Are you interested in discovering Canada's beautiful natural landscapes? The diversity of the geography in the Canadian provinces is astounding. When planning a trip, it can be challenging to string together all of the beautiful destinations this country offers.
We've simplified the process by putting together the top 5 tourist destinations by province. If you're planning a cross-country trip, this guide will help you pinpoint the best attractions to hit in each province.
Alberta
Alberta offers a wealth of national beauty and exploration. Here are a few of the best sights to see while visiting the province.
Banff National Park
Banff is a national treasure that awes every visitor that steps foot in the park. The peaks of Mount Rundle and Mount Cascade dominate the skyline of the park. You'll experience some of the most stunning lakes in the world, with gorgeous turquoise waters all surrounded by tall mountains.
An exciting activity for the whole family is taking the Banff Gondola (which is a cable car) to reach the top of Sulphur Mountain. You'll see extraordinary views and it's a great photo-op.
Alternatively, if you're looking for a more relaxing experience, head to the Banff Hot Springs! The hot springs use geothermal energy and bring bubbles to the surface. It's the perfect spot to kick back, relax, and luxuriate for the afternoon.
There are also plenty of boutiques and local restaurants to explore while staying in a château or small hotel. The magic of the park includes access to wildlife including grizzly bears and elk.
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake lies about 14 km southeast of the border of Lake Louise. You may have seen this lake as a screensaver due to its beautiful and brilliant bluish-green hue. The water comes from a local glacier outside of Banff. This is the most famous lake in Banff. The best time to get your award winning photo is sunrise or sunset. The way the sun hits the water will simply take your breath away. It can get very busy at these times, so be prepared.
Try the famous Moraine Lake biking trail! Cycling enthusiasts will be thrilled to try this challenging trail. The sights you'll see along the trail are truly remarkable. We suggest hooking up a GoPro to your bike to get the best cycling footage with a view!
Lake Louise
There is an inner hamlet within Banff known as the famous Lake Louise. Its water provides a beautiful turquoise blue appearance to travellers. In the summer, rent a canoe and paddle along the crystal water. In the winter, you can enjoy free snowshoeing in designated areas.
A large château estate overlooks the lake called the Fairmont Lake Louise. If you're looking for a gorgeous accommodation, consider booking here. Curious explorers might take a hiking trail up to the Lake Agnes Tea House for an amazing vantage point within the park. Lake Agnes is another beautiful lake which looks so pristine, the mountains reflect perfectly into the water below. The hike itself is moderately difficult with a consistent incline throughout the trail. But the view from the top is unmatched!
Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park is the largest National Park within the Rockies in Canada. It offers numerous majestic peaks, outstanding wildlife, and wild beauty. The park dominates the landscape over 11,000 km². This is grizzly country, so make sure to bring bear spray.
One of the most notable things to do while in Jasper is walking on the Athabasca Glacier. A tour guide will take you to walk across the glacier where you'll experience part of the largest icefield in the Canadian Rockies.
Make sure to also visit the Jasper SkyTram. This is a 7 minute guided tour that soars across Jasper National Park. See the entirety of the park from a birds-eye-view. You'll be able to see lakes, rivers, mountain ranges, and even downtown Jasper!
Sunshine Village
Sunshine Village is an exceptional ski resort right along the Continental divide. Contained within Banff National Park in Alberta, it offers diverse terrain to an array of skill levels. With 3500 acres available to skiers and snowboarders, you will have no shortage of adventure.
For the less experienced skier or snowboarder, there are lessons for kids, teens, adults, and accessibility lessons at The Snow School. They'll help anyone with different ranges of mobility learn to ski!
There's also a variety of restaurants and shops in the area. So when you get tired of hitting the slopes, you can relax and unwind.
British Columbia
Canada's westernmost province maintains a spectacular Pacific coastline as well as several mountain ranges. Here are some of the provinces major attractions:
Stanley Park
Stanley Park is a beautiful getaway within the heart of Vancouver. If you visit the city and have a need to step out for some fresh air, this should be your go-to spot.
There are plenty of forest trails to explore, as well as picnic areas, tennis courts, playgrounds, and even a golf course!
You can even tour the park by a horse-drawn carriage, shuttle trolley, or tour bus. They even have the famous Stanley Park Train. Locals and tourists alike can see the park while experiencing the many themes the train boasts depending on the season.
This is the perfect spot for friends to or families to hang out, pack a picnic, and play!
Whistler Blackcomb
What more needs to be said about Whistler Blackcomb? One of the greatest ski resorts in the world, Whistler was the site of the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics. Conditions are perfect and the runs range from beginner level to expert. The après ski is equally impressive, as the pedestrian village provides a compact set of chalets to wow any nightlife enthusiast.
