In 2014, Parks Canada created the Indigenous Peoples Open Doors Program to provide ease of access to community members with traditional ties to Parks Canada heritage places, encouraging reconnection with National Parks, National Historic Sites, and National Marine Conservation Areas within traditional territories by removing entry fees.
Qalipu First Nation is pleased to share that, through the Indigenous Peoples Open Doors Program, members can now enjoy admission fee exemptions at select Parks Canada locations across Newfoundland.
What this means for Qalipu members:
- Eligible members can visit all Parks Canada sites on the Island of Newfoundland without paying admission fees.
- Locations include:
National Parks: Gros Morne, Terra Nova
National Historic Sites: L’Anse aux Meadows, Cape Spear Lighthouse, Castle Hill, Hawthorne Cottage, Port au Choix, Ryan Premises, Signal Hill - Passes are valid until March 2030.
How to participate:
- Get an Open Doors Pass ‘hangtag’: Visit any Parks Canada location on the Island and present your valid Qalipu status/Indigenous identification card. Hang the pass from your rear-view mirror or present it at kiosks/visitor centres to receive entry fee exemptions.
- Use your status/Indigenous card: If you prefer, you can show your valid status/Indigenous identification card at any Parks Canada site to receive an entry fee exemption.
Important notes:
- The Open Doors Program covers admission fees only. Other fees (campgrounds, programs, or additional services) are not waived.
- This program does not authorize harvesting activities; such activities are subject to separate agreements.
- The fee exemption is not rights-based and does not define or affect Aboriginal or Treaty rights.
For members who have already purchased a Parks Canada annual pass, refunds are available. Contact the national park or site where you purchased the pass, or the National Information Service at 1-888-773-8888 or information@pc.gc.ca.
For more information: Visit Parks Canada