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Point Pelee National Park: Canada's Southern Oasis

Discover Canada's southernmost mainland point: a haven for birds, butterflies, and breathtaking natural beauty on the shores of Lake Erie.

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Point Pelee National Park, the southernmost point of mainland Canada, is a narrow 15-square-kilometer peninsula extending into Lake Erie. Established in 1918, it's renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, especially its migratory birds, and offers a unique blend of beaches, forests, and marshlands.

A brief summary to Point Pelee National Park

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or fall migration to witness the incredible diversity of birdlife passing through Point Pelee.
  • Take the free shuttle to the Tip during peak season (April to October) to avoid traffic and parking hassles.
  • Bring binoculars and a field guide to enhance your birdwatching experience.
  • Check the park's website for seasonal hours of operation and special events.
  • Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as Lake Erie can influence the local climate.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Point Pelee National Park is located south of Leamington, Ontario. From Highway 401, take exit 48 (County Road 35/Highway 77) south towards Leamington. Follow Highway 77 to County Road 33, turn left (east), and then turn right onto County Road 20. Follow County Road 20 for a short distance to Bevel Line, turn left, and follow Bevel Line/Point Pelee Drive to the park entrance. Parking is available at the Visitor Centre, Marsh Boardwalk, and other locations throughout the park. Parking is included with admission. Expect to pay CAD$30-40 for a taxi from Leamington.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct public transit to Point Pelee National Park, you can take a VIA Rail train to Windsor and then transfer to a Transit Windsor bus to Leamington. From Leamington, you can use Leamington's On-Demand Transit to get to Robson Road and Turn Around Circle. From there, it is approximately a 30-minute bike ride or a two-hour walk to the park. Alternatively, taxis are available in Leamington. A taxi from Leamington to the park will cost approximately CAD$30-40.

  • Shuttle

    During peak season (April to October), a free shuttle service operates from the Visitor Centre to the Tip area. This is the most convenient way to access the southern tip of the park, as private vehicles are restricted from driving to the Tip during these months. The shuttle runs frequently, approximately every 20 minutes, and the ride takes about 7 minutes. The shuttle is wheelchair accessible.

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Discover more about Point Pelee National Park

Point Pelee National Park, a slender finger of land reaching into Lake Erie, holds the distinction of being the southernmost point of mainland Canada. Established in 1918, the park's 15 square kilometers encompass a remarkable range of habitats, from sandy beaches and lush forests to sprawling marshlands. For centuries, Point Pelee has been a place of significance. First Nations people settled here as early as 600 CE, drawn to the area's abundant resources. French explorers in the 17th century named it "Pointe-Pelée" (bald point). In 1918, it became Canada's first national park created to protect a specific ecological area, rather than for tourism. Today, Point Pelee is a haven for nature lovers. Birdwatchers flock here, especially during the spring and fall migrations, to witness the passage of over 370 different species. The park also serves as a crucial stopover for monarch butterflies. Visitors can explore the park's diverse landscapes via hiking trails, boardwalks, and canoe routes. The Tip Tower, a 24-meter structure near the peninsula's end, offers panoramic views. Point Pelee is also a designated Dark Sky Preserve, offering stunning views of the night sky. While exploring the park, keep an eye out for the diverse plant and animal life that call Point Pelee home. From the towering trees of the Carolinian forest to the delicate orchids in the marsh, the park is a treasure trove of natural wonders.

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