Here are just 110 amazing outdoor adventures to whet your adventure appetite.This year, why leave Canada when the outdoor adventures of a lifetime is waiting right outside your doorstep? With issues to the south, there’s no better time to discover the unmatched beauty and thrills of Canada’s great outdoors. From the rugged peaks of the Rockies to the pristine coastlines of the Atlantic, our vast country offers an endless array of breathtaking landscapes and heart-pumping experiences.
1. Explore the Red Chairs in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia
Cape Breton Highlands National Park is home to the famous “Red Chairs” program, offering visitors a chance to relax and take in the breathtaking views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. The park features numerous hiking trails, stunning vistas, and the chance to encounter diverse wildlife, making it a must-visit spot for outdoor lovers.
2. Explore Meares Island to See Some of Canada’s Oldest Trees, British Columbia
Meares Island, located off the coast of Vancouver Island, is home to some of Canada’s oldest and most majestic trees. The island features an ancient temperate rainforest, including towering western red cedars and Sitka spruces, some over 1,000 years old. Hiking the island’s incredible Big Tree Trail allows you to walk among these living giants, offering a unique connection to the ancient natural world of British Columbia.
3. Travel along the Dempster Highway into the Arctic Circle
Drive the Dempster Highway into the Arctic Circle, where you’ll encounter extreme landscapes, wildlife, and the chance to experience the northernmost reaches of Canada.
4. Hike the 2.9-km Grouse Grind up the face of Grouse Mountain in North Vancouver
Known as the “Grouse Grind,” this steep, challenging trail offers stunning views of Vancouver from the top.
5. Ski the backcountry of Chic Chocs, Quebec
The Chic Chocs provide one of Quebec’s most impressive backcountry ski experiences, with rugged mountains and abundant snow.
6. Hike up and picnic at the Ferryland Lighthouse in Newfoundland
Enjoy a peaceful hike to one of Newfoundland’s most iconic lighthouses, where you can enjoy a scenic picnic overlooking the ocean.
7. Canoe the French River, Ontario
Paddle along the French River, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its winding waterways, stunning granite cliffs, and vibrant forest landscapes. This water route offers the perfect blend of tranquility and adventure.
8. Dog sled in Churchill, Manitoba
Traverse the frozen tundra of Churchill by dog sled, with opportunities to spot wildlife like polar bears and the northern lights.
9. Take a SUP tour of British Columbia’s Great Bear Rainforest
Paddle through the pristine waters of the Great Bear Rainforest on a stand-up paddleboard (SUP), exploring one of the world’s last temperate rainforests.
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10. Climb Mount Assiniboine the “Matterhorn of the Rockies” in British Columbia
Hire a guide and climb Mount Assiniboine, often called the “Matterhorn of the Rockies,” which takes you to one of the most stunning and remote spots in the Canadian Rockies. The climb offers breathtaking views of glaciers, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes.
11. Sea kayak Iceberg Alley in Newfoundland
Paddle past massive icebergs in the North Atlantic waters off the coast of Newfoundland, a truly unique sea kayaking experience.
12. Hike Ontario’s Bruce Trail
Stretching over 890 kilometres, the Bruce Trail offers some of Ontario’s best hiking, winding along the Niagara Escarpment with stunning views.
13. Skate on the Rideau Canal Skateway
Skate along the world’s largest naturally frozen skating rink, the iconic Rideau Canal, in the heart of Ottawa.
14. Run Vancouver’s Stanley Park
This scenic, 9-kilometre run takes you around the stunning waterfront of Vancouver’s famous Stanley Park, offering views of the mountains and ocean.
15. Climb (well, scramble) Mount Temple in Banff National Park
Mount Temple is one of Banff’s most challenging scrambles, providing breathtaking views of the Canadian Rockies from the summit.
16. Hike the West Coast Trail on Vancouver Island
The West Coast Trail is a challenging, multi-day hike through lush rainforests, rugged shorelines, and incredible coastal views.
17. Hike the East Coast Trail along the coast of Newfoundland
This spectacular trail offers cliffs, sea stacks, and coastal wilderness along Newfoundland’s rugged Atlantic coast.
18. Spend the night in Quebec’s Ice Hotel
Sleep in the stunning Hôtel de Glace, a hotel made entirely of ice and snow, offering a true winter wonderland experience.
19. Skate on the Lake Louise ice rink
This picturesque ice rink offers one of the most iconic skating experiences in Canada, nestled in the heart of the majestic Canadian Rockies.
