Exploring Mi'kmaq Land, Known as Prince Edward Island

My journey to Mi’kmaq territory, or Prince Edward Island (PEI) has been an inspiring experience filled with remarkable landscapes, vibrant communities, and rich cultural heritage. One of the most meaningful aspects of PEI is the co-management of parks by the Mi'kmaq people and Parks Canada, a partnership that highlights the dedication and hard work of the Mi'kmaq in preserving and protecting their ancestral lands.

The island is renowned for its stunning beaches and iconic lighthouses, many of which stand as historic symbols of PEI’s maritime culture. This heritage is respected through co-management efforts, with natural spaces preserved and cared for in a way that honors both cultural and environmental values.

PEI's communities are diverse and colorful, with houses and buildings ranging from historic to modern designs. Properties are often separated by natural barriers like trees or shrubs, blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. A striking feature unique to PEI are the yellow-needled trees—a species I had not seen before—that add a golden touch to the island’s greenery. Many homes have boats resting in their yards, embodying the island’s strong connection to the sea.

Moving through the island, we encountered roundabouts guiding the roadways, wind turbines across the countryside, and homes equipped with solar panels, showcasing PEI’s commitment to sustainability. It’s refreshing to see renewable energy embraced so widely.

One of the island’s most distinctive features is its rich red soil and sand. The vibrant red fields and cliffs along the coast are breathtaking, creating a striking contrast with the green fields and blue sky. In the forested areas, trees are dense yet not as tall as those in BC, giving the island a unique character. Marshlands add another layer of diversity to PEI's natural landscape.

Among the island’s wildlife, the red foxes have been a delightful sight. These beautiful creatures roam freely, adding a wild charm to PEI and connecting back to the island’s natural heritage.

The beauty of Mi'kmaq land, known as PEI, is a powerful reminder of the importance of honoring and preserving natural landscapes. The commitment of the Mi'kmaq people to protect this land, combined with the unique features of the island, creates an unforgettable experience.

Confederation Bridge

The Confederation Bridge joins the eastern Canadian provinces of Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, making travel throughout the Maritimes easy and convenient. The curved, 12.9 kilometre (8 mile) long bridge is the longest in the world crossing ice-covered water, and continues to endure as one of Canada’s top engineering achievements of the 20th century.

Lennox Island.

Backwoods burger

charlottetown Market

VICTORIA PARK

Cavendish Beach

Prince Edward Island National Park

I enjoyed walking along Cavendish Beach, collecting shells and rocks as keepsakes. The area is incredibly beautiful, with breathtaking views that make it unforgettable.

CAVENDISH CLIFFS

NORTH RUSTICO HARBOUR

SLAYMAKER & NICHOLS GASTRO HOUSE

COVEHEAD HARBOUR

LIGHTHOUSE

STANHOPE BEACH

Union Road, PE

Located just east of Brackley Beach, this stretch of the National Park includes three beaches: Ross Lane, Covehead Beach, and Stanhope Main.

EAST POINT

East Point Lighthouse, built in 1867, is known as Canada’s Confederation Lighthouse and is located at the most eastern tip of PEI and stands an impressive 64′ high. beautiful ocean view where the mighty tides of the St. Lawrence and Northumberland Strait meet. East Point is known as a hot spot for migrating pelagic birds. This is the only 1867-built lighthouse still standing.

NAUFRAGE Naufrage

PEI is a place that weaves together so many elements—old and new, natural and cultural, historical and sustainable—making it a one-of-a-kind destination that’s both a celebration of Mi'kmaq heritage and a testament to the power of community and conservation.