Have you ever tried Heli-Skiing? This unique experience takes you off-trail for downhill skiing that is accessed by a helicopter. This is ideal for the skier looking to ski in natural environments without having to hike to these areas (which can be incredibly difficult). This is a quintessential Whistler experience that you won't want to miss!
Granville Island
Another Peninsula well known within Vancouver is Granville Island. The public market here is the crown jewel of the city and provides a cultural and artistic hub with over 50 food vendors. Pick up fresh produce and be inspired to cook some delicious meals. So spend a day shopping around, trying new foods, and of course be sure to try Granville Island Brewing's delicious craft beers.
You'll also have the chance to learn about the interesting history and architecture of Granville Island while you're there. A trip to Granville Island is the perfect way to spend an afternoon!
Vancouver Aquarium
The Vancouver Aquarium is host to thousands of spectacular underwater species. There are over 65,000 animals and over 30 exhibits at this magnificent aquarium! You can see the Graham Amazon Gallery, the Marine Mammal Rescue, The Tropics, and Jellies exhibits to name a few. You'll be completely immersed in this underwater paradise.
Some notable animals featured at the aquarium are jellyfish, sharks, turtles, seals and sealions, octopi, and penguins.
Be sure to book your tickets in advanced as this is a very popular attraction. It's the perfect way to spend the day with your family - the kids will be sure to love it!
Big White Ski Resort
Big White Ski Resort may be overshadowed by its larger cousin Whistler Blackcomb, but this resort definitely holds its own. It is the highest summit in the Okanagan Highland. Aside from the obvious skiing and snowboarding, in the winter you can go dog sledding, on a snowmobile tour, and even ride in a horse-drawn sleigh!
In the summer, the resort turns into an exciting destination for downhill biking. There are tons of hiking trails to check out, and you can even play a fun game of disc golf!
Manitoba
Manitoba is a central Canadian province with a beautiful landscape of lakes and rivers that stretch up to the northern Arctic tundra. There are many natural areas to visit in this province. Here are just a few:
Riding Mountain National Park
The diversity at Riding Mountain National Park is nothing short of breathtaking. It is a protected area that provides access to wildlife in sharp contrast to nearby prairie farmland.
Visit Clear Lake which is the biggest lake in the whole park. It's a mecca for all kinds of water and boating activities. It's the ideal spot do to some birdwatching. There are 233 different species around the lake! Be aware that this is a sacred site to the Anishinabe people so please be respectful of the land.
Riding Mountain National Park is also the perfect place to see the northern lights. The skies are free from light pollution so your chances of spotting the beautiful Aurora Borealis is high. Between January and March you have the best chances of seeing them.
Whiteshell Provincial Park
Whiteshell Provincial Park dominates the southeast corner of the province. Just east of the city of Winnipeg, this four-season park provides an outdoor experience unlike any other. Experience one of the many hiking trails that vary in difficulty. Whiteshell had so much to offer it's visitors! With rushing rivers, stunning lakes, and sandy beaches, there's something for everyone to enjoy at the park.
There is a meteorite lake that welcomes swimmers in the summertime. Many park-goers also opt to stay at one of the many amazing campsites at the park. It's the perfect place to make some memories with friends or family.
Assiniboine Park
Enjoy all the wonders that winter has to offer! The Assiniboine Park Conservancy offers a duck pond that is open for skating in the winter. There is also a toboggan hill and a well-groomed set of cross country ski trails.
In the warmer months, you can rent bikes, ride the steam train, visit the Lyric Theatre, and explore the Terry Fox Fitness Trail.
There is also patios where bars and cafes can be found in the park for a relaxing afternoon bite. Or, explore the Pavilion Art Galleries for a more sophisticated kind of fun.
In the park, you can also visit the Assiniboine Park Zoo where you can see arctic animals, farm animals, tropical animals, and more. Let your kids have a whale of a time at The Polar Playground! This is an indoor playground where children can climb, slide, learn, and explore.
Manitoba Museum
The Manitoba Museum is a not-for-profit heritage centre emphasizing science education. Found in Downtown Winnipeg, this museum offers a vivid portrayal of local natural history.
The current exhibitions on at the museum are:
- The New Prairies Gallery
- The Museum Collection Illuminated: Celebrating 50 Years
- The New Welcome Gallery
- Strike 1919: Divided City
Winnipeg Art Gallery
The Winnipeg Art Gallery maintains a permanent collection of nearly 25,000 works from local and indigenous Canadians. This museum holds the most prolific collection of Inuit art in the world. If you're looking for a day of cultural appreciation and education, this will be a day well spent!
You can also visit their new cafe, Katita which has a seasonal patio. They also offer takeout coffee, tea, and snacks. And don't forget a stop at the gallery's gift shop before you leave. Find exquisite pieces for your home or gifts for loved ones.
