Ontario provincial parks are free on weekdays starting today

The free day-use passes at Ontario provincial parks will be available on weekdays starting this week.

After being cooped up inside for most of the COVID-19 pandemic, Ontario residents will have the opportunity to get outside at a reduced cost this summer. From June 7 until September 2, admission to 115 provincial parks is free from Monday to Thursday.

The free passes are for day-use only, meaning they’re ideal for a hike, walk, or a picnic by the lake.

• See also:
  • Ontario offers free provincial park weekday passes all summer long
  • 12 trails for spring hiking in and around Toronto
  • Ontario Parks summer campsite reservations soar by 100% this year

In response to heightened demand for outdoor space during the pandemic, Ontario has also created a system for hikers to reserve a daily vehicle permit up to five days before their visit. The new booking system is available for 17 popular parks this summer:

• Algonquin
• Arrowhead
• Batchawana Bay
• Craigleith
• Darlington
• Forks of the Credit
• Kakabeka Falls
• Kettle Lakes
• Lake Superior
• Long Point
• Mono Cliffs
• North Beach
• Pinery
• Presqu’ile
• Sandbanks
• Sibbald Point
• Turkey Point

All that’s left to do now is choose a park and make a reservation.