Information Bulletin

SUSPENSION OF VISITOR SERVICES ALONG THE RIDEAU CANAL CONTINUES OVER VICTORIA DAY LONG WEEKEND

SMITHS FALLS, ONTARIO, May 15, 2020 – Parks Canada is reminding everyone in Ontario that visitor services and vehicle access continue to be suspended at all national parks, national historic sites, heritage canals and national marine conservation areas, including the Rideau Canal National Historic Site, over the Victoria Day Long Weekend.

All services and facilities such as lock stations, mooring areas, boat launches, day-use areas, washrooms, trails and parking lots remain closed. All events, group and interpretive activities are suspended until further notice.

Parks Canada reminds the public that the use of the waterway at this time is discouraged and at one’s own risk. Unmarked hazards may exist, and aids to navigation may be missing, off-station, or inoperable. The public is asked to follow the advice of public health experts on physical distancing.

Parks Canada understands the importance nature plays in the mental and physical well-being of Canadians, particularly now. Parks Canada will begin a safe, gradual opening of some outdoor locations in select national parks, national historic sites, and national marine conservation areas starting June 1.

Until June 1, all suspensions of visitor services and closures of facilities announced in March remain in place. For their own safety, Canadians should not try to access locations that are closed, particularly over the Victoria Day long weekend.

Please visit pc.gc.ca and follow Parks Canada’s social media channels for information and updates on the status of all Parks Canada places.

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Information:

Valerie de Winter Communications and Media Relations Officer Ontario Waterways 613-283-7199 Parks Canada This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.