New Brunswick
New Brunswick is one of the three maritime provinces within Canada. It has both French and English as official languages. Here are some tourist attractions in this region:
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park, near the village of Alma, offers a rugged coastline with a vast array of beautiful waterfalls. Follow Fundy's Trail System for beautiful scenic hikes through the forest. The trails range from easy, to moderate, to difficult. So whether you're looking for a relaxing walk or a challenging climb, there's a trail for everyone to enjoy.
You can also enjoy biking, golf, fishing, swimming, and paddling at the park. If you're looking to get a little muddy, you can put on your rubber boots and explore the ocean floor when the Bay of Fundy's tides recede. You'll see interesting sea creatures like barnacles, dog whelk sea snails, periwinkles, limpets, rock crabs, and other crustaceans. This is family fun for every nature-lover to enjoy!
Hopewell Rocks
Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park provides three direct access points to the ocean floor. It is a unique natural experience with a distinctive look at both high and low tides. There are over 20 free-standing sea stacks (also known as flowerpots) along the shoreline. The sea stacks all have adorable names such as ET, Dinosaur, Elephant, Bear, and even Mother-in-Law.
You have access to the ocean floor from 3 primary spots. You can stroll along the ocean floor and explore this unique site. There are also a set of trails with lookoffs to enjoy and they are also wheelchair accessible!
Kouchibouguac National Park
This National Park is found on the east coast of New Brunswick. It offers beautiful sand dunes, lagoons, forests, and barrier islands. Kouchibouguac is known for having the warmest salt water beaches north of Virginia. At night, stargazers can marvel at the sky which falls under the Dark Sky Preserve so there is no light pollution here!
The winter is an exciting time to visit the park because of the many activities you can partake in. Try fat biking, snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sliding and tobogganing, winter walking, birdwatching, and winter camping in the back country. You'll develop a love for the snow after a day in Kouchibouguac!
Fundy Trail Parkway
Fundy Trail Parkway is a not-for-profit coastal nature park. It offers a paved parkway that is nestled into the coastal cliffs. This parkway is a haven for hiking enthusiasts. The trail itself is 41km one way. It's also a very scenic drive for those who don't wish to walk. Filled with different lookout points, observation decks, hiking paths, and waterfalls, this is a site you won't want to miss.
Make sure to see the 3 waterfalls along this trail: Fuller Falls, Long Beach Brook Falls, and Mcleod Brook Falls. They are all very different falls so you'll want to see all three.
Irving Nature Park
Irving Nature Park is a free park located in St. John. It is only minutes away from the town centre but provides a safe haven with a beautiful view of an outgoing tide. There are 8 walking trails to enjoy all varying in length. Check out the boardwalk which extends into the salt marsh. Or head to the Lookout Tower where you can get a 360 degree view of both the land and sea.
For a relaxing day spent with family or for a romantic stroll with your partner, Irving Nature Park is the perfect spot to enjoy.
Newfoundland and Labrador
The most easterly province of Canada is Newfoundland and Labrador. The amazing history of this region should not be overlooked, and here are the must-see attractions.
Gros Morne National Park
This national park offers incredible fjords and steep barren cliffs nestled into the nearby mountains. Checkout the Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse Exhibit. You can enjoy the historical lighthouse, have a seaside stroll, and even pack a picnic lunch to enjoy with a view of Lobster Cove Head.
There are tons of trails to hike around the park that range from easy to difficult. The Tablelands and mountain trails being the most popular. If you're looking for a real challenge, try the Snug Harbour Trail. Be aware that it's a muddy path so you should bring a spare change of socks and shoes!
Camping in Gros Morne is a sure-fire way to make your trip unforgettable. With 5 main campgrounds, you'll be sure to find a site that fits all your needs. Back country campers will also be delighted at the more primitive campsites that lie along several trails in the park. Enjoy stargazing at night and roasting marshmallows over the fire.
Signal Hill
History buffs, assemble! Signal Hill overlooks the city of St. John's and it is a National Historic site. Signal Hill was the site of St. John's harbour defences all the way back in the 17th century to WWII where Guglielmo Marconi received the world's first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901. The highest point called Ladies' Lookout is nearly 170 m high.
You can hike one of the 5 trails around the area which range from easy, moderate, to challenging.
For a more immersive experience, step back in time and join the Defenders of the Narrows. Experience what it was like to protect Newfoundland in the late 1800's. You will get suited up in a historic uniform and have the chance to fire a historic rifled musket!
The Rooms
The Rooms is a modern art centre featuring local art emphasizing natural and cultural history. They have a large resource of historical archives, manuscripts, vital statistics and more. A history and war-buff will have an amazing time sifting through this wealth of information.
