drive to the park.
Places to Stay Near Prince Edward Island National Park
There are several campgrounds near Prince Edward Island National Park where visitors can enjoy a variety of camping experiences. Here are a few options:
- Cavendish Campground: Located within Prince Edward Island National Park, Cavendish Campground offers both serviced and unserviced campsites for tents and RVs. It’s conveniently situated near the park’s main attractions, including Cavendish Beach, and provides showers, washrooms, laundry facilities, and playgrounds.
- Stanley Bridge Campground & RV Park: This campground is just a short drive from Prince Edward Island National Park. It offers a range of camping options, from tent sites to full-service RV sites, as well as cabin rentals. Amenities include laundry facilities, showers, playgrounds, and a heated swimming pool.
- Rustico Resort RV Campground & Cottages: Situated near Rustico Harbour, this campground provides a peaceful setting for camping near the national park. It offers RV sites with full hookups, tent sites and cozy cottages. Guests can enjoy amenities like a heated swimming pool, playground, laundry facilities, and kayak rentals.
Driving
The park features a network of well-maintained roads that provide access to various points of interest, scenic overlooks, beaches, and trailheads. Driving within the park allows visitors to easily and conveniently explore its diverse landscapes, from coastal dunes to lush forests.
Public
For visitors relying on public transportation, reaching the park may require a combination of buses, taxis, or other transportation methods to get as close as possible to the park’s entrances. Once near the park, visitors may need to walk or cycle to explore its various attractions, trails, and beaches.
Parking
The park offers designated parking areas near popular sites such as beaches, picnic areas, and trailheads.
Best Time to Go to Prince Edward Island National Park
Summer
Summer is the peak season for visiting Prince Edward Island National Park and for a good reason. From July to August, the park comes alive with activity as visitors flock to its sandy beaches, including Cavendish Beach and Brackley Beach, to soak up the sun and swim in the refreshing waters of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The warm weather also provides ideal conditions for kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing along the coast. Hiking and cycling enthusiasts can explore the park’s trails, including the Greenwich Dunes Trail, which offers stunning coastline views and diverse ecosystems. Families can enjoy ranger-led programs, beachside picnics, and wildlife spotting throughout the summer.
Winter
While winter may not be the busiest time to visit Prince Edward Island National Park, it offers a unique and tranquil experience for those seeking solitude amidst the snow-covered landscapes. The park’s trails transform into winter wonderlands from December to March, perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks along deserted beaches, where the crashing waves create mesmerizing ice formations along the shore. Birdwatchers may still spot hardy species such as snowy owls and wintering waterfowl braving the cold. Winter photography enthusiasts will find ample opportunities to capture the park’s serene beauty under a blanket of snow, making it a magical time to explore for those willing to brave the chilly temperatures.
Spring
Spring is a delightful time to visit Prince Edward Island National Park as nature awakens from its winter slumber. From April to June, the park bursts into vibrant colors as wildflowers bloom along the trails and shorelines. Temperatures are mild, perfect for hiking and exploring the park’s extensive trail network. Birdwatching enthusiasts will delight in the return of migratory birds to the island, with opportunities to spot species such as piping plovers and warblers. Additionally, spring is an excellent time for beachcombing along the pristine shores and enjoying peaceful picnics amidst the emerging greenery.
Fall
Fall brings a spectacular display of autumn colors to Prince Edward Island National Park, making it a picturesque time to visit. From September to November, the park’s forests transform into red, orange, and gold tapestry as the leaves change. Hiking becomes even more enchanting as visitors traverse trails blanketed in colorful foliage, such as the Robinsons Island Trail and the Homestead Trail. Fall is also an excellent time for birdwatching as migratory birds begin their journey south, and visitors may catch glimpses of bald eagles, shorebirds, and waterfowl along the coast. The cooler temperatures make outdoor activities like cycling, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives along the park’s coastal roads comfortable.
Must-See Attractions
Helpful Tips: Making the Most of Your Adventure to Prince Edward Island National Park
Plan Ahead
Research the park’s attractions, activities, and amenities before your visit to ensure you don’t miss out on anything. Check the park’s official website for information on hours of operation, trail conditions, and any special events or programs.
Pack Essentials
Be sure to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, water, snacks, and appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activities. Packing a map or downloading offline maps is also a good idea for limited cellular service.
Respect Wildlife
Prince Edward Island National Park is home to various wildlife, including endangered species such as piping plovers. Respect their habitat by observing from a distance, refraining from feeding wildlife, and following any posted guidelines.
Explore Beyond the Beaches
While the park’s beaches are stunning, don’t overlook its inland areas, which offer opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring diverse ecosystems such as forests, wetlands, and sand dunes.
Frequently Asked Questions about Prince Edward Island National Park
At PEI National Park, whether you’re an avid hiker, a bird-watcher, or love the beach, there’s something for you. You can explore extensive walking trails, pedal along the paved multi-use trail for cycling, or unwind on one of their beautiful beaches.
For campers, PEI National Park offers a range of options. You can set up your tent at a traditional campsite, book a spot in a more secluded area, or even try out oTENTik accommodations, which combine a cabin’s comfort with the rustic tenting experience.
Located along the north coast of Prince Edward Island, the park extends from Cavendish to North Rustico and Brackley to Dalvay, including parts of the Greenwich peninsula. To navigate various park sectors, use mapped directions and follow signage from the nearest communities.
Yes, you will find entrance fees for accessing PEI National Park. Rates vary depending on whether you’re visiting as an individual, a family, or a group, and you can choose between daily or seasonal passes. Check the Parks Canada website for the most recent fee structure before you visit.
To maximize your visit, start at a visitor center to grab maps and the schedule for interpretive programs. Check the park’s condition reports for closures or advisories, and don’t miss walking on the floating boardwalks, visiting Green Gables, or discovering Greenwich Dunes.
While specific annual visitation numbers can fluctuate, PEI National Park consistently attracts a significant number of visitors each year. This reflects its popularity as a prime destination for experiencing a diverse mix of ecosystems and the island’s cultural heritage.