For many Canadians, travel within their own country is becoming more and more popular, especially with the country’s diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and cities. However, even for the most seasoned Canadians, it can be difficult to decide where to go. So what are the top domestic destinations in Canada? Read on to find out more.
Jasper National Park
It’s hard to mention travel in Canada without mentioning its incomparable national parks. With lakes and snow-crested mountains, Canada’s national parks rival America’s Rocky Mountain landscapes with their unsurpassed beauty.
Jasper National Park is considered by many to be one of the top travel destinations in Canada and is the country’s largest national park. Located in Alberta and spanning 2.7 million acres, this park has been named a UNESCO Heritage Site. Adventurers can trek the peaks of Mount Edith Cavell or dive into the depths of Maligne Canyon. After exploring the park’s glaciers, rivers, mountains, and canyons, visit the town of Jasper for tours, excursions, skiing, and a whole host of other activities.
Quebec City
If you’re already in Canada, then there’s no excuse to not book cheap domestic flights to Quebec! As one of North America’s oldest cities, Quebec is a history buff’s dream, with its cobbled streets, 18th-century houses, and historic churches. This town boasts Canada’s oldest newspaper, first Anglican church, and first French-speaking university. Winter is a popular time to visit Quebec, with top-notch cross-country skiing and the Winter Carnival that’s famed for its ice sculptures, ice rinks, and parades. Don’t forget to indulge in French delicacies and Quebec’s signature wine and whiskey hybrid drink, Caribou.
Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta
Banff is a beautiful resort town surrounded by the Canadian Rockies and boasts hot springs, glacial lakes, Banff National Park (Canada’s oldest national park), and world-renowned skiing. Banff is home to the world-famous Fairmont Banff Springs and is the busy hub of this popular vacation spot. If you’re looking for more solitude, Lake Louise is another incredible resort close to Banff with awe-inspiring views, hiking trails, and a wildlife center. Both are perfect for year-round travel and are considered must-visits” by native Canadians.
Toronto
Considered the most multi-cultural city in the world, Toronto has attractions for every type of tourist. The Distillery District, a pedestrian-only neighborhood, has turned Victorian-era industrial buildings into a dining and shopping mecca. Kensington Market is perfect for the foodie traveler, with cuisines from all over the world, or visit the traveler-friendly Entertainment District. Toronto also hosts a number of international festivals, including the Toronto Film Festival and numerous music festivals.
Kluane National Park, Yukon
Boasting the tallest mountain peak in Canada (19,551 feet), Kluane National Park in the Yukon territory is another giant park filled with mountain vistas and abundant wildlife. View the area via helicopter or ski-equipped plane to take in the grandeur, or hike on foot if it’s solitude you crave.
Niagara Falls, Ontario
One of the most famous tourist destinations in North America, Niagara Falls is a must-have on your travel bucket list. Made up of three different falls, Horseshoe Falls is on the Canadian border and boasts the highest drop at 173 feet and 90% of the water volume for the entire falls. See the falls close up on a boat tour (don’t forget the poncho!), and if you’re visiting in winter, make sure to take in the Winter Festival of Lights displays along the river.
Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
If you’re looking for an adventure well off the beaten path, Yellowknife may be your answer. A former gold mining town, this extreme adventure location is just a few hundred kilometers south of the Arctic Circle. Yet, with its all-day summer sunshine and winter northern lights, Yellowknife has become a year-round destination for the most adventurous of travelers. Summer tourists can enjoy hiking, canoeing, fishing, and birding, while the cold-weather enthusiasts can try the area’s ice fishing and dog sledding.
What are the top domestic destinations in Canada? With so many amazing spots to explore in both rural and urban areas, Canada is the perfect travel destination for all seasons.
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