Art lovers can appreciate several interesting exhibits that range from abstraction to realism, historical artifacts to an incredible teacup collection! You won't want to miss a day at the gallery. After a cultural stroll, enjoy dining at The Rooms Cafe. You can even have a traditional afternoon tea!
Cape Spear
Cape Spear is a local landmark on the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland. It is the easternmost point in Canada and in North America, except for Greenland.
The Cape Spear Lighthouse is a quintessential experience in Newfoundland. The oldest standing lighthouse in NF is a place where visitors can venture inside the lighthouse and see the original 19th-century layout. Across the way there is an art gallery that showcases tons of paintings of the Newfoundland coast. There is also a gift shop for visitors to buy souvenirs!
Don't forget to head to the Quidi Vidi Brewery for a sample of St. John's diverse craft beers! You can sip on a refreshing drink while looking out at the stunning views.
Terra Nova National Park
On the East Coast of Newfoundland is Terra Nova National Park. It rests along several inlets of Bonavista Bay and gets its name from the original Portuguese settlers.
Enjoy more than 80km worth of hiking trails at Terra Nova! These can range from relaxing half an hour strolls to multi-day intense hikes.
Campers will also delight in the many different campsite experiences this park has to offer. From front-country to back-country, group camping, and even oTENTiks! Whatever your camping style is, there's an accommodation for everyone.
Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia is another of the three maritime provinces. Here are the important attractions for travellers:
Cape Breton Highlands National Park
This National Park features incredible trail winds with stunning ocean vistas. If you love the water then Cape Breton is absolutely the place for you. Swim in one of the many beaches the park offer, or try your hand at fishing!
There are also tons trails for biking and hiking enthusiasts. There are special trails dedicated to cyclists like: Salmon Pools, Clyburn Valley, and Le Vieux Chemin du Cap-Rouge. For hikers, there are 26 different hiking trails to explore. All trails have one special thing in common - gorgeous panoramic views of the park's landscape. You won't be disappointed!
Kejimkujik National Park
This protected wilderness on the Atlantic coast offers pristine white sand beaches and a diverse array of potential camping experiences. This national park boasts a beautiful panoramic sky filled with stars at night. This is Nova Scotia's only Dark Sky Preserve, so stargazers can really get a chance to see something magical without any light pollution.
You'll see petroglyphs (rock engravings) around the park, canoe routes, and traditional encampment areas from the presence of the Mi'kmaw people who have been around for thousands of years.
Enjoy hiking, biking, snowshoeing, geocaching, cross-country skiing, picnicking, and stargazing at the park.
Art Gallery of Nova Scotia
The Art Gallery of Nova Scotia is a public Museum in downtown Halifax. It is host to the fully restored Maud Lewis house. The gallery aims to build research on Nova Scotian artists, to build on the history of the collection by producing engaging exhibits, and to establish a regional, national, and international context for artists in Nova Scotia.
You'll be able to see a wide range of works at the gallery. Enjoy their gift shop where you can bring back a special souvenir from your trip.
Point Pleasant Park
Point Pleasant Park lies on the southern end of the Halifax Peninsula. It is a primarily forested municipal park that once hosted an array of artillery batteries.
Park visitors can enjoy 39km worth of easy trails, off-leash dog walking areas, cycling trails, public restrooms, and preserved ruins of early fortifications. If you're lucky, you can even catch a performance by t he Shakespeare by the Sea theatre group! You'll get to enjoy the views of the park with some live entertainment that will be fun for the whole family.
Halifax Citadel
The Halifax Citadel is a national historic site that showcases the history of the local fortress and the soldiers fortified there. The staff at the Halifax Citadel have mastered the art of time-travel (at least that's how it feels when you visit). They transport you back to the life of being a Victorian era soldier. You can join in on a guided tour and explore the fort. At noon you can watch the noon day gun firing. If you listen closely, you can hear the bagpipes already!
For a more spooky side to the Citadel, join the Ghost tour: Dare to be Scared! You'll walk by candlelight through dimly lit passageways towards shadowy chambers. You never know what lies around every corner. Your guide will be telling you the stories that come along with each prison cell you see. You'll enjoy the prickly feeling of your hair standing on-end at this thrilling tour!
Ontario
Ontario is another major province home to the Canadian capital of Ottawa. It is the most populated province in Canada. We've highlighted just a few of the many attractions to visit in this province:
CN Tower
The CN Tower is over 500m tall. It is built on former railway lands and named after Canadian National, which was the original railway company that constructed the tower in 1976. For many years the CN Tower was the tallest tower in the world, but now it has moved down the list. Still, the CN Tower is an iconic tourist attraction to visit for so many reasons.
