British Columbia is home to some of the most stunning national parks, and newcomers to Canada get to enjoy them for free.
Through Canoo, a mobile app, newcomers to Canada and new Canadian citizens can take advantage of free admission to all places administered by Parks Canada for one full year.
Specifically, this benefit is available to permanent resident cardholders, citizenship certificate holders, and international students. You will need your Canadian-issued ID document to create an account, so keep it handy before you sign up.
Newcomers to BC have free access to all national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas operated by Parks Canada. BC boasts seven national parks, one national marine conservation area, and over 90 national historic sites.
Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve (N Osborne/Parks Canada)
Those in Metro Vancouver can visit the Gulf of Georgia Cannery National Historic Site in Richmond or the Fort Langley National Historic Site, a Hudson’s Bay Company fur trading post.
Explore Parks Canada sites
Use the “Map View” in the Canoo app to quickly check out all the places in Canada that you can visit for free. You will see Parks Canada sites on the map, as well.
If you’re ready for an adventure and love all things free, be sure to visit these gorgeous national parks across BC:
Yoho National Park
If you’re planning a trip to Banff in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, be sure to first stop by Yoho National Park, located on the western slopes of the Rockies.
It’s a beautiful place to watch wildlife, have a picnic, canoe in the lake, and hike one of the many trails. The most famous trail, Lake Emerald trail, circles the turquoise-coloured Emerald Lake, with a nearby natural stone bridge you won’t want to miss.
It’s also common to camp overnight at Yoho, so be sure to reserve a spot and get the appropriate permit from their website prior to visiting. There are four campgrounds to choose from, with two locations offering firepits.
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Located on the west coast of Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is a haven for surfers, kayakers, and beachcombers. The park is divided into three regions: Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail.
- Long Beach: Known for its sandy beaches and excellent surf, it’s a great spot for beach walks and marine wildlife watching.
- Broken Group Islands: A kayaker’s paradise, this cluster of over 100 small islands offers sheltered waterways and rich marine life.
- West Coast Trail: A challenging 75-km backpacking route along the coast, known for its beautiful scenery and historical significance.
Be sure to also check out the Nuu-chah-nulth’s rich history, traditions, and culture during your visit.
Glacier National Park
Nestled in the heart of the Columbia Mountains, Glacier National Park is renowned for its alpine landscapes and diverse wildlife.
Rogers Pass, a National Historic Site, offers stunning views and a glimpse into the history of the Canadian Pacific Railway. The park features over 140 km of hiking trails, including the challenging Asulkan Valley Trail and the more accessible Hemlock Grove Boardwalk.
Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve
Located on the remote Haida Gwaii archipelago, this unique park offers a blend of cultural and natural wonders. This lush rainforest is home to bald eagles, salmon, whales, and sea lions, all scattered across a deeply spiritual and remote landscape.
Visit sites like SG̱ang Gwaay Llnagaay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to see ancient totem poles and learn about Haida culture. You can also choose to kayak the coastline and remote islands, enjoying the views while on the water.
Kootenay National Park
Located in southeastern BC, Kootenay National Park offers a stunning mix of towering peaks, lush valleys, and soothing hot springs. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, providing a variety of activities and scenic wonders.
One of the park’s highlights is Radium Hot Springs, where visitors can relax in the natural hot mineral waters after a day of exploration. The springs are a perfect way to unwind and enjoy the surrounding mountain views.
Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
This park offers free admission to all guests for day use, so there’s no need to rush your visit.
But whether you’re paddling through serene waters, hiking to panoramic viewpoints, observing wildlife, or simply unwinding on a peaceful beach, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve offers a selection of activities and experiences. It’s a perfect destination to connect with nature and explore the unique landscapes and culture of the southern Gulf Islands.
Step-by-step guide to Canoo
We’ve created a step-by-step guide for you, listing all the things you’ll need to activate a one-year Canoo membership and start planning your adventures.
For this article, we’ll use the example of someone holding a Canadian citizenship certificate
Step 1: Download the app
Head to the App Store or Google Play to download the app on your phone.
Raxana Sun/Daily Hive
Step 2: Create an account
You will be asked to enter your email address to create an account. Once you’ve done that, you’ll receive an email with a link to log in.
Do not click the “login” button in the email from a different device. Go to your phone’s email app or web browser and click on it.
Imaan Sheikh/Daily Hive
Step 3: Submit your status
Next, you’ll see a welcome screen and be directed to pick the category of newcomer you are according to your government-issued ID document.
Imaan Sheikh/Daily Hive
Step 4: Scan your ID document
Now, you must allow the app access to your camera and scan the document.
For citizenship certificates, you’ll need to scan the information on the back of your document under oath. This info includes your name, gender, date of birth, effective date of citizenship, and UCI.
Make sure to scan the document in a well-lit area.
You can also enter the information manually, but verifying it will take a few business days.
Imaan Sheikh/Daily Hive
Step 5: Verifying your identity
You’ll be asked to recheck your information. Click on “Yes, this looks correct” if everything checks out. If not, contact app support.
Then, you’ll have to answer a few questions about your country of origin, your time in Canada, the number of children in your house, your preferred language of communication, your postal code, and finally, how you found out about Canoo.
Hit “Submit” after you’re done.
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Step 6: Activate your membership
You’re not just done yet. An account has been set up for you, but activating your one-year membership is a click away.
The membership begins the moment you click, and you can activate it at a later date.
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You’re in!
Congratulations! You are now a Canooer.
This membership allows you to “over 2,000 of Canada’s coolest natural and cultural experiences,” including Parks Canada sites, museums, and science centres.
Expect great deals from Canadian brands, discounted and free tickets, and other entertainment activities, too.
Will you be visiting a national park this summer? Let us know below.
With files from Daily Hive’s Imaan Sheikh