Wednesday, July 11, 2012

The Peace Gardens: Worth a visit not the drive

The logistical accomplishment of having a space that is neither Canada or America, land donated and maintained through a join effort to recognize the lasting peace between two large nations is powerful.
These plaques create the line of the two nations, and you can literally stand in both as you process how awesome this park is. Once inside the park gates for an entrance fee of $10 visitors can go between the Canadian and American sides as many times as they like. In face the center of the garden is a 3/4 mile long walkway on the border line. The center layout is very similar to that of the Lawn in DC.
The word garden in the title is what was misleading, at one point these gardens may have been meticulousness maintained. However they are less than 1 square mile of proper garden and they have seen their better days.

The architects did a fantastic job of aligning things for powerful views

But some buildings such as this one have lost their visual appeal

If you can get close enough please note the ravenous deer that are common in these here parts

Impressive flag flower work

Historical bells of love

and concrete towers that impress

70's style chapel, perfect for a small wedding

and wise words to send you on your way.

The Canadian half of the park has numerous lakes and great wildlife options. The American side has play structures, camping, music camp, performance halls, gift shops and plenty of trees and bike paths.

You do not need a passport to go into the parks, however you will need to re-enter the US or Canada through the border and inform the border control that you are coming from the park, if you have a passport i advise you bring it.

Camping in the park is nice, well maintained sites, cabins for rent, hot showers and about $12 a night for a primitive site.

We enjoyed our visit and spend about 6 hours exploring the park, however would  not recommend driving more than 1-2 hours to visit the park, but if your in the area its worth a look.




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