Canada has some of the most beautiful roadways in the world. Grab your car keys, rent an RV or hop on a motorcycle to explore the beautiful scenery of the Canadian wilderness, the cities, and the coastline. Here are the top ten scenic road trips in Canada.
1. Pelee Island, Ontario
A road trip that will have you mesmerized is a visit to Pelee Island, Ontario. Located on the southern tip of Canada, it’s the perfect place for nature lovers to congregate and enjoy the beauty of the wildlife of the area. As the seasons change, the wildlife fluctuates and the island plays host to different types of birds and butterflies.
2. Chatham-Kent Corridor
You may have never heard of the Chatham-Kent Corridor, but you’ll soon fall in love with this scenic region. Comprised of more than twenty-three small towns along the coastlines of the Thames River, Lake St. Clair, and Lake Erie, it’s quickly becoming one of the most popular places for cruisers and motorcyclists alike to visit. Highway 3 extends all the way down the multiple lake shorelines, weaving through the many historical sights in the area, such as the route for the famous historical Underground Railroad and the pathways used by British loyalists during the War of 1812.
3. Edmonton
Edmonton is probably one of the better-known scenic spots in Canada, but that doesn’t mean it’s overrated. Far from it! Edmonton offers some of the most stunning natural beauty in the country. There are two UNESCO World Heritage Parks to visit in Edmonton, as well as Jasper National Park and the National Park from Calgary. You can glimpse special sneak peeks of glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, mountains, forests, wildlife and so much more. Just a few hours away, you can visit the urban landscaping of the city, reached after a drive across a wide, open highway through golden prairie lands.
4. Sea to Sky Highway (Squamish to Whistler, British Columbia)
Take a drive from Vancouver to Whistler and experience the beauty of the mountainous coastline of British Columbia. Make sure you stop by the many rest stops and turnouts along the road. Many of them hide true tourist treasures, such as the Tantalus Range Lookout, Shannon Falls, and Watershed Grill.
5. Kelowna, British Columbia
Looking for something outside the norm? Kelowna is known for its many wineries and upscale cuisines. A road trip through this flavorful countryside might be just what you’ve been waiting for. Visit Arlo’s Honey Farm, the Tantalus Vineyards, the famed Wild Apple Restaurant, the Okanagan Lavender and Herb Farm, and so much more!
6. Stratford, Ontario
Entertainment is the name of the game in Stratford, Ontario. If you’re looking for a road trip with a little pizazz, check out the Stratford Summer Music Festival and the local theatre festival held in the city every year.
7. Eastern Townships, Quebec
Seclusion, nature, and quaint French-style bed and breakfasts await travelers of the Eastern Townships route. Gourmet restaurants, isolated wineries, even a Benedictine monastery can be found in this peaceful community.
8. Calgary to Lake Louise
It will take you a few hours to travel the highway that winds from Calgary to Lake Louise, but there are plenty of places to stop and rest. The stunning views of the Columbia Ice fields and Sulphur Mountain make it all worth it.
9. The Cabot Trail
If golfing, hiking, kayaking, swimming, scuba diving, camping, or horseback riding sound appealing to you, check out the Cabot Trail. It winds along Cape Breton Island, giving visitors access to some of Canada’s most diverse coastline.
10. Vancouver to Tofino
This is where you’ll find the famous Pacific Rim Highway. Everything from cold mountains to temperate rainforests can be found here. A surfing hotspot along the highway is Ucluelet, and don’t forget to visit the Coombs Country Market or Cathedral Grove.
