8 Canadian National Parks to Explore for Breathtaking Scenery, Wildlife, and Indigenous Heritage

Ah, Canada—we could rave endlessly about your natural wonders. Every country showcases its own distinct landscapes, but few can rival the diversity found in the Great White North. From the Pacific to the Atlantic, the Arctic to the Rockies... shall we go on?

As the world’s second-largest country by land area, yet with a population smaller than California's, Canada is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Just glance at its 37 national parks and 10 national park reserves (the latter includes areas with one or more Indigenous land claims) for evidence: Visit Banff to witness the stunning Rocky Mountain scenery, or escape to a remote park that welcomes fewer than 30 visitors a year (hello to Tuktut Nogait National Park in the Arctic).

Whether you’re into surfing, hiking, wildlife watching, or all of the above, get ready to grab your backpack and discover the treasures these eight unforgettable national parks and reserves have to offer.

1. Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve

British Columbia

The secluded Haida Gwaii archipelago off British Columbia's coast is home to the expansive 570-square-mile Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, covering the southern third of the islands. Here, amidst lush rainforests, you might spot bald eagles soaring above and sea lions basking on the shores, all while wandering among majestic trees like sitka spruce, western hemlock, and red cedar. The red cedar holds particular significance for the Haida people, who have inhabited Haida Gwaii for over 10,000 years. The Haida skillfully weave cedar bark into baskets, construct traditional longhouses from its wood, and carve impressive totem poles that can be seen throughout the park reserve and the surrounding islands.

Getting to Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve

Accessing the park reserve requires travel by boat or seaplane. Parks Canada indicates that the journey through the scenic inside waters of Carmichael Passage and Dana Passage from Moresby Camp to Gwaii Haanas takes approximately two days. The most convenient way to reach Gwaii Haanas is by employing a licensed operator. Visitors are also encouraged to take the Haida Pledge to honor the land.

2. Banff National Park

Alberta

In the 1870s, as the Canadian Pacific Railway was being constructed to link the eastern and western coasts of Canada, an unexpected discovery occurred. Workers stumbled upon several hot springs in the Bow Valley of the Canadian Rockies, and soon realized the site was better suited for relaxation than railroads. To resolve the conflicts over who could develop the springs, the Canadian government established a reserve in 1885, leading to the creation of Banff National Park (originally known as Banff Hot Springs Reserve until its renaming in 1930).

Spanning 2,564 square miles, the park remains unspoiled despite being the most popular in Canada’s national parks system. While many flock to admire the stunning turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, there are countless trails and waterfalls to explore during the summer months. In winter, ascend Sulphur Mountain and enjoy a soak in the historic hot springs that initially made Banff a national park.

For a fresh take on the classic national park experience, consider booking an Indigenous “medicine walk” tour with Mahikan Trails, where you’ll discover the healing properties of plants such as trembling aspen, rose hips, and wolf willow.

Getting to Banff National Park

If you’re not driving yourself to Banff, Calgary International Airport is located about 80 miles away and offers direct flights from cities like Denver, San Francisco, and New York. Once you arrive, you’ll need to rent a car for the 1.5-hour drive to the park via Trans-Canada 1 West.

3. Fundy National Park

New Brunswick

Stroll along the shores of New Brunswick’s Fundy National Park on Canada’s eastern coast, and you might discover that your return path is completely submerged. This is a common occurrence in this park located on the Bay of Fundy, known for boasting the world’s highest tides—up to 50 feet.

For an exhilarating adventure during high tide at the Bay of Fundy, try tidal bore rafting, which involves a thrilling ride on the standing waves that form as the tide rushes into the Shubenacadie River.

Getting to Fundy National Park

While the closest airport to this region of New Brunswick is Greater Moncton Roméo LeBlanc International Airport, Halifax offers significantly better connections. (American Airlines provides direct flights from several U.S. cities, including Washington, D.C., New York City, and Tampa.) From Halifax airport, you can rent a car and drive approximately 200 miles east to reach Fundy National Park.

4. Jasper National Park

Alberta

If you believe Banff is the sole gem of the Canadian Rockies, think again: When UNESCO recognized this region as a World Heritage site in 1984, it included Jasper, Kootenay, and Yoho parks as well. The largest of the four, Jasper National Park, covers an impressive 4,300 square miles. With 2.1 million visitors in 2021 (compared to Banff’s 3.6 million), Jasper’s relatively quieter atmosphere creates more opportunities for capturing memories with the local Rocky Mountain wildlife.

If you’re looking to visit one of the park’s more famous spots, make your way to Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. Enjoy the breathtaking views, which feature three glaciers visible year-round.

