Explore 8 Must-Visit Canadian National Parks

Unquestionably one of the most beautiful countries in the entire globe is Canada, which is part of North America. Out of all the amazing eye catchy tourist-friendly places, the Canadian national parks are the best to visit for a rejuvenating experience.

National Parks in Canada

Canada is blessed with several incredible national parks and reserves. The national parks are natural reserves encompassing picturesque & scenic beauty and preserved flora & fauna.

They are amongst the most beautiful go-to destinations in the world. They are rich in History and culture and are perfect for nature lovers.

The National Parks in Canada are formed under the Canada national parks act and their governing body is Parks Canada. 

8 Remarkable Canadian National Parks to Visit

1. Banff National Park

One of the first national parks was this Park. It is in the Alberta’s Canadian Rocky Mountains. 

Established under the Rocky Mountains Park Act in 1885, it was initially named Rocky Mountains Park.

This place boasts itself as a UNESCO World Heritage site full of mesmerizing scenic gazes and wildlife spotting. Interesting adventure sports are also an attraction here.

Highlights 

1.1 Breath-Taking Sites

Banff national park encompasses numerous beautiful sites. You can visit these sites and enjoy them.

From amazing mountains to mesmerizing lake views, Banff offers an array of splendid natural scenic beauty.

1.2 Dreamlike Lakes

Banff national park has majestic lakes and great sights. These lakes are perfect for sightseeing and enjoying adventure sports.

The divine turquoise Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Lake Minnewanka, are some of the most beautiful lakes in Banff national park.

Surrounded by mountains, these lakes offer a soothing site.

The picturesque lake sites also offer a resort experience where you can stay and witness the beauty of these surreally beautiful glacial lakes.

1.3 The Historical Location

The national historic site of the cave and basin is one of the first national park’s most well-known and worthwhile destinations.

It is the birthplace of the Banff national park, therefore, is rich in culture and history. The Cave and Basin National Historic Site is home to beautiful hiking panoramas and settings.

This place is definitely a must-visit in the oldest Canadian national park. Another cultural destination worth visiting is the national historic site of the Banff Park Museum.

The museum was made in 1903 and is the oldest plethora of natural flora and fauna in Canada.

1.4 Abundance of Adventure Sports

The oldest of the national parks in Canada not only has great sights but also offers a platter of thrilling adventure sports experiences.

Canoeing, river rafting, hiking trails, and cycling over the passes are some of the exhilarating sports adventures.

A great golf course experience can be enjoyed. The Fairmont Springs golf course is incredible and special among all.

1.5 Flora and Fauna

Surrounded by the Canadian Rockies, Banff national park brings the joy of wildlife spotting and various specimens of plant species.

This national park reserve in the Canadian Rockies has over 300 species of birds and 800 species of plants. porcupine, red squirrels, wild bison, also wildflowers can be seen in the park.

2. Waterton Lakes National Park

Named after the gorgeous Waterton Lake, this is the fourth Canadian national park. It was established in 1895, and in 1979 it received the designation of biosphere reserve.

Situated in Alberta, Waterton lakes national park reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1995).

It is a portion of the Waterton- Glacier International Peace Park, which also includes the Glacier National Park.

It is a part of not just Glacier national park, but also Waterton Glacier International Peace Park

A short film was made on Waterton lakes national park in 2011 under the National Parks project.

This incredible Canadian national park serves breathtaking views on the periphery of the mesmerizing lake Waterton.

Highlights 

2.1 Enjoy the Picturesque Lake Waterton!

The majestic Waterton Lake is a sight to behold. The divinity of the view of and around the lake will assuredly mesmerize you.

It’s impossible to not visit Waterton Lake when in the national park. It is a great photography site.

2.2 The Cameron Falls

The Angelic Cameron Falls is one of the best sites to visit in the Waterton lakes national park. Its surreal pink waters are arguably the most divine thing ever.

You can enjoy the charming sight of the beautiful waters through a trail.

2.3 Great Hiking Trails!

Waterton offers an amazing hiking experience on various trails. The Bear’s Hump Trail and the Red Rock Canyon Trail are the most popular trails to visit.

The bear’s hump gives a great experience. It is a fun experience, however, can be challenging for some.

The red rock canyon also offers an incredible hiking experience. The topmost view of the trail is worth the hiking adventure.

2.4 Leisure Activities

Cruises, canoeing, hiking, horseback riding, and many more adventures are available at the Canadian national park.

You can come with your loved ones and enjoy a gala time. You can even enjoy a good game of golf at the golf course.

2.5 Luxurious Accommodation

There are many magnificent accommodations at Waterton lakes national park. The Prince Wales Hotel is one of the most visited ones.

It has great food and offers the experience of the divine sites of the national park.

2.6 Flora and Fauna

Many different types of animals and plants can be found at the Waterton Lakes National Park.

 It has many wildlife and bird spotting.

Moose, Columbian ground squirrels, migratory birds, ducks, geese, and many more can be spotted.