The first being the glass floor, which you can walk, crawl, and even jump on. If you look down you'll realize just how high up you are! Test your nerve and stomp around on the glass floor. The second attraction is the Edge Walk. For those who need a bit more of an adrenaline rush, get strapped in and walk along the edge of the tower's main pod. You can even lean back off the edge to get a great picture! The third attraction is definitely more luxurious - dining at the 360 restaurant. Enjoy a panoramic view of the entire Toronto skyline while you have a delicious meal. This is definitely an experience you won't want to miss.
Casa Loma
Casa Loma is a Gothic revival-style mansion as well as garden found downtown in Toronto. It's a popular event and wedding venue as it truly looks like a castle from a fairytale! You can find many different tours of the castle that will envelop you in it's history.
You can also enjoy having a delicious meal at Casa Loma. They have the Liberty Cafe which is the ideal spot for your morning coffee and a fresh buttery pastry. At lunch they serve pressed sandwiches, pastas, pastries, and specialty coffees. For a more grandiose meal, visit The Gardens at Casa Loma. This outdoor patio is lit up to perfection where you get a spectacular view of Toronto's skyline. This is a perfect location for a girls night out!
Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo offers nearly 300 hectares of incredible wildlife and diversity. It is divided into seven major geographic regions with distinctive animals from each. This is the perfect place to take your little ones for a day of fun! Enjoy a ride in the Zoomobile or ride the Conservation Carousel. Take a walk through the Greenhouse and see a wide variety of plants from around the world.
For your more adventurous children, go on the Wild Rouge Zipline and Canopy Tour or the Gorilla Climb Ropes Course.
The Kids Zoo and Splash Island are other notable exhibits your kids will absolutely rave about.
Rideau Canal
This canal is a famous waterway right through the heart of Ottawa. It connects to Lake Ontario and the Saint Lawrence River. In the warmer months, strolls along the canal make for a lovely afternoon activity. Many also rent canoes or kayaks to paddle across the canal.
It is the world's largest skating rink in the wintertime. Tourists and locals alike love to lace up and skate across the entire canal. If you don't have your own skates, don't fret! You can rent them at the canal. There are also restrooms, changing facilities, fire puts, and food stands. We recommend trying one of the infamous BeaverTails as it's a Canadian staple!
Royal Ontario Museum
The Royal Ontario Museum provides an impressive collection of world culture and art in downtown Toronto. It is one of the busiest museums in Canada with more than a million visitors each year.
Enjoy the wide range of galleries such as the Gallery of Chinese Architecture, or Eaton Gallery of Rome. Currently, there is an exhibit called #MyPandemicStory: youth create portraits of a pandemic. This exhibit features artwork from Ontario youth aged 4-18 and the aim was to allow them to express their feelings about the pandemic through art. It's a powerful exhibition that is both enlightening and thought provoking.
Prince Edward Island
Prince Edward Island is another maritime province on the eastern coast of Canada. Charlottetown and its surrounding attractions should not be missed.
Confederation Bridge
The Confederation Bridge links the province of Prince Edward Island to the province of New Brunswick on the mainland. It is a box girder bridge extending the Trans-Canada Highway over the Northumberland Strait. This is the longest bridge in Canada at 12.9km long.
You can either drive across the bridge (there is a toll to pay) or you can view the bridge in it's entirety from Chelton Beach Provincial Park. You can head to this charming beach and have a picnic or play with the kids while getting the perfect family photo in front of the Confederation Bridge.
Cavendish Beach
For family fun, splash around at Cavendish Beach! You can play on the beach, see the sunset, and enjoy the feeling of endless summer. There is so much to do around the beach, everyone will have a blast! There are several golf courses if you feel like hitting the links, you can enjoy a trip to the Confederation Centre of the Arts for a theatrical production, or try one of the many delicious restaurants nearby.
One of the most notable attractions is Green Gables Heritage Place which celebrates the famous Anne of Green Gables. Walk in the footsteps of one of Canada's most beloved authors. A trip here includes a tour of the original house, the 19th century gardens, walking trails, events, films, displays, gift shop, and a cafe.
Cavendish Beach hosts a music festival every July. This country music festival has both local and international talents performing. It is a resort community just northwest of the capital, Charlottetown.
Thunder Cove Beach
Thunder Cove Beach is a local hidden treasure. It provides a distinctive, wild-appearing beach of red compacted sand. You can explore the many geological wonders that are scattered across the beach. Coves and cliffs are peppered along the shoreline. This is a gem that locals try to keep to themselves - that's how you know it's special.
Be careful climbing cliffs as the sandstone is fragile rock. If you want to see something remarkable, a short walk or kayak away is a sea stack known as Teacup Rock. The namesake was given because of it's appearance and it's best viewed at sunrise when the waters are calm.