Getting to Jasper National Park

Edmonton’s airport is conveniently located near Jasper and offers direct flights from numerous North American airports, including Denver and San Francisco. Once you arrive, be ready for a drive, as the park is still 200 miles away. However, if you plan to visit Banff National Park on the same trip, taking Highway 93—known as the Icefields Parkway—between the two parks provides a stunningly scenic drive, showcasing ancient glaciers, lakes, and the beautiful larches and pines of the Rockies.

5. Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Nova Scotia

Located in northern Nova Scotia, Cape Breton Highlands National Park offers a wealth of activities amidst its stunning highland and ocean scenery. Much of the 360-square-mile park can be enjoyed from the comfort of your car, particularly along the Route 30 loop (also known as the Cabot Trail), which hugs the Atlantic shoreline on one side and the Gulf of St. Lawrence on the other. Drive at a leisurely pace, not only to soak in the breathtaking coastal views at every turn—this is prime whale-watching territory, where lucky visitors might spot minke or pilot whales surfacing for air. You can also bike portions of the 185-mile loop or choose from the park’s 26 picturesque hiking trails.

How to reach Cape Breton Highlands National Park

The easiest way to access this part of Nova Scotia is via Halifax airport, which has direct connections to many major hubs across the continent. From there, you’ll drive approximately 150 miles north to Cape Breton Island. Continue north on Nova Scotia Highway 105 for another 65 miles to reach the Cabot Trail. The final 50-mile stretch to the park takes about an hour to drive.

6. Auyuittuq National Park

Nunavut

A journey to the Arctic promises adventure, and Auyuittuq National Park delivers on that promise. During winter, this expansive 8,300-square-mile park is primarily a realm of rock and ice, rendering multi-day hikes challenging to impossible. However, in the summer, you can immerse yourself in endless exploration of fjords, glaciers, and vibrant fields of wildflowers, all under the enchanting glow of the Midnight Sun. Experience the breathtaking beauty of the tundra by visiting its three iconic peaks: Mount Odin, Mount Asgard, and Mount Thor—names that evoke legends.

Getting to Auyuittuq National Park

As much as we cherish a good road trip, reaching Auyuittuq National Park by car isn’t an option. Instead, you’ll need to fly from either Toronto or Ottawa to Iqaluit, the capital of Nunavut, and then take a short flight to either Pangnirtung or Qikiqtarjuaq. From both of these locations, you can catch a boat to access the park’s trailheads—Pangnirtung from the east and Qikiqtarjuaq from the west. Once in the park, exploration will be on foot.

7. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

British Columbia

Pacific Rim National Park Reserve encompasses 197 square miles of temperate rainforest, showcasing the enchanting interplay between the majestic Pacific Coast and the lush lowland forests of Vancouver Island. Here, expansive sand dunes and towering sitka spruce trees shield the interior from fierce Pacific winds, nurturing a fragile ecosystem that is home to threatened species like the little brown bat and dromedary jumping-slug.

The reserve is divided into three distinct sections, each with its own charm. The northernmost area, known as Long Beach, is a year-round paradise for surfers. For a more tranquil experience, venture southeast to the Broken Group islands, where kayakers and campers can explore over 100 islands, islets, and outcrops. Experienced hikers can embark on the week-long West Coast Trail, navigating over 100 ladders along its 47 miles as they traverse the coastal cliffs of the Pacific.

How to reach Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Due to its remote location on the western side of Vancouver Island, your best option is to drive to either the ports of Nanaimo or Victoria. If you're departing from Victoria, head north on Highway 1 until you reach Highway 19 (near Nanaimo). Continue north for 30 miles until you connect with Highway 4, which will lead you to the Long Beach section of the park.

8. Wapusk National Park

Manitoba

Wapusk is the Cree word for polar bear, aptly named as it is one of the best national parks for observing these magnificent creatures. Located just south of Churchill, known as the polar bear capital of the world, this expansive 4,400-square-mile area of boreal forest and Arctic tundra is also home to various Arctic wildlife, including moose, wolves, Arctic foxes, and 200 different bird species. At night, be sure to look up—the park's remote location makes it an excellent spot for viewing the northern lights.

How to access Wapusk National Park

This park is a true wilderness, devoid of any trails or roads that might disrupt its natural beauty. To navigate the park, you'll need to arrange a visit with a licensed tour operator, so it’s wise to make your reservations in advance, especially during the polar bear viewing season in winter. Several tours and guides for Wapusk National Park are available from Churchill, which can be accessed via a 1.5-hour flight or a two-night train journey from Winnipeg.

This article was first published online in August 2022 and was updated on March 14, 2024, to reflect the latest information.