Sable Island National Park Reserve (Reserve)
Nova Scotia
•Est. 20 June 2013
Area
30 km² (12 sq mi)
Natural Region
Atlantic Coast Plain
Annual Visitors
806
Established
20 June 2013
About the Park
Sable Island National Park Reserve is a remote, crescent-shaped island located approximately 290 km southeast of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Known for its shifting sand dunes and rich biodiversity, the island is home to the iconic Sable Island wild horses, the world's largest breeding colony of grey seals, and several unique plant and bird species.
Park Reserve Status
This area is designated as a National Park Reserve, which means it's protected and managed like a national park while respecting Indigenous rights and land claims in the area.
Park Location
History
The island has a storied past, often referred to as the 'Graveyard of the Atlantic' due to over 350 recorded shipwrecks off its shores. Efforts to protect the island culminated in its designation as a National Park Reserve on June 20, 2013, ensuring the preservation of its unique ecosystems and cultural heritage.
Landscapes
Dominated by rolling sand dunes, Sable Island features freshwater ponds and expansive beaches. The island's dynamic landscape is shaped by ocean currents and strong winds, resulting in constant changes to its topography.
Wildlife
Beyond the famous wild horses, the island supports the world's largest breeding colony of grey seals. It is also a critical habitat for bird species such as the Ipswich sparrow, which breeds exclusively on Sable Island. The island's isolation has allowed for the development of unique plant and insect species found nowhere else.
Activities
Visiting Sable Island offers a rare opportunity for wildlife observation, photography, and guided interpretive walks focusing on the island's natural and cultural history. Access is limited and carefully managed to protect the fragile environment.
Park Features
Natural Beauty
Pristine Wilderness
Wildlife
Native Species
Activities
Outdoor Adventures
Scenic Views
Photo Opportunities
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