Point Pelee National Park

Point Pelee National Park is a Canadian national park in southern Ontario established in 1918 and is famous as a major migratory bird stopover. It occupies a peninsula that projects into Lake Erie and includes marsh, beach, and wooded habitats.

The park’s most visited feature is the narrow sandspit that extends into Lake Erie and culminates at the Tip, a prime vantage point for watching spring and fall migrations and waterfowl movements. Trails, a marsh boardwalk and a visitor centre provide access and interpretation for different habitats within the park.

Historically set aside for protection in the early 20th century, the park has been managed for habitat conservation and public education since its creation in 1918. Ongoing conservation addresses wetland protection, invasive species and visitor impact on sensitive areas.

Point Pelee sits on the north shore of Lake Erie in southwestern Ontario, near the town of Leamington and within Essex County. It is the southernmost point of mainland Canada and is reached by road from nearby communities.

• Best time to visit: Peak spring migration occurs in May when thousands of songbirds and waterfowl pass through; early mornings in spring are best for birdwatching.
• Habitat: The park contains marshes, coastal sandspit, and Carolinian forest remnants and is a key stopover for migratory birds on the Atlantic flyway.

What to See#

• The Tip: A narrow sandspit that curves south into Lake Erie and ends at the park’s most famous viewpoint, commonly known as the Tip, where visitors often watch waterfowl and spring bird migration.
• Marsh Boardwalk: A raised wooden boardwalk running through marsh habitat that allows close observation of marsh birds and aquatic plants without disturbing sensitive wetlands.
• Visitor Centre: The park’s visitor facility that provides interpretive exhibits on migration, local ecosystems and park history, plus trail information and services during the season.

• Time your visit for spring (peak bird migration in May) or early fall to experience the highest variety of migrating songbirds and raptors.
• Arrive at opening to secure parking and to see the most bird activity; crowds and coach groups build up later in the day, especially at the Tip boardwalk and visitor centre.
• Plan to spend time on the marsh boardwalks and the Tip trail-these are the park's best vantage points for migrant birds and for the peninsula's shoreline views.