10 Wonders of Prince Edward Island National Park
Prince Edward Island, once completely covered in coastal Acadian forest, is Canada’s maybe smallest province, but greenest of them all. Established in 1937 one and only National Park of the province is identify today as being the most endangered among national parks in Canada; sadly based on human impact.
Prince Edward Island National Park (PEI) is where you’ll find some of Canada’s best sand dunes, sand pits, barrier islands, sandstone cliffs, beaches, forests and wetlands. A variety of wildlife like the endangered Piping Plover and the threatened Saint Lawrence Aster and plant life can be seen here and it’s an adventure spotting and exploring the different species.
In addition to natural beauty, the park is also the location of many cultural resources including Green Gables, Dalvay-by-the-Sea National Historic Site and L. M. Montgomery’s Cavendish National Historic Site Dalvay-by-the-Sea National Historic Site.
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1) Greenwich Dunes
The park contains an extensive yet delicate coastal dune system where a variety of rare plants can be found. An interesting characteristic about the Greenwich Dunes are the large, mobile parabolic dunes with associated counter ridges, which is very rare to see in North America. Sand dunes are a natural habitat that protects against storms and waves.
2) Green Gables
This area of the park provided the setting for the beloved story of Anne of Green Gables. You can now visit the Anne of Green Gables house. It became part of the park in 1936 and inspired one of Canada’s most well-known female writers. This house represents history and success, especially in literature and equality.
3) Endangered & Threatened Species
Prince Edwards Island National Park is home to a multitude of endangered and threatened wildlife species including the Piping Plover, the American eel and the Saint Lawrence Aster. Within the park’s beaches, sand dunes, forest and wetlands you can find more than 400 species plants and 300 species of birds and other animals. The park provides shelter and protection for these at-risk species and give them a chance of survival.
4) Red Sand Beaches
Prince Edwards island National Park is known for its plethora of beaches, but unlike other beach locations, the park is famous for its red sand shored. Visit the waterfront sparkling with sand in all shades of the vibrant color red for a unique experience. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the warm sun, build sandcastles, play among the waves or stroll through the surf the beaches here provide an idyllic setting.
5) Acadian Forests
The Acadian forests are a vast ecoregion that spread from New England, US up to Quebec. A flourishing mix of hardwood and softwood trees (not found anywhere else on the planet), wetlands, flora and fauna, this enchanting area is also home to black bear, moose, the great horned owl and many other fascinating creatures. Binoculars at the ready!
6) Blooming Point
Blooming Point is a beautiful beach perched on the north shore of Prince Edward Island. Boasting idyllic sandy beaches, dunes and marram grass that help the ecosystem thrive, this popular spot is perfect for an afternoon picnic.
7) Port-la-Joye Fort Amherst
This area contains the Fort Amherst National Historic Site of Canada and was designated in remembrance of the first permanent European settlement on Prince Edward Island. Ruins of the British fort are still visible along with interpretive displays that provide visitors a chance to appreciate the history of the site. From here, visitors can take in awesome views of the countryside as well as Charlottetown Harbour.
8) Cavendish Grove
Named for its large stand of sugar maple trees, Cavendish Island opened in Prince Edward Island National Park in 2007. These trees are a rarity here and one of the most special features of the park. Cavendish Grove boasts an extensive trail network with more than 12 kilometers for hiking and cycling with amazing views of the beaches, dunes, ponds and salt marshes.
9) Sandstone Cliffs
Along the coastlines of Prince Edward Island National Park, you can see the interesting sandstone cliffs. These cliffs consist of sedimentary rock along with other natural materials featuring a high iron concentration that oxidises when exposed to air.
10) Gulf of Saint Lawrence
Along the north shore, the park includes the Gulf of Saint Lawrence, the world’s oldest estuary. It’s an enclosed coastal body of water with one or more rivers flowing into it. The gulf serves as an outlet of the North American Great Lakes via the Saint Lawrence River to the Atlantic Ocean.