Our Travels

Canada is celebrating the 150th anniversary of Confederation this year. Of course, there is a lot of planning going on and, guaranteed, there will be much celebrating. We have already been given a sneak peek at one of the gifts being brought to the party: The federal government has announced that in 2017, admission to all our national parks, national historical sites and national marine conservation areas will be free.

I am fortunate that one of these national treasures is only a short drive from my home. Fundy National Park here in New Brunswick has it all, including gorgeous waterfalls, lakes and marshes nestled in 200 kilometres of Acadian forest.

If the ocean is more your thing, you have 12 kilometres of shoreline to explore. The massive tides twice a day mean you can even walk on the ocean floor and gather crabs, sea glass and other trinkets given up by the sea.

Like hiking? Will 100 kilometres of trails do? The national park's website has extensive information on the level of difficulty, length and what to expect along the way for you to plan accordingly.

Canada is wellknown for its raw, natural beauty and Fundy National Park is only a small area in our vast system of lakes, rivers, forests and tundras.

How many countries can offer icebergs off Newfoundland, polar bears in Churchill, Man., and whales in every ocean that borders it?

Clockwise from top: Dickson Falls Lookout; Amanda hiking up a steep trail; drying shoes by the fire at the end of the day.

My point is, the doors have been opened to delve into its wonders. You will be amazed at some of the beauty hidden in the deep forests and the rich tales of history from our forts. You will also wonder at preserved underwater formations and shipwrecks in our marine conservation areas.

This was a country built by explorers and risk-takers and we have flourished despite the harsh winters and difficult crossing of vast oceans and lakes that frame it.