Facts About Canada

Point Pelee National Park

Point Pelee National Park protects Carolinian forest, savannah, beaches, and expansive marsh at the southern tip of mainland Canada on Lake Erie. Famous for spring songbird migration and fall monarch butterflies, the park’s dynamic sand spit culminates at the Tip, where converging currents and waves shape the shoreline daily.

At a glance — Point Pelee National Park
Location Lake Erie shore, near Leamington, southwestern Ontario
Province Ontario
Established 1918
Area (approx.) ≈ 15 km²
Notable features The Tip (southernmost point of mainland Canada); extensive cattail marsh & Marsh Boardwalk; Carolinian forest & savannah; long sand beaches; world-class birding & monarch staging
Nearby communities Leamington, Kingsville; regional hub: Windsor

Overview

Point Pelee’s narrow peninsula reaches into Lake Erie along a constantly reshaped sand spit. Habitats range from warm-temperate Carolinian forest and savannah to marsh and beach, supporting high biodiversity at the northern edge of many species’ ranges. The park is internationally known for spring warbler “fallouts,” raptor flights, and autumn monarch migrations.

Landscapes and ecosystems

  • Marsh & boardwalk: Vast cattail marsh with open ponds and channels; the Marsh Boardwalk and observation tower offer classic views and wildlife watching.
  • Carolinian forest & savannah: Tulip-tree, sassafras, black gum, oak, and hickory with wildflowers and butterflies; scattered prairie-like openings and dune grasslands.
  • Beaches & the Tip: Long sand beaches on both shores; the Tip is a highly dynamic cusp where currents and waves meet—shoreline shape can change daily.
  • Wildlife & migration: Spring songbirds (especially warblers), shorebirds, herons, waterfowl; monarch butterflies gather in large numbers each fall before crossing Lake Erie.

Things to do

  • Birding & wildlife viewing: Peak birding in May (Festival of Birds period) and strong shoulder seasons in April/September; monarchs peak in September–October.
  • Walking & cycling: Easy trails through forest and savannah; multi-use paths connect the visitor centre area, beaches, and marsh.
  • Canoe/kayak the marsh: Signed paddling routes explore ponds and channels (rentals/launch near the boardwalk).
  • Beaches & picnicking: Day-use beach areas on both east and west shores (check daily advisories).
  • Night sky programs: Occasional after-hours/dark-sky events extend access beyond regular day use.

Access and visitor services

  • Main entrance south of Leamington; follow signs to the Visitor Centre.
  • A seasonal Tip Shuttle runs between the Visitor Centre and the Tip area; walking/biking access also permitted.
  • Day-use facilities include parking areas, washrooms, change rooms, and picnic sites; food and rentals operate seasonally.
  • Nearby towns (Leamington/Kingsville) provide lodging, groceries, fuel, and outfitters.
  • Reservations may apply for special programs or limited-capacity experiences; check current details.

Safety and low-impact travel

  • Do not enter the water at the Tip. Dangerous currents, steep drop-offs, and shifting sand make swimming hazardous. Obey all signage and barriers.
  • Waves, wind, and seiches can change beach conditions quickly; heed advisories.
  • Sun & exposure: Carry water and sun protection; summer heat and humidity are common.
  • Ticks & poison ivy: Stay on marked paths; do tick checks after hikes and avoid contact with leaves of three.
  • Protect dunes and vegetation by using signed access points only; pack out litter and follow Leave No Trace.

See also

External links (official)

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