Greenwich
Prince Edward Island National Park
This special place is home to the biggest sand dunes on Prince Edward Island!
Greenwich has a long history with connections to Mi’kmaq and Acadian culture, and an ever-evolving tale of the shaping and re-shaping of its landscapes through wind and waves. The path to Greenwich may be a bit less traveled than other areas of PEI National Park, but it’s ripe for discovery through exploration of its trails, beaches and beautiful interpretation centre.
The western tip of Greenwich, a peninsula that separates St. Peters Bay from the Gulf of St. Lawrence, became part of Prince Edward Island National Park in 1998 to protect and preserve the natural and cultural resources found in the area.
Enjoy a quiet moment of serenity with this peaceful Greenwich Dunes Trail video.
Natural and historical wonders
Parabolic dunes
The site contains an extensive and fragile coastal dune system, wetlands and various natural habitats in which numerous rare plant species are found. Among the most spectacular natural characteristics to be protected at Greenwich are the unusually large and mobile parabolic dunes with their associated counter ridges or Gegenwälle. This phenomenon is very rare in North America.
A cultural landscape
Greenwich is also noted for its rich cultural heritage. Research at the site is ongoing, and evidence found thus far indicates a landscape that has changed drastically over time. Several archaeological digs conducted between 1983 and 2002 by the Canadian Museum of Civilization and Parks Canada have found traces left by the major cultures that have existed on Prince Edward Island over the past 10,000 years. These include early Mi'kmaq communities, French and Acadian settlers, and Scottish, Irish, and English immigrants.
Greenwich Interpretation Centre
Location: 59 Wild Rose Road, Greenwich, PEI.
The Greenwich Interpretation Centre features over 20 exhibits to help you learn and appreciate the amazing natural and cultural history of this special place.
The Time Line exhibit depicts a story of 10,000 years of inhabitation, including artifact which have been found on-site. Visitors can test their own naturalist skills with the Shell Game, Shorebird Challenge, and Dune Plant quiz.
The 3D in-floor model displays the Greenwich Peninsula, St. Peters Bay, and surrounding areas. A major component of the exhibit is the 12-minute multimedia presentation entitled “Wind, Sea and Sand, the story of Greenwich.”
The Interpretation Centre is fully wheelchair accessible and also includes a multipurpose room.
Found hours of operations.
Hiking
Greenwich features three hiking trails varying in length from 1.25 km to 4.5 km. The landscape varies from secluded wooded areas to open abandoned agricultural fields to spectacular vistas over Bowley Pond. All trails are equipped with interpretive signs, which explain the unique ecosystem and rich history of the area.
For more information: Hiking
Greenwich Beach
Greenwich Beach is a stunning stretch of sandy shoreline along the Greenwich peninsula. Daily surf guard supervision is offered in the summer, and visitors can access the site via the Greenwich Dunes Trail or the beach facility.
The beach facility has been constructed using a sustainable design concept, with solar-powered energy and composting toilets. Services available include washrooms, change rooms, exterior showers, a large picnic shelter, and a boardwalk to the beach.
For more information: Swimming and beach activities
Directions
From Charlottetown, follow Route 2 east to St. Peter’s for 52 km. Turn left in St. Peter’s to stay on Route 2 for 300m, continuing straight onto Route 313 for 450m. Turn left onto Greenwich Rd (also Route 313) and follow for 9.5 km until you reach the Greenwich Interpretation Centre.
From the Confederation Bridge (Borden-Carleton), follow Route 1 east to Charlottetown for 54 km, then turn left onto Route 2 west to St. Peter’s for 50 km. Turn left in St. Peter’s to stay on Route 2 for 300m, continuing straight onto Route 313 for 450m. Turn left onto Greenwich Rd (also Route 313) and follow for 9.5 km until you reach the Greenwich Interpretation Centre.
From the Wood Islands Ferry Terminal, follow Route 315 north to Montague for 23 km, then turn left onto Route 4 north for 11 km. Turn left onto Route 313 (Cardigan Rd) for 20 km through St. Peter’s, turn left onto the Greenwich Rd (also Route 313) and follow for 9.5 km until you reach the Greenwich Interpretation Centre.
Off-Season Access
Parking lots, trails, boardwalks, and stairs in Greenwich, PEI National Park are not maintained between Thanksgiving and Victoria Day each year. During this period there is a limited Parks Canada emergency response. Natural hazards are present in the area. There is, therefore, an increased risk of serious injury or death. By choosing to use unmaintained trails, you assume all actual and legal risks. Parks Canada disclaims any and all liability to you and relies on the Occupiers' Liability Act, RSPEI 1988, c. O-2.
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