Step into Canada’s forests, and you might feel like you’ve entered a fairytale. Imagine strolling beneath canopies so thick they feel like green cathedrals, making you feel small beneath their towering branches. You might see a bear — from a safe distance! — or hear leaves crunch under your feet as you explore the beautiful outdoors. The air is crisp and fresh, filling your lungs with every deep breath. If you listen closely, you might hear a loon calling in the distance or spot a fox quickly slipping between the trees.
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, searching for hidden lakes, or just soaking in the magic, one thing’s for sure — adventure is waiting. Ready to explore? Let’s go!
Great Bear Rainforest — British Columbia
Spirit Bear
Stretching along British Columbia’s central and northern coast, the Great Bear Rainforest is one of the largest temperate rainforests in the world. This forest serves as a refuge for ancient trees, some of which have stood for over a thousand years. You can walk among massive western red cedars and Sitka spruces, along with scenic fjords and rivers where wildlife thrives. From the water’s edge to the deepest parts of the forest, you’ll find grizzly bears, coastal wolves, and bald eagles searching for salmon.
One of the rarest creatures in the world, the Kermode or Spirit Bear, calls this forest home. This white-furred black bear can typically only be found in this region, and seeing one in the wild is a remarkable experience. Guided tours, especially those led by Indigenous groups, provide ethical ways to spot these bears while respecting the land and its wildlife. If you enjoy kayaking, paddling along the rainforest’s remote coastline is a fun and relaxing way to explore the area.
Cathedral Grove — MacMillan Provincial Park, British Columbia
Cathedral Grove
Located in MacMillan Provincial Park on Vancouver Island, Cathedral Grove gives you the chance to walk among some of Canada’s tallest and oldest trees. Douglas firs in this forest tower as high as 80 meters – some of them are over 800 years old! A well-maintained trail system allows you to explore the grove at an easy pace, making it accessible to visitors of all skill levels.
If you’re looking to take gorgeous pictures, you’ll appreciate the towering trunks and moss-covered branches that give the grove a nearly prehistoric feel. During your walk, keep an eye out for owls, woodpeckers, and other small mammals. Cathedral Grove offers an accessible way to experience an ancient forest without requiring a strenuous hike, making it an excellent stop for families, casual walkers, and anyone who appreciates nature.
Fundy National Park — New Brunswick
Fundy National Park
Fundy National Park, located along the Bay of Fundy in New Brunswick, is a mix of dense forests, coastal views, and cascading waterfalls. In autumn, the changing foliage fills the park with shades of red, orange, and yellow. The land slopes down toward the rugged coastline, where you can witness the powerful tides that make this region famous. The Bay of Fundy’s tides rise and fall up to 16 meters, dramatically altering the landscape every few hours.
Hiking through the park takes you past clear rivers, waterfalls, and rocky cliffs overlooking the bay. Trails like Dickson Falls and Laverty Falls lead to beautiful streams flowing through the forest. During low tide, you can walk along the exposed ocean floor, exploring tidal pools and rock formations usually hidden beneath the water. With numerous hiking trails, campsites, and opportunities for wildlife watching, Fundy National Park provides a well-rounded outdoor experience.
Algonquin Provincial Park — Ontario
Algonquin Provincial Park
Algonquin Provincial Park is one of Canada’s most well-known wilderness areas, covering over 7,600 square kilometers in Ontario. The park is best known for its thick maple and pine forests that create a beautiful display of colors every autumn. This region supports a wide variety of wildlife, including moose, black bears, beavers, and wolves. If you visit in the early morning, you may spot a moose wading in one of the park’s thousands of lakes. The park’s terrain consists of rolling hills, winding rivers, and vast forests that provide an ideal setting for hiking and paddling.
Canoeing is a popular way to explore Algonquin, as the park’s waterways allow you to travel deep into the wilderness without relying on roads or crowded trails. Canoe routes range from short day trips to multi-day journeys through interconnected lakes and rivers. If you prefer hiking, trails like the Lookout Trail offer panoramic views of the surrounding forest, especially in the fall. Wolves inhabit the park, and during special events in the summer, you can participate in evening wolf howls, where park staff lead groups to listen for responses from wild wolf packs.