Government House
The Government House was constructed in the early 1830s as a residence for the Lt. Gov. of the colony at that time. It is found in Charlottetown and is Canada's second-oldest place of government. For those who love to learn about history, this attraction should definitely be high on your list.
You can join a guided tour of the site to get the most out of your visit. Marvel at the architecture and the beautiful landscape. Government House is truly an elegant piece of history.
Prince Edward Island National Park
The primary national park of this province is situated along the island's northern shore. It looks out onto the Gulf of St. Lawrence, stretching for nearly 60 km in length. Bask in the beauty of the red cliffs along wind-sculpted dunes. Whether you like sandy beaches or woodland forests, you'll be sure to find your bliss in this national park.
Animals like red fox, warblers, and waterfowl can be seen if you hike woodlands and overlook the ponds. But of course, nothing can beat a bright orange sunset as you sing campfire songs and eat s'mores! Camping in Prince Edward Island National Park can take your trip from good to great.
Quebec
Québec is a primarily French-speaking province on the eastern end of Canada. Its impressive cultural history is maintained by a loyal French-speaking population.
Montmorency Falls
These falls are a beautiful sight to see in the summer. Around 970,000 visitors visit the falls each year. The falls drop from a cliff shore into the St. Lawrence River. There are staircases that allow you to see the falls from different vantage points. You can also cross a suspension bridge that provides access to both sides of the park.
Enjoy a funitel ride (cable-car) that takes you to the base and the top of the falls. In the summer, the park even hosts a fireworks competition where you can see a spectacular show with the falls as a backdrop!
Gatineau Park
This park is the largest green space in the region, with 361 km² of scenic lookouts and multiuse trails. In the winter, enjoy cross-country skiing, snow biking, dog walking, winter hiking and walking, snowshoeing, and winter camping!
The summer makes way for some truly exciting activities like picnicking, swimming, horseback riding, cycling, rock climbing, camping, hiking and walking, boating, in-line skating, and fishing. With endless options at your fingertips, you'll love an adventurous trip to Gatineau Park.
Montreal Botanical Gardens
The Montréal Botanical Gardens offer nearly 25,000 species of plants in 10 exhibition greenhouses. In this 75 hectares to explore, you'll be amazed at all the natural beauty the gardens have to offer.
Walk to the Cultural Gardens and be immersed in the beautiful Chinese Garden, First Nations Garden, or the Japanese Garden. See a wide range of cultural structures and plant life. In October, the Chinese Garden is home to the Garden of Light - Chinese lantern festival. You'll see hundreds of beautiful colourful silk lanterns which create a truly dreamy atmosphere. It's the perfect place for a romantic date!
Mont Tremblant
This ski resort is one of the most impressive on the eastern Canadian mainland. Its acclaimed winter sports scene is second to none, including a variety of winter activities. Try your hand at fat biking, cross-country skiing, alpine touring, dogsledding, snowshoeing, and of course the obvious, skiing and snowboarding.
But Mont Tremblant also offers golf courses in the summer and a local pedestrian shopping village. The village is a hub for lively activity, meals, socializing with friends, and so much more. For example go meet Toufou! He's the mascot for Mont Tremblant and he loves to give high fives and take photos. Find him strolling around the village.
Parc Jean Drapeau
This park lies east of downtown Montréal on the St. Lawrence River. There are two islands in the park that hosted the site of the Expo 67 world's fair. It's a quick metro ride to this park and there is no shortage of things to do! In the warmer months enjoy the multiuse trails, bike links, hiking, public art, SUP and yoga lessons in the park, canoeing, kayaking, picnicking, the floral gardens, and Jean-Dore Beach. The whole family can enjoy clambering around on Aquazilla, an inflatable structure that is like an on-water obstacle course.
In the winter, enjoy the Skaters' Trail, sliding/sledding, and snowshoeing!
Parc Jean Drapeau is also home to La Ronde (amusement park), Casino de Montreal, and the Biosphere. Or if music festivals are more your thing, get tickets to dance the day and night away at Osheaga, IleSoniq, or Piknic Electronik.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan is a Canadian province with beautiful grassland and rugged rocks to the north. Here are just some of the highlights for visitors to the region:
Grasslands National Park
Grasslands National Park offers 3000 km² of amazing outdoor beauty. It is north of Montana along the Canada-US border. You can embrace the really dark skies at night with thanks to the Dark Sky Preserve. Astronomers and stargazers alike will thoroughly enjoy spotting constellations clearly in the night sky.
The park is also ideal for hiking and camping. With many front-country and back-country trails to hike you'll be sure to get your heart pumping! The park offers unique camping experiences for every style of camper. There are regular front-country campsites, more primitive back-country sites, oTENTiks for the glamper, and even equestrian camping!
