Bulletins

Autumn is a great time to take in the trails and scenery of Bruce Peninsula National Park. With proper planning, the crisp weather and change of the season can be an enjoyable experience among smaller crowds. However, it is important to be aware of safety regulations and recommendations to properly plan a safe and enjoyable visit.

Harvesting by the Anishinabek of Saugeen and Neyaashiinigmiing is protected by Section 35 of the Constitution Act and undertaken as part of their ongoing responsibilities for the land by caring for, and living in relationship with, their Territory as they have for millennia.

Over many thousands of years, harvesting activities by the Saugeen Ojibway Nation – including hunting, trapping, fishing, and gathering – have helped shape the natural environment on the Saugeen (Bruce) Peninsula, and continues to do so today. This is an important part of the ecological integrity of the area.

Saugeen Ojibway Nation has the right to hunt and harvest in Bruce Peninsula National Park, which is within their Territory. Saugeen Ojibway Nation hunting grounds border the national park boundaries, and they always undertake hunts that ensure mutual safety and respect. Parks Canada is collaborating with Saugeen Ojibway Nation to facilitate their inherent rights in alignment with our shared objectives for conservation and public safety.

Visitation guidelines:

The majority of Saugeen Ojibway Nation hunting activities will take place in late October/early November.

Sections of the Bruce Trail will be closed from Crane Lake (trailhead at end of Crane Lake Road) to Halfway Log Dump (trail junction near shoreline), and from Marr Lake (trail junction at west end of boulder beach) to Little Cove (east end of beach), including where it passes through Driftwood Cove from October 31 to November 9, 2025. Signage notifying visitors of closures and Saugeen Ojibway Nation hunting activities will be posted in applicable areas of the park.

To ensure public safety, Saugeen Ojibway Nation will hunt in remote areas of the park, far away from any open public day use areas. However, visitors to the Crane Lake, Driftwood Cove, and Halfway Log Dump/Emmett Lake areas may encounter harvest participants carrying hunting equipment, including hunting rifles, and transporting harvested wildlife. Visitors who are sensitive to such sights are encouraged to visit other areas of the park during this time.

As a precaution Parks Canada always recommends wearing high visibility clothing while hiking in remote areas of Bruce Peninsula National Park during the autumn months.

Other general hiking recommendations:

• The sun sets early this time of year; don’t get caught out in the dark. Make sure to carry a flashlight or headlamp during your hike. Check the Canada Research Council of Canada sunset calculator to learn when sundown will be occurring.  
• Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically during the day at this time of year. Remember to check the weather forecast, dress in layers, and bring extra clothing. Layers of clothing will allow you to adapt to any temperature changes. 
• When hiking in the fall you may encounter muddy or wet areas along the trails. We recommend proper hiking boots and a change of socks. 
• Please note at this time of year some community services are limited. It is worth planning ahead to know what businesses may be open or closed in the surrounding community.