20. Climb Mount Logan, Yukon
Mount Logan, the highest peak in Canada, is an exhilarating mountaineering challenge for experienced climbers. Standing at over 5,900 meters, this epic peak offers an immense and remote adventure, with stunning views of the surrounding glaciers and ice fields, making it one of the most sought-after climbs in North America.
21. Go whale watching for orcas at BC’s Johnstone Strait
Johnstone Strait is one of the best places to spot orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife in their natural habitat.
22. Kayak 6.5K to Flowerpot Island in Fathom Five National Marine Park
Paddle your way to this island in gorgeous Georgian Bay, famous for its towering rock formations and crystal-clear waters.
23. Take in the fall foliage at Algonquin Park in late September and early October
Algonquin Park is renowned for its vibrant fall colors, making it one of the top spots to see Canada’s stunning autumn foliage.
24. Bike the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia
The Cabot Trail is a world-renowned cycling route that offers sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Breton Highlands.
25. Mountain bike the trails of Vancouver’s North Shore
Vancouver’s North Shore is famous for its challenging mountain biking trails, offering an adrenaline-pumping experience through lush forests.
26. Hike Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park between Alberta and Saskatchewan
This unique park straddles the Alberta-Saskatchewan border, offering scenic hikes through forests, grasslands, and hills.
27. Surf at Lawrencetown Beach near Halifax, Nova Scotia
Lawrencetown Beach is famous for its consistent surf and laid-back vibe, perfect for surfers of all levels.
28. Take Go Bike! Festival in Montreal
Explore Montreal at this incredible urban cycling festival complete with two huge rides through different Montreal neighbourhoods, including one at night!
29. Canoe in Quetico Provincial Park in Northern Ontario
Quetico is a pristine wilderness park that offers crystal-clear lakes and wild landscapes, perfect for canoeing and camping.
30. Raft the Ottawa River
The Ottawa River offers thrilling whitewater rafting with rapids ranging from beginner to advanced levels, all set in beautiful scenery.
31. Bike the Confederation Trail across Prince Edward Island
Cycling the Confederation Trail offers a peaceful journey through the heart of PEI, with scenic views of rural landscapes and coastal beauty.
32. Celebrate Canada Day in Ottawa
Ottawa is the place to be on Canada Day, with incredible fireworks, concerts, and festivities along the nation’s capital’s streets.
33. Hike to the top of Gros Morne Mountain in Newfoundland’s Gros Morne National Park
The challenging climb up Gros Morne Mountain rewards hikers with stunning views of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
34. Glamping at Clayoquot Wilderness Resort in Tofino, British Columbia
Combine luxury and nature by staying at this high-end glamping resort in the heart of Vancouver Island’s rainforest.
35. Hike La Cloche Silhouette Trail in Killarney Provincial Park
This rugged and remote trail offers spectacular views of white quartzite mountains and clear blue lakes.
36. View aboriginal pictographs on the Grotto Canyon hike in Exshaw, Alberta
This short hike through Grotto Canyon reveals ancient aboriginal rock paintings along the way.
37. Complete an official beer mile
The Beer Mile is a fun and challenging race where participants run a mile while chugging beers at each lap.
38. Stay in an Alpine Club of Canada backcountry hut
Stay in one of the Alpine Club’s backcountry huts, located in some of Canada’s most beautiful mountain regions, perfect for hiking and skiing.
39. See the Northern Lights
Head north to the Yukon, Northwest Territories, or Nunavut for an unforgettable experience of the stunning Aurora Borealis.
40. Stay in a hobbit-like eco-lodge in Quebec’s Entre Cimes et Racine
Immerse yourself in nature with a stay in eco-friendly, hobbit-like lodges tucked away in Quebec’s pristine forest.
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41. Go back in time at Alberta’s Dinosaur Provincial Park
Explore ancient history at Dinosaur Provincial Park, home to some of the world’s richest dinosaur fossil beds.
42. Bike the scenic 58K Niagara River Recreation Trail along Niagara Falls
Cycle along the scenic Niagara River, with views of the famous Falls and beautiful nature trails.
43. Tackle the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail on Vancouver Island
This rugged 47-kilometre trail along Vancouver Island’s coastline offers stunning views of the ocean and wild landscapes.
44. See the polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba
Churchill is known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World,” where visitors can safely view these majestic creatures in the wild.
