The 6 Most Stunning Places to Visit in Canada During Summer

Canada is a vast country with a variety of regions, each with its own stunning scenery, fascinating history and unique culture to discover. Whether you enjoy rugged mountainscapes, windswept seas or bustling cities, Canada is sure to have a destination that will delight you.

1. Haida Gwaii, BC

Haida Gwaii is an archipelago off the coast of British Columbia, with hundreds of tiny forested islands that can only be accessed by boat or seaplane. It is the ancestral home of the Haida First Nation and the location of the Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve.

A visit to Haida Gwaii is an excellent opportunity to learn about the culture and history of the Haida people. The Haida Heritage Centre in Skidegate includes carving facilities for local artists, a canoe exhibit, a performance space and the Haida Gwaii Museum. You can also visit SGang Gwaay Llnagaay, an abandoned Haida village that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its incredible collection of totem poles.

2. Alaska Highway, Yukon

If you’re looking for an incredibly scenic road trip, why not travel the Alaska Highway? The road begins in Dawson Creek, British Columbia, passes through Whitehorse in the Yukon and extends all the way to the Delta Junction in Alaska.

Along the way, stop off at Liard River Hot Springs National Park to relax in Canada’s second-largest hot spring! Note that the campground fills up early in the summer, so remember to make a reservation.

Once you reach Whitehorse, make a stop at the Yukon Beringia Interpretive Centre to learn about the area’s prehistoric past and the land bridge that once connected Asia to North America.

Last but certainly not least, you’ll be able to see Kluane National Park and Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is home to 17 of the 20 highest peaks in Canada. The region’s rugged mountain ranges, glaciers and icefields are truly a feast for the eyes.

3. Banff National Park, Alberta

Banff is home to Canada’s oldest National Park, which welcomes over 3 million visitors every year. The crowning jewel of the park is Lake Louise, a stretch of stunning emerald water surrounded by imposing mountains and fed by the Victoria Glacier. Try canoeing on the lake and marvel at the sheer natural beauty that surrounds you, or take a drive along the Icefields Parkway to discover ancient glaciers, cascading waterfalls and pristine lakes.

4. Georgian Bay, Ontario

Georgian Bay is a popular summer destination for water enthusiasts of all kinds. The bay, which makes up the northwestern arm of Lake Huron, is characterized by crystal clear water and stark rock formations, which have proven treacherous for ships in the past. In fact, Tobermory is home to so many historic shipwrecks that it has become a popular scuba diving site!

Fortunately, the area now has very clear markers for boaters. If you enjoy boating, Georgian Bay is a great destination for a getaway! Just make sure you have your licence to boat in Ontario before getting out on the water.

5. Montreal, Quebec

If you’re more interested in an urban adventure, Montreal is an amazing summer destination! The season is packed with festivals for every interest, including the Jazz Fest, Just For Laughs, the Loto-Québec international fireworks competition, the Fantasia film festival and Montreal Pride.

You can also discover the historic architecture of Old Montreal and the stunning azure ceilings of the Notre-Dame Basilica. Don’t miss out on the city’s unique culinary delights, which include bagels, smoked meat and poutine!

6. Cape Breton, Nova Scotia

Cape Breton is considered one of Canada’s top travel destinations. It is home to the Cabot Trail, a 286-km-long loop that takes you through coastal towns, fishing villages and Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Enjoy stunning views of craggy vistas and sparkling surf, and don’t forget to sample the spectacular local seafood!

Plan your Canadian vacation today!

Regardless of where in Canada you go, there are stunning views and entertaining activities to discover. Choose one of the 6 amazing destinations listed above if you want to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Make the most of what the Great White North has to offer, and plan your vacation today!