The national park is renowned for its wildflowers and plant life as well. The tall Beargrass flowers are a known variety. All in all, it is a stunning place to visit.

All in all, it can be concluded that Waterton lakes national park is amongst the best national parks, do visit this fresh slice of adventure and beauty.

3. Wood Buffalo National Park

The largest in Canada and the 2nd largest in the world, Wood Buffalo National Park was established in 1922. This was to preserve the last remaining herds of bison.

Wood Buffalo National Park was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1983 and is well-known for its karst landscapes and sinkholes.

It also takes pride in being the world’s largest dark sky preserve. 

Highlights 

3.1 Visit the Northern Life Museum

If you are fond of cultural and historical artifacts, then the northern life museum is a perfect stop for you. It is located in Fort Smith.

Various agricultural equipment collections and cultural specimens are there in this museum.

3.2 The Dazzling Salt Plains

In this national park reserve, you can have an amazing time gazing at the unique and picturesque salt plains at Wood buffalo national park.

These salt plains are one of a kind. They are said to be the remains of an ancient inland sea.

Many wildlife creatures can also be spotted while enjoying the amazing scenery of the salt plains.

3.3 The Spectacular Pine Lake

Pine Lake is one of the national park’s most alluring and scenic beauties. The Pine lake in wood buffalo national park reserve is formed by sinkholes and has beautiful bluish water.

Along with the great view, there are many leisure options like firewood, camping sites, and many more.

3.4 Adventure Sports

Many fulfilling sports activities can be done in Wood buffalo national park. Hiking trails, canoeing, mountain biking, and many other exhilarating activities can be performed.

Camping is also available. You can enjoy all these activities.

3.5 Wildlife Spotting

Wood Buffalo is very well known for its wildlife. The wild bison is one of the prime spotting of the place.

Some of the creatures you can observe here include black bears, moose, wolves, Rex foxes, and hawks.

The best time to visit the National Park is generally from May to August however you can visit at any time of the year.

4. Jasper National Park

Jasper national park is yet another great national park in Canada. It is an ensemble of splendid glaciers, wildlife, waterfalls, and mountains.

This Park was given UNESCO world historic site designation in 1984.

Highlights 

4.1 Gaze the Athabasca Falls

The beautiful Athabasca Falls is a sight to behold and enjoy the beauty of it. This waterfall is on the upper side of the  Athabasca River.

It is not a very high waterfall, however, is known for its force. Through various trails, you can enjoy the beauty and click wonderful pictures.

4.2 The Spectacular Columbia Icefield Tour

The jasper national park gives you the joy of visiting the Columbia icefield. It comprises the Athabasca, Columbia, Stufield, Dome, and Castle Guard glaciers.

It is one of the most scenic locations and you can enjoy the beauty of it along with many adventures.

4.3 Jasper Discovery Trail

The beautiful jasper discovery trail provides a round of the national park. You can have a view of the park through the trail. This place gives you some of the best site views and hiking adventures.

4.4 Pyramid Lake

Nestled over the Pyramid Mountains, Pyramid Lake is a spectacular sight in one of the best national parks.

The calm waters and fresh sight are all heart! you can enjoy the sight, take pictures and enjoy many other adventures over here.

4.5 Flora and Fauna

Jasper has many unique plant species and is also home to some rare faunal species. Brown-eyed Susans, arnica, and crocus are some plant species found.

Grizzly bears, mountain goats, moose, and elk are some animal species. Rounding off, it can be said that Jasper is indeed one of the best national parks and should be on the visit list.

5. Cape Breton Highlands National Park

It is the place where the towering mountains hug the sea. The National Park of the Cape Breton Highlands is located on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. For the tourists, it will be a magical experience.

The Cape Breton Highlands National Park is an ensemble of valleys, mountains, waterfalls, and the iconic Cape Breton Highlands. It was established in 1936 with Parks Canada as the governing body.

Highlights

5.1 World-Famous Cobot Trail

The cobot trail is a stunning scenic getaway circling the Cape Breton Highlands in Nova Scotia. It offers scenic gazes along the Island of the National Park.

Through the trail, you can enjoy some of the spectacular views of the park. The park visitors will definitely have an exhilarating experience.

5.2 National Historic Sites

The Fortress of Louisburg and Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site are the most popular and visited sites of the national park.

In the Fortress of Louisburg, you can feel how people in earlier times used to live.

At Alexander Graham Bell National Historic Site, you can have a look at some of the belongings of the great Alexander Graham Bell.

5.3 Highlands Links Golf Course

The highlands links golf course is a well-known one among the other attractions at the national park.

You can enjoy and have a great time here. The scenic gaze allows a great golf experience.

5.4 Ingonish Whale-Watching Tour

The whale-watching tour is one of the most fascinating experiences in Cape Breton.

Minke whales, humpback whales, fin whales, and common and white-sided dolphins are some of the best spottings via the tour.

