Canada is well-known for its iconic and diverse cities, but as the second-largest country in the world, it also has expansive mountain ranges, beautiful fresh-water lakes, and dense forests that are home to stunning wildlife. With 48 national parks across the country, they cover three percent of Canada. If you’re a nature lover that gasps at picturesque views and enjoys hiking, keep reading about our favorite five national parks in Canada.
Banff National Park, Alberta
Banff National Park attracts more than 3 million tourists a year. The number isn’t surprising, given it is home to Lake Moraine and Lake Louise, two of the most photographed lakes in Canada.
There is so much to see and do in this picturesque national park, from hiking on the 32 trails to catching a glimpse of the wildlife that roams the forests.
Is one day not enough? It’s safe to say it won’t be since there is so much to see. So, there are several resorts, lodges, Airbnb rentals, and campgrounds in and around the park that will allow you to extend your stay.
Bruce Peninsula National Park, Ontario
Located only three hours north of Toronto is the gorgeous Bruce Peninsula, National Park.
Craggy cliffs rise from the choppy waters of Georgian Bay, and cedar trees line the edges. In the summer, visitors can take a dip in the warm turquoise waters of Singing Sands Beach.
In the winter, the park operates with limited activities as it can get dangerous. There is always the option to cross-country ski or snowshoe but be extra cautious as some trails aren’t maintained in the winter.
Yoho National Park, British Columbia
Sitting on the western side of the Canadian Rocky Mountains in British Columbia is Yoho National Park. Tall, rolling mountains with rushing waterfalls that crash into crystalline lakes are what bring so many visitors to this park every year.
The Burgess Shale fossils are a UNESCO World Heritage site and visitors can go there on a guided hike. These fossils give evidence of the oldest complex life on Earth, over 500 million years old. The fossils are preserved so well that you can see more than just bones – intestines, eyeballs, and brains are also imprinted in these stones.
Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia
Cape Breton Highlands National Park is where the mountains meet the sea. This magnificent national park is filled with deep river valleys, soaring mountain peaks, and wandering wildlife. One of the crown jewels of Nova Scotia, there are 26 hiking trails for everyone to enjoy, from beginners to advanced and all hikers in between.
The Skyline hike is on the longer side—it’s about five miles in total—but brings visitors to jaw-dropping cliffs that overlook the sea. If hiking isn’t for you, the world-famous Cabot Trail has beautiful views that can be seen from the comfort of your car.
Jasper National Park, Alberta
Jasper National Park spans over 4,200 square miles, making it Canada’s largest national park. Since this park is less accessible and double the size of Banff, there are more opportunities to see wildlife like bears, elks, mountain goats, wolves, and so many more.
Thirty-seven hiking trails are great for the whole family and are fairly beginner-friendly. Winter is a lovely time to visit as there are plenty of winter activities offered, like skiing and snowshoeing, plus the mountains and trees are dusted with snow, making it a serene winter wonderland.