Prince Albert National Park
Prince Albert National Park is a million-acre park in the heart of Saskatchewan, with vast prairies as well as boreal forest and free-roaming wildlife. On clear nights, you'll be able to gaze up and see the magical Northern Lights dance across the sky. The Milky Way and other constellations can be seen clearly for you to enjoy at Prince Albert National Park, so bring your telescope!
This park is a winter-lovers paradise! Grab a pair of snowshoes or skis for some cross-country skiing. You can also try your hand at ice fishing or enjoy a scenic drive through the park. This is a great spot for wildlife viewing and photography. You can see elk, red foxes, white-tailed deer, otter, or even a wolf if you're lucky!
Wanuskewin
This is a fascinating cultural complex that helps to honour the history of First Nations people in Canada with various exhibits and events. Stroll through the art galleries which are exhibitions by Indigenous artists. Enjoy unique and eye opening works by some of Canada's most talented artists.
Getting hungry after a long day exploring the gallery? Try the Wanuskewin on-site restaurant which features traditional Indigenous cuisine mixed with a contemporary twist. For a once in a lifetime dining experience, you have to try their Hot Elk on Bannock.
Tunnels Of Moose Jaw
The Tunnels of Moose Jaw provides a year-round attraction to history buffs interested in an old tunnel system dug in 1908 by Chinese Canadian settlers during the prohibition. This unique and immersive tour sends you back in time to explore what it was like to live in prohibition times.
There are 3 different tours to take each with a different tale to tell:
- Chicago Connection
- Bunker 24
- Passage to Fortune
Remai Modern
This public art Museum in Saskatoon is situated along the west bank of the South Saskatchewan River. It is a modern and contemporary art museum designed by Bruce Kuwabara. There are tons of unique exhibitions to venture through.
Stop off at the gift shop to pick up some cool memorabilia from your visit. Don't forget to visit the restaurant at the gallery called Shift. It's the latest restaurant from Oliver & Bonacini, one of Canada's leading hospitality groups. They serve everything from snacks to meals, and even a delectable weekend brunch. This sleek and modern dining experience will surely bring out your sophisticated side.
Northwest Territories
The Northwest Territories feature over 1,000,000 km² encompassing forest, mountains, and Arctic tundra. Visitors to this remote landscape should not miss the following:
Nahanni National Park
This National Park lies approximately 500 km west of Yellowknife, protecting a portion of the McKenzie Mountains. Virginia Falls is a multitiered waterfall that drops over 50 feet onto a secondary chute. For views of towering mountains that kiss the crystal waters, you need to head to Nahanni National Park.
This park is perfect for paddling river trips. You can join a tour where a guide will take you along the river where you can experience some thrilling white water! They also offer short day hikes along the way where you can enjoy guided walks with park interpreters during campfire programs.
Virginia Falls
This is a beautiful set of falls just south of the Yukon border. It is twice the height of Niagara Falls. Some say that it's the most beautiful waterfall in the world! It's easy to see why people say that. Virginia Falls is surrounded by 30,000km2 of protected and rarely explored wilderness. Due to it's remote location, a trip to the falls will be unencumbered by tourists. Less than 1000 visitors come to Virginia Falls each year.
That's what makes this waterfall so spectacular, you'll be creating a once in a lifetime, unique experience crafted especially for the people you're travelling with. Be prepared for hiking or portaging to get to the falls as it is in a remote location. But it is well worth the trek!
Prince of Wales Northern Heritage Centre
This heritage centre is the primary museum for the government of the Northwest Territories and its archives. View their collections of stories, objects, and narrative threads. They have unique displays of traditional art, gorgeous textiles, and dioramas that will transport you to different worlds.
They are also wheelchair accessible with ramps, handrails, wide hallways space, and an elevator to the administration area from the second floor.
Aulavik National Park
This national park means "place where people travel." It provides access to the Thompson River, which is one of the most northern navigable rivers on the continent. You can paddle across the Thompson River by canoe or kayak where you can see an abundance of wildlife. Though be advised that the river can be strong and winds can be powerful. This is not a trip for beginner paddlers.
You can hike around the park though there are no designated trails. It's the perfect spot to explore for the traveller who wants no guidelines. The terrain is gentle enough to hike almost anywhere in the park. You'll have lots of photo opportunities along the river, you may even spot some muskoxen!
You're also welcome to camp anywhere in Aulavik National Park except at archaeological sites. There are no campfires allowed so you'll have to use a camp stove and bottled fuel to cook your meals. But this is a rustic camping experience that experienced adventurers will love.
Alexandra Falls
Alexandra Falls is a 32 m waterfall along the Hay River. The falls are dramatic and beautiful. You can enjoy walking along the boardwalk, packing up a delicious picnic, and having a delicious meal with a view of the falls.
