Explore 10 Underrated Canadian National Parks
A treasure trove of hidden gems, Canada's natural landscape offers an incredible diversity from coastal regions to mountainous terrain, and from the tundra to frozen Arctic wilderness. While renowned national parks like Banff in the Rocky Mountains, Gwaii Haanas on the Pacific coast, and the renowned whitewater paddling paradise, Nahanni in the Northwest Territories, are popular attractions, there are other lesser-known, yet equally captivating national parks for the earnest explorer.
In honour of its 150th anniversary, Canada is treating visitors with free access to these breathtaking parks, subject to the condition of pre-ordering a special pass. Given the interest, securing camping spaces early is advisable. For a safe and enjoyable visit, it's also suggested to familiarize oneself with the guidelines on the interaction with wildlife such as bears and cougars. You may also find it beneficial to search for budget-friendly deals pertaining to accommodation online.
Bruce Peninsula, Ontario
Discover the captivating beauty of Canada by embarking on an exhilarating journey to a less-known national park in the vicinity of Lake Huron. With its splendid turquoise waters undulating against the towering cliffs and dense cedar groves, this park is definitely a visual treat. Located at a comfortable drive of four hours to the northwest from Toronto, it serves as the starting point of the scenic 550-mile Bruce Trail, which elegantly snakes its way southward through the park all the way to the Niagara region's famed vineyards.
For the explorers among you, shorter walks along the cliffside and the lake or even canoeing or kayaking across smaller lakes come highly recommended. A convenient rental service is offered by the Thorncrest Outfitters in Tobermory. For the adventurous souls wishing to test their strength and endurance, more unconventional options like boulder-climbing in remote spots or scrambling through lakeside caves are worth considering.
Yet another thrilling experience you wouldn't want to miss is boarding a ferry from Tobermory to the Fathom Five national marine park. Here, you can dive into the numerous underwater wrecks. Easy-to-see shallow ones lie close to the shore, perfect for snorkeling. For more daring ventures, deeper wrecks situated further away require boat rentals and scuba gear, which can be procured from the Divers Den in Tobermory or G&S Watersports.
Complementing this natural extravaganza is an array of accommodation options in Tobermory, the nearest town. Depending on your budget, you can select from B&Bs, hotels, inns, and campsites here >> http://www.ontariocahotel.com/en/near-downtown-ottawa-dr1704565/. A comfortable stay at the Blue Bay Motel is a good idea, priced at £74 per night.
Pro tip: Forgo the drive and instead utilize the ParkBus for your commute from Toronto to Bruce Peninsula park, with an adult return fare of £54.
Pacific Rim, British Columbia
Endless beaches, fog-shrouded rainforests and rugged trails alongside the ferocious open waters of the Pacific Ocean make up this 500 sq km coastal park on the southern edge of Vancouver Island, a five-hour drive from Victoria. Whale-watching – mostly greys but, at certain times of the year, humpbacks and killer whales as well – is a time-honoured pastime here, and can be done from the beach. Ambling along Long Beach, south of Tofino, exploring treasures in tidal pools can easily absorb days. But braving the breathtaking 45-mile West Coast Trail, following paths of ancient First Nation traders, will take training – it is not for beginners, and requires map and tide-table reading skills for some stretches. Reservations are vital as numbers are limited during the season. There are only three entrances and exits, but a two- or three-day hike can be started at the midpoint of Nitinat, avoiding the most difficult parts. The trail begins at Pachena Bay and ends at Gordon River six gruelling days later. Limited camping is available in the park, but the towns of Tofino and Ucluelet, also offer B&Bs, cabins, hotels, resorts and dining at a range of prices. Try Jamie’s Rainforest Inn in Tofino (from £80, room only).
Tip: The best chance of seeing whales is in May, June, September and October.
Waterton Lakes, Alberta
Canada's illustrious park, where the formidable Rocky mountains graze the expansive prairies, offers a diverse ecosystem for a variety of flora and fauna. Visitors encounter a breathtaking tapestry of aspen forests peppered with meadows blanketed with wildflowers. This splendid wilderness serves as a haven for myriad species including grizzlies, black bears, cougars, wolves, and coyotes. To ensure your safety amid these majestic creatures, limitations are placed to the 191 miles of hiking trails in the park. These trails offer a variety of experiences, from easy short strolls to sweat-inducing steep treks that last for multiple days. It is advisable to emit sounds whilst trekking to ward off any potentially lurking bears. Noticeably, the park is situated within the 'Crown of the Continent' ecosystem, an exceptionally diverse habitat that features the sources of rivers which traverse North America, gliding towards the vast Pacific and Atlantic and also to the northern bounds of Hudson’s Bay.
