Canada’s vast and diverse landscapes make it a paradise for road trip enthusiasts. From the towering Rocky Mountains to the rugged coastlines and lush forests, each journey offers breathtaking scenery and unforgettable experiences. For nature lovers, these road trips provide a chance to connect with the country’s natural beauty and explore its hidden gems. Here are the top 10 scenic road trips across Canada that every nature lover should experience.
1. Icefields Parkway, Alberta
The Icefields Parkway, stretching 232 kilometers between Jasper and Banff, is often hailed as one of the most beautiful drives in the world. This iconic route takes you through the heart of the Canadian Rockies, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, emerald lakes, and ancient glaciers.
Highlights:
- Athabasca Glacier: Part of the Columbia Icefield, visitors can take guided tours onto the glacier.
- Peyto Lake: Famous for its wolf-head shape and striking blue color, it’s a must-see viewpoint.
- Bow Lake: A serene spot perfect for a picnic or a short hike.
This road trip is a wildlife haven, with chances to see bears, elk, and bighorn sheep. Multiple campgrounds and hiking trails along the route provide ample opportunities for adventure and exploration.
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2. Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
The Cabot Trail is a 298-kilometer loop around Cape Breton Island, offering stunning coastal vistas, rolling hills, and vibrant Acadian culture. This road trip combines dramatic ocean views with lush forests and picturesque villages.
Highlights:
- Cape Breton Highlands National Park: Home to rugged cliffs, scenic lookouts, and diverse wildlife.
- Pleasant Bay: Known for whale watching tours and beautiful sunsets.
- Ingonish Beach: A lovely spot for swimming and relaxing.
The Cabot Trail is particularly breathtaking in the fall when the foliage turns vibrant shades of red, orange, and gold. Numerous hiking trails, including the Skyline Trail, offer unforgettable views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
3. Sea to Sky Highway, British Columbia
The Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) stretches from Vancouver to Whistler, covering 121 kilometers of spectacular scenery. This road trip takes you from the Pacific Ocean’s edge through coastal rainforests and up into the majestic mountains.
Highlights:
- Shannon Falls: One of BC’s tallest waterfalls, easily accessible from the highway.
- Sea to Sky Gondola: Offers panoramic views of Howe Sound and surrounding peaks.
- Brandywine Falls: A beautiful 70-meter waterfall, with a short hike to the viewpoint.
This drive is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and exploring charming towns like Squamish. In Whistler, enjoy world-class skiing, mountain biking, and dining.
4. Trans-Canada Highway, Newfoundland
The Trans-Canada Highway across Newfoundland offers a journey through diverse landscapes, from rocky coastlines and dense forests to serene lakes and quaint fishing villages. This route, stretching from St. John’s to Port aux Basques, spans approximately 900 kilometers.
Highlights:
- Gros Morne National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with stunning fjords and mountains.
- Terra Nova National Park: Offers beautiful coastal scenery and excellent hiking trails.
- Cape Spear: The easternmost point in North America, with historic lighthouses and ocean views.
Newfoundland’s rich cultural heritage and friendly locals add to the charm of this road trip. The scenic beauty combined with the island’s unique history makes for a memorable adventure.
5. Viking Trail, Newfoundland and Labrador
The Viking Trail (Route 430) is a historic and scenic route that stretches over 489 kilometers from Deer Lake to the tip of the Great Northern Peninsula. This drive takes you through the heart of Newfoundland and Labrador’s rugged landscapes and rich Viking history.
Highlights:
- L’Anse aux Meadows: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s the only authenticated Norse site in North America.
- Gros Morne National Park: With its striking fjords and ancient mountains.
- Port au Choix National Historic Site: Rich in indigenous history and archaeological finds.
The Viking Trail offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance, making it a must-visit for nature and history enthusiasts alike.
6. Route 132, Quebec
Route 132 along the Gaspé Peninsula in Quebec offers a journey through some of the province’s most scenic and diverse landscapes. This 885-kilometer loop showcases dramatic cliffs, picturesque villages, and rich maritime culture.