Boreal Forest — Multiple Provinces
Boreal Forest
Stretching from Yukon to Newfoundland, Canada’s boreal forest is the country’s largest ecological region, covering millions of square kilometers. This forest consists of spruce, pine, and fir trees, along with thousands of lakes and wetlands that provide homes for many species. The boreal forest is one of the best places to see the Northern Lights, as its remote location often provides clear, dark skies. The forest boasts caribou, lynx, and more than 300 types of birds, making it a prime location for wildlife watching.
Visiting the boreal forest gives you the chance to explore nature that’s remained unchanged for centuries. Canoeing, fishing, and backcountry camping are some of the best ways to experience this vast region. Many lakes, rivers, and wetlands in the boreal forest are only accessible by paddle, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful outdoor escape.
Saguenay Fjord National Park — Quebec
Saguenay Fjord National Park
Saguenay Fjord National Park in Quebec combines dense forests with striking cliffs that drop into the Saguenay River. This park is known for its breathtaking views of the deep blue waters of the fjord. The forest is made up of a mix of maple and birch trees, which provide gorgeous foliage in the fall. Wildlife thrives in this forest, with black bears, moose, and bald eagles frequently spotted along the trails. Because the fjord connects to the St. Lawrence River, it’s also one of the best places in Canada to see beluga whales.
Hiking trails in the park lead to scenic lookout points where you can take in the dramatic views of the water below. If you enjoy water activities, kayaking along the fjord allows you to appreciate the towering cliffs from a different perspective. Guided tours are available to learn more about the region’s history and geology.
RELATED: Eco Escapes: Exploring America’s Top Destinations for Earth Day
The Crooked Bush — Saskatchewan
The Crooked Bush, Saskatchewan
The Crooked Bush is one of Canada’s strangest forests, located in Saskatchewan’s open prairie. Unlike ordinary aspen, the trees in Crooked Bush grow in twisted, contorted shapes, creating an otherworldly appearance. Scientists have studied these trees for years, but no one has determined exactly why these aspen grow this way. Some believe it could be due to a genetic mutation, while others think environmental factors might play a role.
A wooden boardwalk allows you to explore the grove without damaging the ecosystem. Many visitors come here specifically to take pictures of the eerie formations. The surrounding prairie provides a stark contrast to the bizarre shapes of the trees. If you enjoy unusual natural phenomena, this strange forest is worth a visit.
FAQs:
Q: When is a good time of year to visit these forests?
A: That depends. Summer offers warm weather and accessible trails, while fall provides stunning foliage. Winter brings snow-covered scenery, ideal for cross-country skiing in boreal regions. Spring is great for wildlife spotting and fewer crowds. Coastal forests like the Great Bear Rainforest are typically best visited in late summer or early fall for bear viewing.
Q: Do I need any permits to visit these forests?
A: Some protected areas, such as national and provincial parks, require entry fees or permits for camping, backcountry travel, or specific activities like fishing. Check the park’s official website before visiting. For wildlife tours in places like the Great Bear Rainforest, guided operators may require advance reservations.
Q: What should I pack for a trip to these forests?
A: Pack sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing for changing weather, insect repellent, sunscreen, a map, and plenty of water. If camping, bring a tent, food, a first aid kit, and bear-proof food storage where necessary. In colder months, extra insulation and waterproof gear are essential.
Q: Can I bring my dog to these forests?
A: Many forests allow dogs but require them to be on a leash, especially in national and provincial parks. Some sensitive ecosystems may prohibit pets to protect wildlife. Always check park regulations before bringing your dog and clean up after them.
Q: What wildlife safety precautions should I take?
A: Learn about the wildlife in the area before you go. Store food properly, keep a safe distance from animals, and never feed them. In bear country, carry bear spray and know how to use it. If hiking in remote areas, make noise to avoid surprising animals.
Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Many forests offer guided tours, ranging from wildlife viewing excursions to interpretive hikes. Indigenous-led tours in places like the Great Bear Rainforest provide cultural insights. Some parks also have ranger-led programs during peak seasons. Booking in advance is recommended for specialized tours.
Did we leave any of your favorite Canadian forests off our list? Let us know in the comments below!
Leave a Reply