Exploring Point Pelee: the iconic Tip Tower has reopened!

Point Pelee is one of the iconic National Parks in Ontario, and thanks to a newly re-opened attraction, the visitor experience just levelled up.

For years, my dad talked about visiting Point Pelee and Pelee Island as something he always wanted to do. When I started spending more time adventuring in Ontario, I knew this was a memory I wanted us to make together so I did some quick research, managed to snag a last-minute booking for an oTentik at Point Pelee National Park, and off we went!

Standing at the southernmost tip of mainland Canada

Point Pelee is unique because it's located at the southernmost point of the Canadian mainland, giving it the status of being Canada's most ecologically diverse national park - while being the second smallest! This makes it a haven for birds and butterflies during the annual migrations, and there's no shortage of beautiful trails to explore when visiting Point Pelee National Park.

I've been fortunate enough to visit Point Pelee a couple times in the last few years, and every visit has been an entirely different experience for me. The first time was the camping trip with my dad, and last year I dove into the world of birding by attending some guided hikes at the 2024 Festival of Birds, an annual event hosted by Friends of Point Pelee. This is an event not to be missed! More recently, I stayed at an adults only glamping resort in Harrow, Ontario (more on that soon!) and I had heard a rumour of something exciting - so I swung by for a quick-ish visit on my way back home.

The exciting news? The Tip Tower is finally re-open!

The Tip Tower at Point Pelee first opened to the public in 2020, but was closed for safety concerns with the railing in 2022 - not long before my very first visit. As of February 2025, following repairs and testing, the tower is reopen to public and not to be missed! The metal tower is 24 metres tall, with 144 steps to the top. You'll find panoramic views of Lake Erie, and this should be a great addition for birding season.

The newly reopened Tip Tower and the panoramic views from the top

So, what else can you do at Point Pelee National Park?

Hiking

I may be biased, but hiking is always my go-to activity. One of my favourite trails in the park is the Marsh Boardwalk (I'm a sucker for a good boardwalk!) and the trail to the tip is an absolute must for anyone visiting Point Pelee. At the tip, you'll see the currents crashing into one another for an unforgettable experience. Keep in mind that the currents can be quite strong, and heed caution and always follow signage to stay out of the water where indicated.

Camping

While there is no front country sites offered at Point Pelee, you can have a glamping experience in the heated oTentik accomodations. You'll need to bring your own bedding, but all kitchen gear is supplied, along with a BBQ and wildlife-safe food storage lockers on site.

The oTentik accomodations, walking on the beach, and hiking on the Marsh Boardwalk Trail

Birding

Many of the guided hikes for the 2025 Festival of Birds are sold out already, but keep your eyes open for any last minute cancellations. I did a few guided hikes last spring and I can't recommend one enough! As an extremely novice birder, it was so helpful to have renowned guides helping us both spot and identify the numerous species migrating through. I've signed up for another early morning guided hike this season and I can't wait! The evening hike was also enjoyable, and allowed us to watch the American Woodcock perform it's classic mating ritual - a sight to be seen for sure.

Owlettes (through binoculars) , the 42nd parallel, and an American Woodcock (through binoculars)

Biking

Plenty of the trails throughout the park are bicycle friendly!

Paddle

The marshlands make a great spot to look for wildlife and enjoy being on the water! Rentals are available, or you can also join a Freighter canoe tour with an interpreter for a more educational experience.

Dark Sky Nights

Point Pelee National Park is a designated Dark Sky Preserve, making this a great place to explore the night sky. On certain nights, the park is open until midnight for a primo stargazing experience! Check out the Point Pelee website for the current dates and stargazing tips - some dates even have the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada onsite with telescopes.

Point Pelee is a National Park in Ontario that is not to be missed, and a walk up the Tip Tower will literally elevate your experience! Have you visited this park yet?

See you on the trails!

Shawna