Canoe Hike, Pinery, 2017Photographer: Evan Holt

Discovery Programs

The best way to discover and explore Pinery is through the extensive Discovery Program, where you can learn about, explore, and observe the Park’s wildlife, ecosystems, and hidden secrets. All ages are welcome and encouraged to accompany our Park Naturalists on the programs they’ve developed!

activity schedule

Refer to the activity schedule for the times, locations, and descriptions of upcoming discovery programs. The activity schedule is available at campground offices, gates, the Visitor Centre, and Comfort Stations. Be sure to check the Pinery Events Calendar for details of other special events and interpretive programs. A short list of activities can be found below.

Programs may be altered due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Bike Hikes

Join Park Naturalists for a leisurely, 1 1/2 – 2 hour bike ride along the Savanna Trail, exploring and learning about the differences in Pinery’s environments as you pass through several different ecosystems.

Guided Hikes

Join Park Naturalists for 1–2 hour hikes to help you discover Pinery and its special features. Guided hikes are a great way to see place differently than you would on your own. There are bike hikes, trail hikes, and canoe hikes. Topics include butterflies, birds, the role of fire in the Oak Savanna, and the many species-at-risk that call Pinery home. Many of our guided hikes are offered on wheelchair accessible trails.

Evening Programs

As the sun sets over Lake Huron, make your visit more rewarding with a visit to the outdoor theatre and its night time programs.

Canoe Hikes

Explore the Old Ausable Channel, its history, and its incredible wildlife from a canoe. Park Naturalists will guide you along the channel stopping to share some amazing stories and information related to this unique wetland.

Ask the Naturalist

These more casual programs explore a wide variety of topics with a Park Naturalist. You can drop in anytime during the scheduled 1–2 hours to participate in an activity or ask questions about Pinery’s natural wonders.

Ooze n’ Gooze

Join Park Naturalists for an hour of aquatic discovery. Get your hands wet as you wade through the life that thrives in the Old Ausable Channel. This adventure begins at the large dock near the Park Store in July and August.

Children’s Programs

Children’s programs are held from late June to the Labour Day weekend. These energy-packed programs will give you an hour and a half of nature discovery through games, stories, and animals. Children must be accompanied by an adult to attend all programs.

These are just a few of the Discovery Programs we offer. Come to the Visitor Centre or check out our current activity schedule for more information on Discovery Programs throughout the year. We also offer some self-directed interpretive activities to help you and your family explore Pinery on your own.

Programs may be altered due to COVID-19 restrictions.