An untouched Canadian jewel, Waterton Lakes, serves as a serene escape from the hustle of traditional tourist havens like Banff and Jasper. A quick three-hour drive to the south from Calgary transports one into the tranquil realm of Waterton Lakes. The park is equipped with three car-accessible campsites, among which one can be found in the Waterton Lakes Townsite. For the adventurous souls, there are nine hike-accessible campsites in the backcountry, including a mesmerising one at Goat Lake. To ensure comfort without compromising on the experience, one can consider staying at the Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort, where prices start at £80 for room-only bookings.
Useful Info: At the park's northern end, one can spot a winsome sight of a small bison herd grazing on the grasslands - this spectacle can be enjoyed for free from the seclusion of your car on the Bison Paddock Loop Road. Bear in mind, though, safety first - it's best to stay in the car!
Grasslands, Saskatchewan
Once upon a time, this region was sculpted flat and devoid of forestry by receding glaciers. Its vastness is so immense, so endless, that local legends whisper of the ability to see a runaway dog, even after three days of freedom. The landscape is coloured by a tapestry of ripe golden grasses, rhythmically swaying in the breeze, while bison wander and white-rumped pronghorn antelope dash by, their hooves echoing through the plains. Adding to the scene, black-tailed prairie dogs periodically emerge from the earth, their curious heads scanning the open space.
Located in the bosom of Saskatchewan's southwestern quadrant, the park is accessible with a 4-hour drive from Regina, the provincial capital. Alternatively, one might choose to embark on a 7-hour journey from Calgary to the charming town of Val Marie, which serves as the park’s western gateway. For those craving a true test of their hiking skills, the Valley of the 1,000 Devils presents a challenging terrain adorned with ancient hoodoo rock formations and the buried mysteries of dinosaur fossils.
Camping regulations are generous, with freedom to select any desired location, though a visit to the Rock Creek campground's visitor centre is suggested for safety guidelines. Abundant and organized spaces are available, both for tents and RVs, and those seeking a touch of authenticity can rent out tipis. The Frenchman Valley campground offers tent-cabins, capable of accommodating up to six individuals at £55 per night, while camping pitches are available at £10 (reservations are required).
Handy Tips: A standout feature of Grasslands is its vast dark sky preserve. It is one of Canada’s largest and darkest, ideal for celestial enthusiasts. Each year, special events are organized for visitors to participate in fossil excavation.
Point Pelee, Ontario
For bird enthusiasts, Point Pelee, a quaint park situated a short journey, four hours to be precise, southwest of Toronto, is your paradise undiscovered. More than just a simplistic marshland protruding into Lake Erie, it serves as a global sanctuary for birdwatchers on an international scale. The area buzzes with melodious splendour as migratory birds carry out their harmonious exodus northward during the mid-May period, a phenomenon that has blossomed into an auspicious festival for bird-loving enthusiasts. Time it well to witness rare species such as the lark sparrow, ivory gull, warblers from different part of the western hemisphere, and the sharp-tailed sandpiper. Start your journey by exploring accommodation options to suit every budget at tourismleamington.com. A comfortable stay at the Days Inn will cost around £80 B&B. Alternatively, for those willing to extend their journey, the Niagra-on-the-Lake wine region Bestows indulgent offerings, with accommodations including the charming Colonel Butler Inn from £110 B&B.
A Pro Tip: Engaging nature at its best, canoe through the marshes as a family of four, or even with a group of ten. Guided exploration through the bulrushes adds an extra dimension to your adventure and for a family of four, it will only cost you around £12 (refer to the national parks website for more details).
La Mauricie, Quebec
The picture-perfect Laurentian forests, populated with an array of evergreens and hardwoods alongside an impressive collection of over 150 pristine lakes, sculpture this charismatic Canadian park. Regardless of the season, its enchanting beauty offers a myriad of engaging activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing throughout the snowy winters, or diving into recreation activities like canoeing, hiking, swimming, fishing and mountain biking as temperatures rise and the snow melts away. This wonder of nature is just a short two-hour journey from Montreal or Quebec City. For those seeking an overnight immersion, there are three campsites nestled within the park, providing well over 500 pitches for tents, tent- trailers and RVs at a steal price of under £18 per night. For a more comfortable camping experience, all-year round tent- cabins are available, comfortably sleeping five and priced at £70 per night. A little known fact is that this park is also an extraordinary place to enjoy the grandeur of autumn colours making it an absolute must-see.
Prince Edward Island
Experience the invigorating touch of the salty sea breeze, gaze at the extraordinary sculpted red sand dunes, as you unwind on any of the seven serene beaches located in this tucked-away national park straddling the northern perimeter of Prince Edward Island. Particularly famous among these sandy havens are Brackley and Stanhope beaches. A mere half-hour drive will transport you from the park to Charlottetown, the province's historically rich capital where the seeds of Canada's Confederation were sown 150 years earlier. Enjoy a laid-back family outing that includes gentle strolls along the boardwalks, easygoing hiking trails, and the delight of spotting blue herons gracefully gliding over the ocean.
