Canada stretches from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean. Mountains, rivers, and rocky coastlines are just a few of the sights that travelers see while on a Canadian road trip.
Here are ten of the greatest Canadian road trips.
Vancouver to Tofino, British Columbia
Vancouver is one of Canada’s urban centers, and visitors can enjoy the many parks, sights, mountains, and beaches in the city. For a great road trip, drivers can head to the Horseshoe Bay ferry terminal. The ferry makes its way between Vancouver and Vancouver Island.
Nanaimo is one of the biggest cities on the island and is the destination for travelers who are on their way to Tofino. The Pacific Rim Highway is a beautiful drive that offers views of ancient rainforests sprawling amidst a rocky coast. The highway goes from Nanaimo to Tofino and takes offers stunning scenery. Along the way, there are several sights, and the town of Coombs is famous for its house that has a roof inhabited by goats. Cathedral Grove is an old-growth stand of Douglas fir trees that boasts members more than 800-years-old.
Calgary to Lake Louise
For the best trip, drivers should be sure to have at least four days. The first day begins with an in-depth tour of Calgary. The city’s famous rodeo is held each summer. On the second day, the Columbia Ice field makes a perfect excursion. Lake Louise is just a short distance from the glacier and is one of the most beautiful lakes in Canada. Crystal blue water fills the lake, and sunsets are an ideal time to enjoy the beauty of Lake Louise.
- The Cabot Trail
For a modern road trip that has six great golf courses, the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton, Nova Scotia is ideal. The area is known for its seaside cliffs and spectacular beaches. Swimming, biking, diving, and kayaking are a few of the activities that are available along the Cabot Trail.
Eastern Townships
In Quebec, there are plenty of small towns that are known as the Eastern Townships. Manoir Hovey is one luxury getaway that has jacuzzis, water views, and gourmet meals. Along the drive, plenty of local farmers have stands with fresh produce. A Benedictine monastery is another sight along the drive, and the monks are famous for their Gregorian chants, fresh cheese, and apple cider.
- Stratford, Ontario
Just a short drive from Toronto is the lovely city of Stratford. The historic town of Stratford is ideal for a day trip or a weekend excursion. The small town includes historic inns, a famous theatre festival, and a scenic river. The river has parks that offer plenty of picnic tables and ample room to walk. During the summer, there is an annual music festival, and plenty of free concerts are held during the celebration. Shoppers are sure to enjoy the boutique stores that sell glassware, china, and other imported treasures.
Sea to Sky Highway
The Vancouver area is unsurpassed for its natural beauty, and driving from Vancouver to Squamish is a great way to enjoy rocky coastlines and snow-capped mountains. Whistler is a two-hour drive from Vancouver, and drivers can take in a commanding view of the Coast Mountains and Howe Sound. The drive has often been recognized for its beauty because it winds among oceans, mountains, and ancient rainforests.
Food Tour in Kelowna, British Columbia
Kelowna is the heart of the sunny Okanagan Valley and is known for its beautiful lake, lovely wineries, and artisan goat cheese. The trip from Kelowna into the surrounding area can be any length, and plenty of four to six-hour drives are readily available. Along the way, tourists can visit artisan farmers. Plenty of vineyards are found in the area, and there is one unique farm that sells lavender jelly and bath oils. Goats are also on hand to produce more than 20 styles of feta cheese.
- Pelee Island, Ontario
On the southern tip of Ontario, there is plenty of room to enjoy the natural beauty. Pelee Island is an oasis that lies in Lake Erie. The island is a perfect destination for a day trip and works for a weekend retreat as well. A ferry services the island during the fall, summer, and spring but closes during the winter. Visitors can easily catch the ferry at Kingsville or Leamington and enjoy the natural beauty of an unspoiled island.
- Edmonton to Jasper, Banff, and Calgary
Edmonton is one of the leading cities in the oil-rich province of Alberta. The city is a short drive from a number of national parks. Jasper National Park is a UNESCO world heritage site and is famous for its stunning rocky vistas and abundant wildlife. The Ice Field Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in Canada and winds among the Rocky Mountains. Along the way, drivers can enjoy glaciers, mountain lakes, wildlife, and waterfalls.
- Chatham-Kent Corridor, Ontario
This corridor is actually composed of 23 communities that are nestled along the banks of Lake Erie, the Thames River, and Lake St. Clair. Highway 3 has a motorcycle route that starts in the beach town of Port Denver. Thousands of motorcyclists make their way to the area, and there are huge rallies each Friday the 13th.
