Parks Canada, the world’s first national service dedicated to parks and national historic sites, is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year.
The first national park was created in Banff in 1885 – 26 years before the establishment of Parks Canada – and even today remains the most popular park in the country.
Parks Canada spans the nation, working to ensure that Canada’s natural and historic treasures are protected and presented for the enjoyment, education and benefit of all Canadians.
Many are considered UNESCO world heritage sites, including the four national parks – Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho – that make up the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, the Nahanni National Park Reserve in Northwest Territories, and Dinosaur Provincial Park in Calgary Alberta.
For those who wish to discover a new national park in Canada, remember that July 16 is ‘Parks Day’ with free entry to all national parks, and special events and fun for the whole family.
For more information on Parks Canada centennial celebrations, visit the Parks Canada website.