By Barry Coughlan
Canada is a country blessed with an abundance of natural beauty, from majestic mountains to pristine coastlines.
Among its most cherished treasures are its national parks, which offer visitors the chance to immerse themselves in some of the most stunning landscapes on Earth.
I have been lucky enough to experience first hand some of Canada’s magnificent scenery, Ontario in the fall, British Columbia in early summer. Sweet memories haven’t dimmed in the slightest as the decades roll on.
I can imagine then the enduring beauty of areas given more prestigious national recognition, and I would urge those having Canada on a bucket list, particularly those with increased interest in activity holidays to check out the areas ripe for visitation.
There are, in fact, close to 50, but to kick start a search, we have compiled a starter list of five to consider. There are details of many more on appropriate websites including one specifically for parks.
Banff National Park
Tucked away in the heart of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, Banff National Park is a true gem. Established in 1885, it is not only Canada’s first national park but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The park is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of activities such as hiking, camping, skiing, and wildlife viewing.
One of the park’s most iconic features is Lake Louise, whose turquoise waters are set against the backdrop of the towering Victoria Glacier. Another must-visit spot is the town of Banff itself, where visitors can soak in the stunning mountain scenery while exploring charming shops and restaurants.
Jasper National Park
Just north of Banff lies Jasper National Park, the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. With its vast wilderness, pristine lakes, and rugged mountain peaks, Jasper offers endless opportunities for adventure.
Hikers can explore a network of trails that wind through ancient forests, alpine meadows, and glacial valleys, while wildlife enthusiasts can spot elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and even grizzly bears.
One of the park’s highlights is the Columbia Icefield, where visitors can walk on the Athabasca Glacier or take a thrilling ride on the Glacier Skywalk, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
Yoho National Park
Located in south eastern British Columbia, Yoho National Park is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Despite its smaller size compared to other parks, Yoho is packed with natural wonders, including towering waterfalls, pristine lakes, and jagged peaks.
One of the park’s most famous attractions is Takakkaw Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada. Another must-see spot is Emerald Lake, whose vivid turquoise waters are surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains.
For those seeking adventure, Yoho offers excellent hiking trails, including the famous Iceline Trail, which offers stunning views of glaciers and alpine meadows.
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Situated on the rugged west coast of Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Divided into three distinct regions – Long Beach, the Broken Group Islands, and the West Coast Trail – the park offers a diverse range of landscapes and activities.
Long Beach is famous for its endless stretches of sandy beaches and pounding surf, making it a popular spot for surfing, kayaking, and beachcombing.
The Broken Group Islands, meanwhile, offer pristine wilderness and excellent sea kayaking opportunities, while the West Coast Trail is a challenging backpacking route winding through old-growth rainforests and rugged coastline.
Gulf Islands National Park Reserve
Close to Vancouver, Gulf Islands National Park Reserve offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Consisting of several islands scattered across the Salish Sea, the park is a paradise for kayakers, hikers, and nature lovers.
Visitors can explore lush forests, secluded beaches, and charming coastal communities as they discover the natural beauty of the Gulf Islands. Wildlife enthusiasts will also delight in the chance to spot seals, sea lions, otters, and a variety of bird species.
Canada’s national parks are a testament to the country’s incredible natural diversity and beauty. For those seeking adventure or simply looking to reconnect with nature, a visit to these must-see national parks is sure to be an inspirational experience.
NOTE: There are 37 national parks and 10 national park reserves in Canada that represent 31 of Canada’s 39 terrestrial natural regions and protect approximately 130,000 square miles of Canada’s lands.
These wild places, located in every province and territory, range from mountains and plains, to boreal forests and tundra, to lakes and glaciers, and much more.
Parks Canada is responsible for protecting these areas, and for managing them for visitors to understand, appreciate, and enjoy in a way that doesn’t compromise their ecological integrity.
You can find more information on all of Canada’s National Parks at parks.canada.ca/pn-np.