Sir Alexander Mackenzie Provincial Park facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sir Alexander Mackenzie Provincial Park |
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IUCN Category III (Natural Monument)
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“Alex MacKenzie from Canada by land”
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 Sir Alexander Mackenzie Provincial Park
Location in British Columbia
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| Location | Central Coast RD, British Columbia |
| Nearest city | Bella Coola |
| Area | 5 ha (12 acres) |
| Created | 10 February 1926 |
| Governing body | BC Parks |
Sir Alexander Mackenzie Provincial Park is a special place in British Columbia, Canada. It is a provincial park that protects an important historical spot. This park marks the farthest west point reached by the famous explorer Alexander Mackenzie in 1793. It also protects the rock he marked to celebrate his amazing journey.
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What is Sir Alexander Mackenzie Provincial Park?
Sir Alexander Mackenzie Provincial Park is a small but very important park. It is located at the mouth of Elcho Harbour. This harbour is part of the larger Dean Channel. The park was created on February 10, 1926. It helps to keep a piece of Canadian history safe.
A Park for History
This park is not like many others with big trails or campgrounds. It is mainly a historical site. Its main purpose is to protect the exact spot where Mackenzie finished his journey. The park covers about 5 hectares (about 12 acres) of land. This makes it one of the smaller provincial parks.
Who Was Alexander Mackenzie?
Alexander Mackenzie was a brave explorer. He was born in Scotland in 1764. He worked for a fur trading company. Mackenzie wanted to find a way to the Pacific Ocean by land. This was a very difficult goal for his time.
Mackenzie's Great Journey
In 1793, Mackenzie set out on his second big expedition. He traveled across North America. His journey was full of challenges. He faced tough weather and difficult terrain. He traveled by canoe and on foot. His goal was to be the first European to cross the continent north of Mexico.
The Historic Rock and Its Message
After many months of travel, Mackenzie reached the Pacific coast. He arrived at what is now Elcho Harbour. This was the end of his incredible journey. To mark his achievement, he painted a message on a rock.
The Famous Inscription
The message on the rock read: "Alexander Mackenzie, from Canada, by land, the twenty-second of July, one thousand seven hundred and ninety-three." This simple message showed that he had completed his mission. It proved that he had crossed the continent. This rock is the main reason the park exists. It is a symbol of his success.
Visiting This Special Place
Sir Alexander Mackenzie Provincial Park is quite remote. You cannot drive to it. The only way to reach the park is by boat. Sometimes, if the water is very calm, a float plane can land nearby.
No Facilities Available
Visitors should know that there are no services at the park. There are no washrooms, picnic areas, or campgrounds. It is a wild and natural place. You need to be prepared if you plan to visit. The closest towns are Bella Coola to the southeast and Ocean Falls to the west.
