Canadian National Parks: A World Tour

1. Banff National Park, Alberta

Renowned for its breathtaking mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife, Banff National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that should be at the top of any nature lover's list. Hike along pristine trails, paddle through emerald-green waters, and marvel at the majestic peaks that surround this iconic park.

2. Jasper National Park, Alberta

Adjacent to Banff, Jasper National Park offers an equally stunning wilderness experience. Explore vast ice fields, serpentine rivers, and towering waterfalls. Keep an eye out for grizzly bears, moose, elk, and bighorn sheep that roam the park's diverse ecosystems.

3. Yoho National Park, British Columbia

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Yoho National Park is home to some of the country's most dramatic landscapes. From the stunning turquoise waters of Lake O'Hara to the towering granite peaks of the President Range, Yoho offers a breathtaking spectacle that will leave you in awe.

4. Wood Buffalo National Park, Alberta and Northwest Territories

As Canada's largest national park, Wood Buffalo National Park encompasses a vast wilderness area that is teeming with wildlife. Explore boreal forests, wetlands, and the mighty Peace-Athabasca Delta, home to the largest free-roaming bison herd in North America.

5. Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon

Spanning over 22,000 square kilometers, Kluane National Park and Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts the highest peak in Canada, Mount Logan. Explore glaciers, ice fields, and pristine alpine lakes against a backdrop of towering mountains.

6. Nahanni National Park Reserve, Northwest Territories

Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nahanni National Park Reserve is a wilderness paradise that features cascading waterfalls, deep canyons, and pristine rivers. Hike through ancient forests, paddle down the South Nahanni River, and witness the breathtaking Virginia Falls.

7. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, British Columbia

Escape to the rugged coastlines of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Explore sandy beaches, ancient rainforests, and witness the majestic migrations of whales and seabirds. Hike along the West Coast Trail, one of Canada's most iconic backpacking trails, for an unforgettable coastal adventure.

8. Fundy National Park, New Brunswick

Discover the highest tides in the world at Fundy National Park. Hike along the dramatic cliffs of the Bay of Fundy, explore sea caves, and witness the reversing falls of the Salmon River. Fundy offers a unique opportunity to witness the power and beauty of the natural world.

9. Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gros Morne National Park is renowned for its dramatic fjord landscapes, towering mountains, and pristine lakes. Hike along the Long Range Mountains, marvel at the Tablelands, and kayak through the serene waters of Western Brook Pond.

10. Point Pelee National Park, Ontario

Escape to the southernmost point of mainland Canada at Point Pelee National Park. Explore Carolinian forests, marshes, and sandy beaches. Point Pelee is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 350 species recorded within the park.

11. Riding Mountain National Park, Manitoba

Nestled in the heart of the prairies, Riding Mountain National Park offers a diverse landscape of forests, grasslands, and lakes. Hike through ancient forests, spot bison and elk roaming the grasslands, and paddle through tranquil lakes. Riding Mountain is a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts seeking a serene wilderness experience.

12. Pukaskwa National Park, Ontario

Escape to the remote wilderness of Pukaskwa National Park along the rugged shores of Lake Superior. Explore boreal forests, hike along cascading rivers, and witness the stunning coastal landscapes of this pristine park. Pukaskwa offers a true backcountry experience for adventurous hikers and canoeists.