FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Parkbus Launches $30 Trips to Support Canada Strong Program, Making National Parks Truly Accessible

New service connects Halifax to Kejimkujik National Park and Seaside locations while federal program makes park entry free

HALIFAX, NS – While Canada's national parks are free this summer under the federal Canada Strong program, getting there is still costly – until now. 

Parkbus has launched a new $30 round-trip bus service from Halifax to Kejimkujik National Park & Historic Site and Kejimkujik Seaside, eliminating the final barrier to accessing Nova Scotia's most iconic natural areas.

The transportation service, offered in partnership with VIA Rail, Parks Canada, and Hike Nova Scotia, makes Canada's natural heritage truly accessible to everyone, regardless of car ownership. For the price of a movie ticket, families can now reach Nova Scotia's only Dark-Sky Preserve and pristine Atlantic coastline.

Kejimkujik stands apart as both a National Park and National Historic Site, protecting 404 square kilometres of Acadian forest, tranquil lakes, and the largest collection of Mi'kmaw petroglyphs in North America. As Nova Scotia's only designated Dark-Sky Preserve, it offers exceptional stargazing opportunities free from light pollution.

The flat-rate $30 pricing applies to all passengers regardless of age, making family adventures more affordable than ever. The service addresses growing demand for sustainable tourism options, with recent surveys showing transportation remains the top barrier preventing people from visiting national parks.

"The team at Parkbus, along with our partners, is excited to make Kejimkujik accessible to everyone," said Matthew Thomas, CEO of Parkbus. "This is a summer about exploring Canada and the beautiful places in our backyard. We hope many Halifax tourists, travellers and residents take advantage of this incredible opportunity."

Parkbus is a national business offering Canada Strong trips to national parks across the country, including Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Rouge National Urban Park in Ontario, Bruce Peninsula in Ontario, and Elk Island National Park in Alberta. 

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SERVICE SCHEDULE:

Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site:

• Dates: July 12, July 26, August 9, August 23
• Departure: 7:00 AM from VIA Rail Halifax Station (1161 Hollis Street)
• Return: 7:00 PM
• Activities: Canoeing historic waterways, hiking Acadian forest trails, wildlife viewing
• Tickets can be purchased online at parkbus.ca/destinations/kejimkujik-national-park

Kejimkujik Seaside:

• Dates: August 2, August 30
• Departure: 7:00 AM from VIA Rail Halifax Station (1161 Hollis Street)
• Return: 7:00 PM
• Activities: Exploring white sand beaches, coastal trail hiking, seaside picnics with Atlantic Ocean views
• Tickets can be purchased online at parkbus.ca/destinations/kejimkujik-seaside

Each trip features a Hike Nova Scotia ambassador who shares knowledge of trails, natural areas, and hidden gems to help passengers maximize their wilderness experience.

The service is further enhanced by generous support from TD through the NatureLink program, making these accessible nature experiences possible for Nova Scotians and visitors alike. TD NatureLink provides subsidized transportation to outdoor spaces and outdoor programming. Since 2017, over 10,000 people have participated in NatureLink across 37 different locations across the country.

Port-Royal & Fort Anne Historic Sites:
‍In addition to our Kejimkujik trips, Parkbus now offers one-day getaways from Halifax to two of Canada’s most iconic National Historic Sites. Travel back in time at Port-Royal, one of North America’s earliest European settlements, then explore Fort Anne, a storied stronghold with over 400 years of history. You'll also have free time to wander the charming town of Annapolis Royal, known for its botanical gardens, scenic trails, and waterfront cafés. Trip Dates: July 19 & August 16.

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BOOKING INFORMATION: Tickets are available online at parkbus.ca, where visitors can also find more Canada Strong routes with discounted rates to National Parks across the country.

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About Parkbus 

Parkbus is Canada's ticket to the great outdoors. Since 2010, we've been connecting urban residents with nature by providing accessible, eco-friendly transportation from city centres to provincial and national parks across the country. What started as a grassroots initiative has grown into Canada's most trusted way to experience the outdoors, with over 5,000 passengers annually and hundreds of five-star reviews from adventurers of all ages and backgrounds. We offer both self-guided and guided experiences, ensuring that everyone—from first-time hikers to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts—can enjoy the beauty of Canada's natural spaces safely and comfortably. With partnerships spanning park agencies, municipalities, and community organizations, Parkbus continues to break down barriers to outdoor recreation, encouraging healthier lifestyles and a deeper connection to the environment. As we expand, our focus remains on accessibility, sustainability, and inspiring more people to discover the incredible green spaces that make Canada so unique. Visit parkbus.ca to learn more. 

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About Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site 

Kejimkujik protects a unique landscape of Acadian forest, pristine lakes, and Mi'kmaw cultural sites. As both a National Park and National Historic Site, it offers visitors opportunities to explore natural wilderness while learning about thousands of years of Mi'kmaw heritage.

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Media Contact: 

Matthew Thomas, CEO
1-416-871-2342
matthew@parkbus.ca

High-resolution photos available upon request

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