There are 2 viewing platforms to get the best view of the falls. Photographers will love snapping shots of this breathtaking landscape!
Nunavut
Nunavut is a massive but sparsely populated territory on the northern end of Canada, forming most of the Canadian Arctic. For brave adventurers to this region, we have gathered the essential highlights:
Auyuittuq National Park
This national park on Baffin Island's Cumberland Peninsula is a famous park within the Arctic Circle. Picturesque chutes and ice fields dominate the terrain. You'll see a skyline of zig-zagging granite peaks and sparkling glaciers that overlook tundra valleys.
You might even spot some ringed seals or narwhals! You can travel the Akshayuk Pass by backpacking, snowshoeing, or skiing. You can also partake in a snowmobile adventure above the arctic circle. Or take a day trip to Ulu Peak. The possibilities are endless!
Quttinirpaaq National Park
This national park is a cluster of islands frozen in the sea. You'll see sparkling ice caps punctured by jagged black peaks. Wild rivers flow through the park that are fueled by the glaciers. The park provides a safe haven for endangered caribou. The name of this park means "the top of the world."
You can join Black Feather guided tours which take you on a multi-day back-country adventure.
Sirmilik National Park
The outdoor opportunities in this national park are outstanding. You can ski from glacier to glacier or hike after snowy owls. Adventurers may also find polar bears, ring seals, and walruses.
In the late summer, Sirmilik is accessible only by water. You can rent a kayak for a once in a lifetime experience. Though it is advised that a paddle at this intensity is for experienced kayakers only.
Mount Asgard
Mount Asgard has two flat-topped rock towers separated by a saddle. The mountain is made up of granite. It is named after Asgard, which is the home of the gods in Norse mythology.
It was first ascended in 1953 and has an elevation of over 2000 m. If you're looking for a real mountaineering adventure, you can climb Mount Asgard. It is rated as one of the best big walls to climb in the world. You will need an experienced tour guide to lead you, as the mountain terrain is difficult.
Beechey Island
This island located in the Arctic Archipelago was host to the lost expedition of Sir John Franklin, one of the first Europeans to set foot in the region in 1819. It is the burial site of many explorers from this expedition. You can walk around and explore the graves as well as take in the view from the island. The bright blue water creates a gorgeous landscape to enjoy as you soak in this interesting tidbit of history!
Yukon
The Yukon region borders Alaska with wild and mountainous terrain. The incredible landscape offers an amazing site to visitors.
Kluane National Park
This national park is a vast wilderness of forests, ice fields, and breathtaking peaks such as Mount Logan. The most popular activity in this national park is hiking. With 15 hiking trails that vary in intensity, you'll have many options to choose from.
Head to Kathleen Lake for awe-inspiring mountain scenery and sparkling waters. Enjoy water activities in the lake, the nearby hiking trails, and even camp at one of their campsites. They offer oTENTiks for a more glamourous camping experience to keep things comfortable for someone who loves nature, but wants a less rustic experience.
Mount Logan
Mount Logan is the highest mountain in all of Canada. It is actually the second-highest peak in North America after Denali. Its first ascent was in 1925, and the mountain maintains a prominence of over 17,000 feet. You can join in on one of the many tours offered at Mount Logan such as a rafting tour on the Dezadeash River. Or try your hand at a snowshoeing tour!
This is the prime location to do some glacier flightseeing. Fly up to the highest peaks in a helicopter and view the spectacular landscapes below. You can see all of Canada's rugged and untouched terrain from a birds eye view.
Tombstone Territorial Park
Tombstone Territorial Park protects a unique set of wilderness with permafrost landforms and a diverse array of wildlife. It is found in central Yukon on the southern end of the Dempster Highway. This is a popular destination for hiking, car camping, back-country camping, winter recreation, and wildlife viewing.
If you're interested in fishing or hunting, you need a Yukon fishing or hunting license to participate in those activities.
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake in the southern Yukon on the South Klondike Highway. It is memorable because of its very intense green colour. The lake is so vibrantly green because of the high concentration of calcium carbonate which comes from limestone gravels eroded from the nearby mountains.
Enjoy this hidden gem in Yukon as it's emerald waters are so captivating. Be sure to snag a picture to show your friends!
Miles Canyon
Miles Canyon provides an ancient landscape with a famous package of rocks and basalts from lava flows and cones that erupted in centuries past. Many agree that it is the most stunning feature of the Yukon river.
The Miles Canyon Loop is a 9.5m moderately trafficked loop. Head towards the Millennium Trail and the Fish Ladder. At the Fish Ladder you can hike up to the Lookout Trail. The route along the river is beautiful, but this is bear country so always be alert and aware of your surroundings.
Explore Canada
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