Canada is a country of vast landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and breathtaking natural beauty. While many travelers focus on bustling cities like Vancouver, Toronto, and Ottawa, the true heart of the Great White North lies in its incredible national parks. From towering mountains and lush forests to crystal-clear lakes and rugged coastlines, these parks showcase Canada at its finest.
If you’re looking for adventure, tranquility, and stunning scenery, here are 10 of the best national parks in Canada you won’t want to miss on your next trip.
10. Yoho National Park (British Columbia)
Straddling the Alberta-British Columbia border, Yoho National Park is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor, Banff. However, this park is a hidden gem, offering all the majestic beauty of the Rockies—but with fewer crowds.
Why Visit?
Emerald Lake – A surreal turquoise lake that looks like something from a dream.
Lake O’Hara – One of the most picturesque alpine lakes in Canada.
Takakkaw Falls – One of the tallest waterfalls in Canada, plunging 373 meters (1,224 feet).
Natural Bridge – A fascinating rock formation sculpted by the Kicking Horse River.
Located just two hours from Calgary, Yoho National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers.
9. Prince Edward Island National Park (Prince Edward Island)
This coastal paradise is located on Canada’s only island province, offering breathtaking red sandstone cliffs, rolling dunes, and pristine beaches.
Top Attractions:
Cavendish Beach – Famous for its golden sand and stunning ocean views.
Covehead Harbour Lighthouse – A quintessential maritime landmark perfect for photos.
Green Gables Heritage Place – The real-life inspiration for Anne of Green Gables.
Whether you’re hiking, swimming, or exploring historic sites, this Atlantic coastal gem is packed with charm and beauty.
8. Auyuittuq National Park (Nunavut)
Baffin Island – This Arctic wonderland is one of the most remote and breathtaking parks in Canada.
Why It’s Unique:
24-Hour Sunlight (June & July) – Experience the Midnight Sun, where the sun never sets.
Towering Peaks – Home to Mount Thor, the world’s steepest vertical drop.
Indigenous Culture – Explore Inuit artwork, traditions, and history.
Unique Adventures – Try dog sledding, igloo camping, or Arctic hiking.
If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Auyuittuq National Park is a true bucket-list destination.
7. Gros Morne National Park (Newfoundland & Labrador)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gros Morne National Park is a geological wonder shaped by glaciers, plate tectonics, and time.
Must-See Attractions:
Western Brook Pond Fjord – Take a boat tour through towering cliffs.
Tablelands – A rare sight where Earth’s mantle is exposed above ground.
Cow Head Lighthouse – A historic lighthouse with incredible coastal views.
If you love hiking and jaw-dropping landscapes, this park is a must-visit.
6. Riding Mountain National Park (Manitoba)
Nestled in Manitoba’s Parkland region, Riding Mountain is a wild oasis offering a mix of pristine lakes, rolling hills, and incredible wildlife.
Top Things to Do:
Hike Loon’s Island Trail – Spot beavers, elk, wolves, and cougars.
Visit Wasagaming – A charming town with local shops and restaurants.
Explore Lake Audy’s Bison Range – See wild bison roaming free.
With its dense forests and open prairies, this park is perfect for campers, hikers, and photographers.
5. Waterton Lakes National Park (Alberta)
Sharing a border with Glacier National Park (USA), Waterton Lakes National Park is part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Must-See Spots:
Red Rock Canyon – A landscape that looks more like Arizona than Alberta!
Buffalo Paddock – Spot wild bison grazing in the open plains.
Cameron Lake – A peaceful, glacier-fed lake perfect for canoeing.
If you’re looking for breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife, this park is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.
4. Pacific Rim National Park (British Columbia)
Where Rainforest Meets the Ocean – Located on Vancouver Island, this park offers some of Canada’s most stunning coastal scenery.
Top Attractions:
Long Beach – A surfer’s paradise with massive waves and sandy shores.
Broken Group Islands – Perfect for kayaking through secluded isles.
West Coast Trail – A legendary 75-km (47-mile) backcountry hiking route.
From storm-watching and whale spotting to hiking through temperate rainforests, Pacific Rim is a nature lover’s dream.
3. Nahanni National Park (Northwest Territories)
A True Wilderness Escape – Only accessible by floatplane, this remote park is an adventurer’s dream.
Highlights:
Virginia Falls – Twice the height of Niagara Falls!
Hot Springs & Canyons – Explore unique geothermal landscapes.
South Nahanni River – One of the world’s top whitewater rafting routes.
If you crave untouched wilderness, this park is an absolute must.
2. Jasper National Park (Alberta)
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Jasper is Canada’s largest national park and a playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Why Visit?
Athabasca Falls – A stunning waterfall surrounded by towering peaks.
Maligne Canyon & Lake – Breathtaking landscapes, perfect for hiking.
Jasper SkyTram – Panoramic views from the top of Whistlers Mountain.
From wildlife safaris to backcountry adventures, Jasper offers it all.
1. Banff National Park (Alberta)
The Crown Jewel of Canada’s National Parks – Banff is one of the most famous and breathtaking parks in the world.
Top Attractions:
Lake Louise & Moraine Lake – Turquoise waters surrounded by snowy peaks.
Banff Gondola – Unparalleled views from the top of Sulphur Mountain.
Cave and Basin National Historic Site – The birthplace of Canada’s national park system.
From skiing in winter to hiking in summer, Banff is a year-round paradise.
Plan Your Canadian Adventure
Whether you’re looking for rugged wilderness, stunning coastlines, or breathtaking mountain views, Canada’s national parks offer unforgettable experiences. Which park is at the top of your bucket list? Let us know in the comments!