Visit the two delightful campsites within the park's precincts, Stanhope and Cavendish, with pitches starting at £12 per night. Staying at the opulent Dalvay-by-the-Sea hotel is akin to stepping back in time. This grand edifice was originally a summer residence for an oil magnate and now offers 25 resplendent rooms and cottages adorned with antique furnishings, with prices starting at £120 for room-only bookings.
Pro tip: Plan a visit to the Green Gables Heritage Place located towards the park's western end. This spot served as the muse for famous author Lucy Maud Montgomery when penning her series of classic novels.
Cape Breton Highlands, Nova Scotia
Forested highland hills meet steep cliffs rising from the ocean in this island gem. Famous Cape Breton hospitality, sensational ocean landscapes, and access to the fabled Cabot Trail make it tough to find a more congenial spot in Canada. A five-hour drive from Halifax, this is the home of the Acadians, descendants of French settlers. Visitors can learn how to boil a lobster (£26pp) at La Bloc in Chéticamp, then drive down the iconic switchback road along the coast where there are six campsites next to the road and one in the backcountry. A tent-cabin for six costs £60 a night. Some campsites in this park come already equipped with tents; all you need is a sleeping bag, a reservation and £40 a night (up to six people).
Tips: Hook a mackerel and fry it for dinner just off the Cabot Trail, and learn to make Acadian potato pancakes for $22pp while savouring the cultural lore of Cape Breton. For dates and details, see cbisland.com. Or be a lumberjack for the day with world champion Darren Hudson, who runs Wild Axe camps teaching skills like logrolling, tree climbing and axe throwing (adults $90, youths $25-$50).
Gros Morne, Newfoundland
Canada's geological marvels come alive via its lesser-known national parks, among them a UNESCO World Heritage site. This site is unique for offering unparelled glimpses of the earth's mantle and deep ocean crust on the surface. Relish the adventure of a guided day trek, leading you up the Western Brook Pond gorge. Here, the plateau's ponds nurture cascading waterfalls that ultimately replenish the lake. This experience, which comes at a reasonable cost starting from £35 per adult, can be enjoyed with Bontours.
You'll find yourself lost in awe from the summit as you drink in the sight of a verdant valley, cocooned by majestic cliffs. This sublime site is conveniently seven hours by road from St John's, the capital, or even closer, a mere thirty-minute drive from Deer Lake Airport. You'll marvel how this singular world-class site simultaneously embraces moose and caribou, miniature trees, wetland areas, glacial lakes, tundras and heaths. Did you know Canada's national parks cover a staggering 328,198 sq km? That's more than the entire UK!
With more than 200 traditional camping locations, each offering electricity and either four minimalist or equipped sites complete with wooden tent bases, bear-resistant food storage, and simple outdoor toilets. You can enjoy a distinctive tent-cabin experience for five at £70 nightly where firewood is part of the package. For those seeking more comfort without losing the essence of nature, accommodation alternatives such as cabins, hotels, or B&Bs are also available. For example, Bottom Brook Cottages offer a delightful two-bedroom cottage for £76 per night.
Pro tip: Enhance your stay by taking a guided exploration to the iconic Lobster Cove Head lighthouse. Discover how its constant light guided mariners home on murky nights. Conclude your day with an intimate fire circle under the captivating twilight, hence experiencing the most breath-taking sunset on the island.
Auyuittuq, Nunavut
In the expanse of Canada's Arctic Circle, towering, ice-cloaked mountains form a skyline in stark contrast to the unending plains stretching beneath them. Ice-cold rivers, dangerously swift, carve paths through the landscape, while polar bears prowl the cliff tops - always at a careful distance. A trip to Baffin Island's park provides an exhilarating challenge for those with a spirit for adventure; accessible by a flight to Iqaluit, further connected to either Pangnirtung or Qikiqtarjuaq community, both just moments away from the park. Visitors need to complete safety training and registration with the park's team, after which they get escorted to the park's edge with a guide through varied means - boat, skidoo, dog sled, or skiing, based on the weather conditions. Seasoned climbers have the opportunity to experience the thrill of scaling 'Mount Thor,' a formidable vertical stretch of 1,675 meters. For those less experienced, professional guides and outfitters are available for hire.
While traditional camping spaces are non-existent, backcountry camping is an option - but do keep a watchful eye for polar bears! Accommodations can be found at the comfortable Auyuittuq Lodge in Pangnirtung at a rate of £147 per person for a full board service.
Additional Info: The quaint hamlet of Pangnirtung is renowned for the Uqqurmiut Centre for Arts & Crafts, a vibrant hub celebrating Inuit artistry, featuring a print shop and a tapestry studio.