It’s no wonder most Canadians are nature enthusiasts with so many beautiful national parks to explore. Whether you’re in search of soaring mountains, endless forests, sparkling lakes, or coastal scenery, there are endless opportunities for adventure. From coast to coast, we’ve put together a list of Canada’s Best National Parks for you to discover.
Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland
This UNESCO World Heritage site provides a rare example of plate tectonics as the ocean crust and rocks from the Earth’s mantle lie exposed. Although a great place for many outdoor activities, Gros Morne appeals to hikers especially. Head to the Tablelands and explore the ancient sea floor and preserved ocean avalanches.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia
The mountains meet the sea at Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Travel along the Cabot Trail within the park and keep your eyes peeled for land, sea, and sky creatures alike such as moose, bald eagles, and whales.
Fundy National Park, New Brunswick
Featuring the world’s highest tides, pristine forests, many waterfalls, and deluxe campgrounds, Fundy National Park is a nature lover’s paradise. Spend your day exploring coastal roads, watching the 25 foot tides come in, and whale watching. There’s also a nine-hole golf course and heated saltwater swimming pool for those looking for a bit of luxury.
Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec
Colossal limestone outcroppings formed from ancient erosion make up what is now known as Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve. Due to the unique combination of geology and climate, many rare plants can be found here. It’s also a haven for marine birds come springtime. Bird watchers can find nesting puffins, razorbills, guillemots, terns, and kittiwakes on the islands.
Bruce Peninsula National Park, Ontario
Located on the northern tip of the Bruce Peninsula, this park offers sparkling turquoise waters, limestone cliffs, and ancient forests to be explored (and captured with photos)! Canada’s longest and oldest footpath, The Bruce Trail, cuts through the park and offers challenging and remote hiking with interesting flora, fauna and geology. A notable spot for visitors is The Grotto – a scenic cave with a pool of blue water.
Riding Mountain National Park, Manitoba
Riding Mountain National Park is an island of wilderness surrounded by farmland. The grasslands and forests of the park come alive with an abundance of species such as black bear, elk, mosse, and lynx. With an extensive trail system and camping options for all levels, this park is a great option for wildlife enthusiasts.
Wapusk National Park, Manitoba
Located in the Hudson Plains ecozone, Wapusk National Park lies at the transition between boreal forests and arctic tundra. The park also protects one of the largest polar bear denning areas in the world. Access is limited due to its remote location and effort to preserve the park, so if you’re looking to check polar bear watching off your bucket list, our Canadian Wildlife Safari is the perfect excursion.
Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta
Although not technically a National Park, we thought Dinosaur Provincial Park was well worth a mention as it is in the heart of Alberta’s badlands, about a 2.5 hour drive from Calgary. In addition to its unique topography such as hoodoos, some of the most important dinosaur fossil discoveries ever made occured in the park.
Banff National Park, Alberta
The flagship of Canada’s park system has it all with Rocky Mountain peaks, glacial lakes, a charming mountain village, and wildlife galore. Be sure to visit the stunning Lake Louise and perhaps stop for afternoon tea at the historic Chateau Lake Louise.
Mount Revelstoke National Park, British Columbia
With a compelling history and interesting natural features, Mount Revelstoke National Park has something for every wanderer. Walk amongst giants at the world’s only inland cedar rainforest and stand at the top of what was once a world-famous ski jump.
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, British Columbia
This park is the perfect representation of the West Coast experience with rugged coasts and temperate rainforests. Pacific Rim is comprised of three separate regions: Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail. Suit up and surf at the endless beach, take the hike of a lifetime, and hear ancient legends around the campfire.
Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon
Home to the highest peak in Canada (Mount Logan) and largest non-polar ice fields in the world, Kluane National Park and Reserve is the destination of a lifetime. Take a “flightseeing” tour and soar past mountains, over valleys and up to the icefields.
Get closer to nature on a getaway with Guided North and prepare for an outdoor adventure. We customize experiences to suit your travel style and can design a trip that checks off all the boxes with the expertise of a professional travel planner. Explore our portfolio of wildlife and nature journeys led by top-notch guides and see what Canada has in store.