Canada was the first country in the world to establish national park services. With thousands of miles of protected natural land, it is no surprise that Canadian National Parks are among the best national parks in the world.
It has become the world's premier destination for nature and wildlife lovers. Visitors can expect brilliant landscapes and unique natural wonders, thanks to Canada's vast geography and stunning scenery.
You'll find endless opportunities for outdoor wilderness adventures. Browse the best hotel booking site to take advantage of some awesome offers for a Canada trip.
Here are some of the best national parks to explore in Canada. Each has been assessed for accessibility, beauty, diversity, and the availability of adventure activities.
Table of Contents
National Parks in Canada
1. Thousand Islands, Ontario
Thousand Islands is one of the smallest Canadian National Parks, comprising dozens of granite islands and several mainland bases all filled with pine forests, marshland, and waterways.
Here, you'll encounter some of the richest wildlife in the country. Enjoy exploring the lush terrain on hikes, kayaks, or powerboats.
Popular attractions and activities
- Mallorytown Landing
- Rare turtle and bird species
- Lots of picnic and camping sites
2. Banff National Park (Alberta's Rocky Mountains)
Banff is an iconic national park, and often the first on the bucket list of any nature lover visiting Canada. The park's main attraction is the mountains, which cast their reflections on the blue waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
You can hike through the park or take a guided tour on horseback. There are plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings.
Popular attractions and activities
- Snowboarding
- Skiing
- Winter activities
- Banff Upper Hot Springs
3. Yoho National Park, Alberta and British Columbia
Yoho National Park lies on the border between the Canadian provinces of Alberta and British Columbia. It's less crowded than other parks. Yoho has all the makings of a fantastic getaway, with its bright, vibrant colors and stunning views of Emerald Lake and Lake O'Hara. Lose yourself in some of the rawest and untouched natural wilderness.
Popular attractions and activities
- Natural Bridge
- Takakkaw Falls and Wapta Falls
- Spectacular glaciers and mountain scenery
4. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, Vancouver
Stretching along the shores of the Pacific Ocean, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is sure to humble you with its wild side and rich green forests.
Explore a park that embodies unspoiled Canadian wilderness by taking any number of hiking trails. Experience spectacular coastal cliffs, temperate rainforests, and soft-sand beaches.
Popular attractions and activities
- Spot migrating humpback whales
- Secluded bays and inlets
- Jaw-dropping coastal vistas
- Wild Pacific Trail
5. Kootenay, British Columbia
Kootenay National Park is renowned among locals and visitors for its scenic charm, Radium Hot Springs, and Stanley Glacier. Those interested in seeing the Burgess Shale fossils should head to Stanley Glacier. On the way, you will find endless opportunities for wildlife viewing and scenic drives.
Popular attractions and activities
- Trekking the Marble Canyon Trail
- Relaxing in Radium Hot Springs
- Winter sports and more
6. Gros Morne, Newfoundland
Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO Site and one of the most popular tourist destinations. It boasts miles of incredible scenery and many lookout spots. The park's unique geology and endless hiking trails will appeal to active travelers.
Hike to Gros Morne Mountain, the highest point in the park, and admire deep fjords, granite mountains, abundant forests, and waterfalls.
Popular attractions and activities
- Hiking and wildlife spotting
- Picturesque seaside villages
- Impressive geology
- Beachcombing
- Boating
- Kayaking
7. Gaspésie, Quebec
Gaspésie National Park was founded in 1937 to protect the caribou, salmon, and the natural beauty of the most beautiful mountains. The park boasts an incredible array of arctic-alpine flora and remarkable wildlife.
The reserve's rugged beauty and nature draw thousands of visitors each year. Keen photographers shouldn't miss the opportunity to capture unique sunrises or sunsets.
Popular attractions and activities
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Stand-up paddleboarding
- White-tailed deer
- Moose
- Chic Choc and McGarrigle mountains
- Mont Jacques-Cartier trail
8. Mont-Tremblant, Quebec
Mont-Tremblant Park makes for a great weekend getaway from Ottawa and an excellent way to explore eastern Canada.
Once inside this national park, you're introduced to an environment full of rivers, streams, lakes, mountain peaks, sandy beaches, and more. You can sleep almost anywhere, as there are hundreds of camping spots available.
Popular attractions and activities
- Rock climbing
- Footbaths, walkways, and bridges
- Camping
- Méandres de la Diable route
- Crémaillère and Lac-Provost beaches
9. Jasper, Alberta
Situated on the Rockies, Jasper National Park is famous for its teal-streaked lakes, snow-capped peaks, and massive glacial icefields. Visit Jasper and feast your eyes on its legendary scenery, and take advantage of the extensive network of hiking and biking trails. Stop at the laid-back town of Jasper to relax before or after your wilderness adventure.
Popular attractions and activities
- Bears, elk, caribou, and bighorn sheep
- Stargazing
- Trekking and camping
- Dark Sky Festival in October
Visit the abovementioned Canadian National Parks to experience incredible North American wilderness environments. These parks can be a regular base for outdoor adventures and wildlife viewing.
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