National Parks To Visit In Canada

Canada is home to some of the most pristine natural settings in the world. From quaint islands to rugged terrain, the expansive country has it all.

Try Wood Buffalo National Park on for size. At almost 17,000 square miles, it covers a space larger than the entire country of Switzerland. Located in Alberta and the Northwest Territories, it was created to protect herds of bison and is a great spot to see the Northern Borealis Plains.

Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve and Haida Heritage Site is one long name for a UNESCO World Heritage site and national park. The park is made up of more than 130 islands and gives visitors a look at more than 500 discovered ancient native sites. Plan your visit ahead of time, as you’ll need a boat or plane to reach the islands, and either a tour operator or an official reservation.

Moraine Lake © Helena Bilková | Dreamstime

Banff National Park is, of course, probably the most well known. Canada’s first national park, it is now home to luxury ski resorts and hot springs, attracting millions of travelers every year.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, you’ll find Torngat Mountains National Park. The beautiful scenery is only one great aspect of your visit. You’ll also have the pleasure of interacting with the all-Inuit staff, viewing the Northern Lights, exploring one of the country’s highest peaks and spotting a polar bear or two.

A quick stop on your Vancouver itinerary, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is a great place for any outdoor activities. Camping, hiking and enjoying the Pacific Northwest scenery are all unbeatable experiences.

Pacific Rim National Park, British Columbia © Riekefoto | Dreamstime