Come and visit this beautiful ensemble.

6. Gros Morne National Park

Named after Newfoundland’s second-highest mountain peak, Gros Morne National Park is one of the iconic national parks in Canada.

It was founded in 1973, but the status of a national park was given in 2005.

Boating off the specimen of plate tectonics and continental drift, Gros Morne national park was bestowed the UNESCO world heritage site in 1987. 

A short film was also made on it under the National parks act in 2011.

Highlights 

6.1 Enjoy the Gros Morne Mountain Trail

The stunning Gros Morne Mountain trail offers you the most breathtaking views and a spectacular experience. You can have a bird’s eye view of the scenic beauty of the second-highest peak of Newfoundland.

The trail is a must-visit when in Gros Morne national park.

6.2 Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse

The Lobster Cove head lighthouse offers you an insight into the ancient heritage of the great Gros Morne Mountain.

It provides a glimpse in the form of audio, recordings, and historical clicks. It is dedicated to the ancient people.

6.3 Gros Morne Wildlife Museum

The Gros Morne Museum brings some of the rare real-life wildlife creatures to our view. Caribou, Lynx, Coyote, Fox, Black Bears, and Polar Bear are some of the species found in Newfoundland’s museum.

6.4 The Tablelands

The tablelands provide experience and knowledge about the crust of the earth and the process that happened over the years.

The tectonic plates and continental drift. It is a bizarre yet very beautiful landscape.

6.5 Western Brook Pond Ford

Western brook pond fjord is among the spectacular vistas that mesmerize park visitors. It offers a great scenic view of the west coast of Newfoundland and an exhilarating experience.

Trekking and boat tours are the touring options. Come and enjoy this heaven-like place.

7. Yoho National Park

Yoho National Park is among the most stunning National Parks. Back in 1886, it was considered the Glacier National Park.

Yoho national park is a UNESCO world heritage site sharing its boundaries with the great Banff national park and Kootenay national park. The park features awesome scenic gazes and fauna.

Highlights 

7.1 Kicking Horse Pass National Historic Site

Canada has designated the Kicking Horse Pass as a National Historic monument. The spiral tunnels are a great specimen of Canadian engineering.

While crossing the pass, you will have a thrilling view of the mountain corridor in the Yoho national park.

7.2 Emerald Lake

Very obvious with the name, this lake is famous for its emerald-like waters and divinity around. You will have an awesome experience witnessing the beauty of the emerald lake.

Come over here, chill at emerald lake lodge, and enjoy the gasping beauty of the lake.

7.3 Burgess Shale Fossils

Yoho national park exhibits the rarest fossil reserves in the world. The Burgess Shale fossils are the earliest attestation of intricate life.

The fossils are uniquely saved in Burgess Shale-type of preservation. It is a must-visit place in the park.

7.4 Wapta Falls

It is the waterfall belonging to the kicking horse river in British Columbia. It is a spectacular sight to behold.

Along with the amazing breathtaking view of the falls, you can enjoy many activities here like hiking, snowshoeing, and many more.

7.5 Flora and Fauna

This beautiful Canadian national park in British Columbia exhibits great flora and fauna. Some of the species here are:

• Black bears,
• moose,
• the golden-mantled ground squirrel,
• rufous hummingbird,
• white rhododendron,
• dwarf birch, and
• alpine bearberry

8. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

A stunning national park that encompasses the long beach, the broken group islands, and the west coast route is called the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Which is situated on Vancouver Island in British Columbia.

Established in 1970, it is the oldest park reserve in the country. Great views, lush greenery, coastal trails, beaches, backcountry camping, and rainforest trail are all the attractions over here.

Highlights 

8.1 West Coast Trail

The national park features a great backpacking trail experience and is one of the most popular hiking trails. You must be an experienced hiker to complete the trek because it is difficult.

Even with the difficulties, it is an exciting experience.

8.2 Long Beach

If you are fond of sandy beaches and stunning sceneries, then long beach in the pacific rim national park reserve is the perfect destination for you.

Surf along this specimen of awe and amazement. an array of fun activities can be enjoyed over here.

8.3 Broken Group Islands

The Broken Group Islands in the Pacific rim national park reserve is a marvellous archipelago and an attractive escape from the daily crowd.

You can enjoy the awesome scenes while being in the absolute comfort of solitude. Paddling is the most popular activity over here.

8.4 Fauna

The reserve has a great variety of faunal species. Some of the animals seen are the black-tailed deer, black bear, cougar, wolf,  raccoon, marten, and mink.

Concluding Thoughts

Considering all the aspects, the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve is among the best national parks in Canada.

Apart from the above-mentioned Canadian national parks, there are many other amazing national parks in Canada. 

Ranging from the largest to the smallest national park, Canada has all the varieties to offer to its visitors. A great combination of history, culture, adventure, and wildlife may be found in Canada’s national parks.

They preserve the rarest of rare flora and flora and are a great boost for the tourism industry.