Canada’s Captivating National Parks

Post contributed by Laura

When it comes to natural beauty, you’ll have to go far to beat Canada. This area may be enormous, but it’s packed with geographical wonders and panoramas that will take your breath away. Adventurous types, adrenaline junkies and those who appreciate nature at its finest will fall head over heels in love with Canada. Here are some highlights to discover and enjoy.

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The Rockies

The Rockies are the jewel in Canada’s crown and the obvious place to start. Home to several national parks, you could spend weeks here, and you’d still enjoy a unique experience each day.

Four of the parks are located adjacent to each other. You’ll find it fairly easy to make your way between Yoho, Jasper, Kootenay and Banff parks. A little further afield, you’ll find Waterton. Marvel at the crystal-clear waters surrounding Spirit Island in Jasper or enjoy a walk with a view on the Athabasca Glacier. Scale the peak of Mount Robson or watch the water tumble gracefully at Yoho’s Takakkaw Falls. Enjoy the peace and tranquility of Lake Louise and keep your peeled for wildlife at Waterton’s Red Rock Canyon. Test your mettle on the rapids of Kicking Horse River or hit the powdery slopes in Banff.

There are all kinds of activities you can enjoy in the Rocky Mountains. You can embark on a solo adventure, or join walking tours. If you go on a tour, you can take advantage of local knowledge and learn more. If you go it alone, you have more freedom and control of your itinerary.

Pacific Rim National Park

Pacific Rim National Park comprises Long Beach, the West Coast Trail, and the Broken Group Islands. Located in British Columbia, this a perfect spot to enjoy hiking, kayaking, and surfing. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast, this is also bear territory. This may put you off camping under the stars. But it offers once in a lifetime opportunities to see grizzly bears in their natural habitat. Join an organized tour to visit the premium bear spotting sites.

Forillon National Park

Offering sweeping sea views, Forillon National Park is a popular choice for families. There are some excellent hiking and cycling routes for all abilities. If you’re lucky, you can also catch a glimpse of whales and dolphins splashing around.

Travel Tips

» If you’re visiting Canada from a different country, you may need to apply for a Canadian eTA online. Check the requirements before you travel.

» When visiting national parks, it may be necessary to apply for permits or visitor passes.

» If you’re camping or taking an RV on the roads, you may also need to secure permission. You can find out more by searching online and visiting the park websites.

No trip to Canada is complete without a visit to at least one of the magnificent national parks. Take these suggestions on board, and try and do some planning and research before you go. There are all kinds of features and sights to discover and a host of activities on offer. Drawing up an itinerary will help to ensure you cram as much into your days as possible.

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