Understand and explore some sacred Indigenous sites across Canada that all have unique and interesting stories to tell.
In Canada there are many sacred Indigenous sites, some are special to certain First Nations while others are sacred to several. The types of sites ranging from rainforests to mountains. With a magical sight to behold, each site has a unique story to be told from the Indigenous tribes that inhabited these sacred sites. This National Indigenous History Month is a time to learn and explore the wonders and beautiful locations of Indigenous culture and discover the meaning behind them. We hope you venture out to these places and gain a new respect for the first inhabitants of our country’s breathtaking scenery.
Kejimkujik National Park, Nova Scotia
way of life of the Mi’kwmaw people who traveled along the area’s routes thousands of years ago. Being the only Dark Sky Preserve in Nova Scotia, this park also holds old-growth forests and unique Petroglyph rock engravings. This park has stories to share as you canoe the same traditional waterways the Mi’kmaw people did. When doing so, appreciate the land we share with the first inhabitants of Canada.
Haida Gwaii, B.C.
This northern island off the coast of B.C. holds incredible centuries-old totem poles and longhouses which remain as some of the oldest authentic examples of coastal First Nations villages. The Haida people have lived on the island for over 13 000 years and remain the majority of the island’s population.
Tombstone Territorial Park, Yukon
This park protects 2 200 kilometers of vast wilderness filled with rich First Nations heritage. Being an important hunting site for Indigenous tribes, the area has become a centre of important cultural significance with many of the landmarks of the area having a story. Human activity in the area dates back to 8 000 years suggested by Archeological evidence. There is also an interpretive centre that offers interpretive programs, special events, and guided walks to help you understand the significance of the place and learn more about the land and the Indigenous tribes which inhabited it.
Radium Hot Springs, B.C.
The hot springs in Kootenay National Park were treasured as a spiritual site for many First Nation communities. The water being rich with minerals was used as a source of healing for Indigenous people who traversed the mountain pass. Today it is a popular tourist spot for the hot springs for you to enjoy, but when you travel there, take time to appreciate the importance of the location.
The Great Bear Rainforest, B.C.
Being the largest temperate rainforest in the world, the Great Bear Rainforest is home to an abundance of wildlife and is still home to many First Nations Communities. A particular attraction to this place is the rare subspecies of the Spirit Bear, a white-furred bear that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. In the community of Klemtu, you can stay at the Spirit Bear Lodge where you can be led by a local Indigenous guide into the ancient forest with many of the world’s tallest trees. Hopefully, upon your journey, you may find the spirit bear which is considered sacred by the T’simshian people.
Aurora Village, Northwest Territories
The village gains its name for the wonderful and majestic sight to see each year. The village is one of the best places to experience the magic of the northern lights. The teepee village is entirely Aboriginal-owned allowing you to indulge in the rich heritage and stories the land can provide. Located just outside of Yellowknife, it is the perfect place to travel this summer for a magical experience.
Bon Echo Provincial Park, Ontario
In the Bon Echo Provincial Park, there are over 260 pictographs or painted images that can be found across the Mazinaw Rock just above the water. This spot with its majestical nature of native art earned its status as a world heritage site as it is the only major pictograph site in Southern Ontario. There are several interpretive boat tours available that can bring you up to the base of the cliff, but we recommend you canoe or kayak to the rock’s face and take time examining each pictograph and the story it has to share.
Manitoulin Island, Ontario
Last on our list is Manitoulin Island, located in northern Ontario the island has remained in close connection to the original purpose the historic inhabitants intended for the location. The Great Spirit Circle Trail will teach you about the heritage of the land and its surroundings. Being home to eight different First Nations there is much to learn from and enrich yourself in the culture and heritage of the location. There are overnight teepee camps, interpretive tours, and canoe adventures which you can experience while here.
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