Kouchibouguac National Park of Canada
Join the Celebrations right here in your backyard!
MONCTON, NEW BRUNSWICK, May 16, 2011 – On May 20th Kouchibouguac National Park will be welcoming its spring visitors for another exciting season. Parks Canada is marking its 100th birthday and Kouchibouguac National Park is inviting you to be part of the Celebrations right here in your backyard!
The celebrations begin this weekend with the opening of our campground and Kouchibouguac Star Fest, a weekend of fun stargazing activities for the whole family. Under the unique Dark Sky of Kouchibouguac, catch a glimpse of Saturn and Moon craters, peer at the Milky Way, and spot distant galaxies, nebulae and star clusters – all with the help of astronomers from the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. A full schedule of activities is planned including a meteorite search equipment demo and hands-on “Telescope 101” clinic.
Dust off the fleece, bike and camping gear and get a start on the delights of spring hiking, cycling and camping this weekend. This year visitors will have a new option for camping comforts thanks to the addition of electrical outlets to 80 of Kouchibouguac’s campsites due to be available in mi-June. Sit back, relax, and listen to the warm crackle of your campfire, under our famous dark skies. Cycle the 60 km of bikeway in one of the best biking destinations in Atlantic Canada or paddle your way through the calm waters of the rivers and lagoons. Campers can reserve a campsite at Kouchibouguac by visiting www.pccamping.ca or by calling 1-877-737-3783.
This year’s centennial celebrations will include free entry days and exciting events at Kouchibouguac National Park including Canada Day. One of the biggest celebrations will take place on Canada’s Parks Day, Saturday July 16th, with a national birthday party. The park’s scientists will host a Bio Blitz Science & Arts Day at Callanders Beach, inviting you to delve into the world of insects, clams and exotic plants.
For those looking to get in shape and seeking the excitement of a little competition there is the 100 km for the 100th Challenge. Challenge your friends and co-workers to walk or run 100 km in the park’s fabulous trails. Log your kilometres with park staff, have fun and win prizes. The 100Km Challenge log books are available at the Park Information Centre.
During the rest of the summer, rediscover Kouchibouguac National Park in new and exciting ways. Some of the great programs offered this year are the Dark Sky Delight, a weekly stargazing activity, the ever popular Wigwam Gatherings - a Mi’kmaq cultural experience, and the Voyageur Canoe Adventure, a guided paddle to the sandy barrier islands, home of hundreds of seals and shore birds.
It is also a year of renewal in Kouchibouguac National Park with the opening of an expanded visitor information centre, including a makeover of the reception area, new video presentation, renewed permanent theme exhibits on the human and natural history of the park, and finally, a new gift shop.
Our national parks system is the envy of the world. This year is the perfect occasion to celebrate this legacy and rediscover the treasures hidden right in our backyard! Come discover your magical moment in Kouchibouguac National Park this summer. For more information, please call (506) 876-2443 or visit our website at parkscanada.gc.ca/kouchibouguac.