Free entry: An added reason to visit a Manitoba park this weekend

It’s an annual event that gives Manitobans even more reason to head out to a park — free entry weekend in celebration of Canada’s Parks Day.

Visitors to Manitoba’s provincial parks will not be required to purchase vehicle permits from July 20-22, Sustainable Development Minister Rochelle Squires said in a statement Friday.

“Right across our province, our parks are full of natural beauty and recreation opportunities,” Squires said.

“Whether you want to get away from it all and immerse yourself in nature, take a hike, or enjoy outdoor activities, I encourage everyone to take a moment and enjoy all that our parks have to offer.”

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Extra events will be held to showcase the parks, including campfire talks, guided tours and presentations.

The cost savings only applies to park entry at provincial sites — camping fees, or vehicle permits for national parks will still apply.

REMINDERS:

Whether you are camping or boating, the province asks you to be mindful of invasive species and to take precautions.

Firewood

Do not take firewood from the city with you; use only firewood available at the park. Fines may be issued to anyone found transporting firewood.

Watercraft

Drain and clean boats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and jet skis before leaving any recreational site. Dry all surfaces and remove visible plants or mud to prevent the spread of zebra mussels.

Inspection stations operate Thursday through Monday at several locations, including Selkirk, Headingley, Eriksdale, Grand Rapids, The Pas and Swan River.

EVENTS:

• a guided tour of the Trappist Monastery Ruins Provincial Heritage Park on Saturday afternoon;

• an interactive family program on geology and glaciation at Birds Hill Provincial Park on Saturday evening;

• presentations on the history of the boardwalk at Grand Beach Provincial Park, the history of Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park, pollinators and insects at Spruce Woods Provincial Park and trapping and furbearing animals with local trappers in Whiteshell Provincial Park; and

• guided walks of the Pine Ridge Trail in Birds Hill Provincial Park, the Hecla Village in Hecla/Grindstone Provincial Park, the Spirit Sands in Spruce Woods Provincial Park and the Bannock Point Petroforms in Whiteshell Provincial Park.

For more information on weekend celebrations, or on Manitoba parks in general, go to the parks website.

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