OTTAWA — The ‘Canada Strong Pass’ takes effect Friday, offering free admission to national parks, national historic sites and marine conservation areas maintained by Parks Canada.

The program, with the first details coming out last week, runs until Sept. 2. It follows up on a Liberal campaign promise to promote Canadian tourism in response to the United States’ tariff war.

The pass also covers free national museum admission for children 17 and under, and a 50% discount for 18- to 24 year-olds. The pass also includes a 25% discount on camping fees.

VIA Rail is also offering free fares for children 17 and under if they are accompanied by an adult, and a 25% discount for travellers 18 to 24 years old.

There is no physical ‘Canada Strong Pass’ or registration required – visitors can just show up at participating locations.