Discover: Canada’s National Parks--majestic peaks to pristine wilderness
The diverse landscapes of Canada’s top national parks are a mix of adventure and natural splendour
Toronto: Canada’s national parks showcase a breathtaking array of landscapes, each offering unique natural wonders and adventure. Whether you're seeking vibrant wildlife, challenging hikes, or serene vistas, Canada’s national parks promise an unforgettable experience for every nature enthusiast.
Canada boasts a network of 37 national parks and 11 national park reserves, collectively safeguarding nearly 343,377 square kilometers of diverse landscapes. These protected areas showcase the country's rich natural heritage, encompassing everything from towering mountains and vast plains to ancient boreal forests, icy tundras, and pristine lakes.
Found in every province and territory, these wild spaces represent 31 of Canada's 39 distinct terrestrial regions. Parks Canada is dedicated to preserving these invaluable ecosystems while providing opportunities for visitors to connect with nature and learn about its importance.
A detail of some of the parks is given below
Banff National Park - scenic wonderland
Canada’s inaugural national park, Banff, is a sprawling 4,126-square-mile expanse nestled in the Canadian Rockies, just 80 miles west of Calgary, Alberta.
Established in 1885, Banff is renowned for its breathtaking limestone peaks, majestic glaciers, and a multitude of icy blue lakes formed as glaciers receded. With over 4 million visitors annually, it stands as the most visited national park in Canada.
Whether you're exploring the vibrant towns or immersing yourself in the pristine natural beauty, Banff is a must-see destination.
Image credit: Banff&LakeLouise
Gros Morne National Park - Fjords and unique landscapes
On Newfoundland’s western edge, Gros Morne National Park unfolds as a stunning blend of fjords, towering mountains, and striking Tablelands—where the Earth’s mantle emerges in a vivid orange expanse. Covering 1,121 square miles, this park is divided by Bonne Bay into northern and southern sections, connected by a ferry.
Start your Gros Morne adventure at Western Brook Pond, a freshwater fjord surrounded by 2,000-foot cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Don’t miss the 9.1-mile Green Garden loop trail, which leads through coastal meadows to Old Man Cove, featuring cliff-flanked beaches and hidden sea caves.
Image credits: DiscoverTheWorld
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve - three parks in one
Spanning 126,500 acres on Vancouver Island’s west coast, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is a diverse gem with three distinct units: Long Beach, Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail.
The Long Beach Unit, accessible by car, boasts sandy beaches and excellent surfing conditions, while the Broken Group Islands require a boat to explore.
The West Coast Trail’s 47-mile footpath is a challenging yet rewarding trek. Be sure to hike the 1.1-mile Nuu-Chah-Nulth Trail for a taste of the park’s terrain, and visit Incinerator Rock for some of the best beginner surfing waves.
Image credit: CanadianSky
Cape Breton Highlands - coastal beauty and scenic trails
On Nova Scotia’s northern tip, Cape Breton Highlands National Park features an elevated plateau dotted with forested canyons and secluded beaches. The park is famed for the Cabot Trail, a scenic road offering stunning overlooks of rocky cliffs and ocean vistas.
The Skyline Trail, a 5.1-mile loop, offers breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and occasional whale sightings.
For a tougher challenge, try the 4.6-mile Franey loop, which provides panoramic views of a forested canyon and the Atlantic coastline. Be cautious of moose, which are more commonly involved in injuries than bears.
Image credits: NovaScotia
Riding Mountain National Park - a hidden prairie jewel
Located in Manitoba, Riding Mountain National Park covers 1,864 square miles of rolling plains, lakes, and dense forests. Known for its understated beauty, the park supports a rich variety of wildlife, including black bears, moose, cougars, lynx, and wolves.
Start at Clear Lake, the park’s hub, and explore the 1,900 lakes and 250 miles of hiking trails. For a brief adventure, the 1-mile Ominik Marsh Trail offers a floating boardwalk through wetlands, while the 6.9-mile Reeve’s Ravine Trail provides panoramic views from Bald Hill.
Image credits: X.com
Auyuittuq National Park - the frozen wilderness
Auyuittuq, located on southern Baffin Island, is aptly named Inuktitut for “the land that never melts.” This Arctic park features towering granite peaks, glaciers, and river valleys. Although remote and challenging to access, with no roads or trails within the park, flights to Pangnirtung and a subsequent boat ride offer the gateway to this icy wonderland.
With no designated trails, Auyuittuq demands preparation and self-sufficiency. Experience its dramatic landscapes and frozen beauty during the summer months when ice and snow reveal the park's rugged splendor.
Image credits: Wikipedia
Canada’s national parks offer diverse experiences from icy fjords to lush rainforests, each with unique landscapes and adventures awaiting explorers.