Highlights:
- Forillon National Park: With its rugged coastlines, forests, and wildlife.
- Percé Rock: An iconic natural rock formation in the Gulf of St. Lawrence.
- Bonaventure Island: Known for its large colony of northern gannets.
This road trip is perfect for those who love exploring quaint coastal towns, enjoying fresh seafood, and taking in stunning ocean views.
7. Confederation Bridge to Prince Edward Island
While not a long road trip, crossing the Confederation Bridge from New Brunswick to Prince Edward Island (PEI) is an experience in itself. The bridge, spanning 12.9 kilometers, is the longest bridge over ice-covered waters in the world.
Highlights:
- Prince Edward Island National Park: Known for its red sand beaches and rolling dunes.
- Cavendish Beach: Famous for its beautiful coastline and links to “Anne of Green Gables.”
- Charlottetown: The charming capital city with a rich history and vibrant arts scene.
Exploring PEI by car allows you to visit its picturesque lighthouses, lush farmland, and charming villages, all while enjoying the island’s peaceful and scenic environment.
8. Dempster Highway, Yukon and Northwest Territories
For the more adventurous road-tripper, the Dempster Highway offers a rugged and remote journey through the Yukon and Northwest Territories. This 740-kilometer gravel road stretches from Dawson City, Yukon, to Inuvik, Northwest Territories.
Highlights:
- Tombstone Territorial Park: Known for its dramatic peaks and tundra landscapes.
- Arctic Circle: Cross this latitude line on your way north.
- Mackenzie Delta: A vast and intricate wetland area rich in wildlife.
The Dempster Highway offers unparalleled opportunities for solitude and adventure, with chances to see wildlife like caribou, grizzly bears, and arctic foxes. The remote and untouched landscapes provide a true wilderness experience.
9. Lake Superior Circle Tour, Ontario
The Lake Superior Circle Tour is a 2,092-kilometer route that loops around the world’s largest freshwater lake. This drive takes you through Ontario and the U.S. states of Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, offering breathtaking views and diverse landscapes.
Highlights:
- Sleeping Giant Provincial Park: Known for its striking cliffs and scenic vistas.
- Pukaskwa National Park: Offers rugged coastal trails and beautiful wilderness areas.
- Apostle Islands National Lakeshore: Famous for its sea caves and pristine beaches.
The Lake Superior Circle Tour is perfect for those who love water, forests, and remote beaches. The route offers numerous opportunities for hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of the Great Lakes region.
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10. Cowboy Trail, Alberta
The Cowboy Trail (Highway 22) in Alberta offers a scenic drive through rolling foothills, ranchlands, and the majestic Rocky Mountains. This 700-kilometer route runs from Mayerthorpe to Lundbreck, showcasing Alberta’s ranching heritage and stunning landscapes.
Highlights:
- Bar U Ranch National Historic Site: A historic ranch that offers a glimpse into Alberta’s cowboy culture.
- Kananaskis Country: Known for its outdoor recreational opportunities and stunning mountain scenery.
- Crowsnest Pass: A picturesque mountain pass with a rich history and beautiful views.
The Cowboy Trail is perfect for those who appreciate the open road, wide-open spaces, and the chance to experience Alberta’s cowboy culture. Horseback riding, hiking, and exploring small towns are all part of the adventure.
Conclusion
Canada’s scenic road trips offer a diverse and breathtaking way to explore the country’s natural beauty. From the rugged coastlines of the Atlantic to the majestic peaks of the Rockies, each journey provides unique experiences and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re seeking adventure, tranquility, or a deeper connection with nature, these road trips are sure to inspire and delight you. So pack your bags, hit the road, and discover the stunning landscapes that make Canada a nature lover’s paradise.
Also read: Exploring Canada’s Natural Wonders: A Guide to the Most Beautiful National Parks