45. Sleep on the beach at Long Beach in Pacific Rim National Park, BC
Set up camp and sleep under the stars on Long Beach, where you can enjoy the soothing sound of the Pacific Ocean waves.
46. Tube float the Cowichan River in British Columbia
Relax on an inflatable tube and drift down the peaceful Cowichan River, surrounded by lush forests and calm waters.
47. Flashback to the gold rush on the Chilcoot Trail in the Yukon
Hike this historic trail, retracing the path of Klondike gold rush prospectors as they ventured to find their fortune.
49. Visit Jasper National Park’s Athabasca Falls
Visit the stunning Athabasca Falls in Jasper National Park.
49. Scuba dive in Fathom Five Marine National Park in Tobermory
Explore the shipwrecks and vibrant marine life that make this underwater park in Ontario a diver’s paradise.
50. Cross the Capilano Suspension Bridge in British Columbia
Step out on the Capilano Suspension Bridge, swaying high above the rainforest, and take in the incredible views of the surrounding nature.
51. Ride the Ridge Runner Mountain Coaster at Blue Mountain in Ontario
Zoom down the Ridge Runner, a thrilling mountain coaster that lets you control your speed as you race through Ontario’s Blue Mountain Resort.
52. Go bird watching in Point Pelee National Park, Ontario
Point Pelee is a prime spot for birdwatching, especially during migration season, where you can see a wide variety of birds in a beautiful wetland setting.
53. Horseback ride in the Canadian Rockies
Explore the majestic Canadian Rockies on horseback, where you’ll ride through meadows, forests, and valleys with incredible mountain views.
54. Raft the Kicking Horse River in the Rockies
Whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River provides thrills with its fast-moving rapids and breathtaking scenery of the Canadian Rockies.
55. Camp at Sandbanks Provincial Park in Picton, Ontario
With its sandy beaches and scenic views, Sandbanks Provincial Park is a fantastic spot for camping and enjoying Ontario’s outdoors.
56. Go tree-top trekking in Whistler, British Columbia
Challenge yourself on a high-flying adventure as you navigate obstacle courses and zip lines in the treetops of Whistler’s lush forests.
57. Go ice canoeing on the shores of the St. Lawrence in Quebec City
Ice canoeing is a unique and thrilling winter activity, where you paddle a canoe across the frozen St. Lawrence River through an icy landscape.
58. Take an island-hopping sailing tour of the 1000 Islands between the St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario
Sail between the idyllic islands, exploring quaint communities and stunning natural beauty, with opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and sightseeing.
59. Try fat biking
Fat biking lets you ride over snow, sand, and soft terrain with specially designed tires, providing a fun and unique way to explore winter landscapes.
60. Canoe the Missinaibi Lake in Chapleau, Ontario
Canoeing along the remote, scenic Missinaibi River takes you through one of Ontario’s most beautiful wilderness areas.
61. Downhill mountain bike at Ski Bromont in Quebec
Ski Bromont’s downhill mountain biking trails offer challenging terrain and a great thrill for riders of all levels, set in Quebec’s picturesque mountains.
62. Paddle and camp in Thousand Islands National Park in Ontario
Thousand Islands National Park offers an idyllic escape for kayaking and camping, with its stunning archipelago and serene waterways.
63. Stay in a yurt in Fundy National Park, New Brunswick
Enjoy the comforts of a yurt in Fundy National Park, where you can experience the stunning beauty of the Bay of Fundy.
64. Take the Chi-Cheemaun Ferry to Manitoulin Island, Ontario for a day of cycling
The Chi-Cheemaun Ferry brings you to Manitoulin Island, where you can cycle through peaceful countryside and enjoy the island’s scenic coastal views.
65. Stargaze in Wood Buffalo National Park in Northwest Territories
Wood Buffalo National Park is one of the darkest places in Canada, offering incredible stargazing opportunities, including the chance to view the Northern Lights.
66. Hike to the base of Virginia Falls in Nahanni National Park Reserve, Northwest Territories
A true wilderness adventure, the hike to Virginia Falls takes you through Nahanni National Park, home to one of Canada’s most stunning waterfalls.
67. Get up close and personal with wolves at the Haliburton Wild Life Reserve Wolf Centre
Learn about wolves and observe them in their natural habitat at the Haliburton Wild Life Reserve.
68. Have an Arctic experience off the beaten path at Auyuittuq National Park in Nunavut
Experience the Arctic wilderness in Auyuittuq National Park, where dramatic landscapes and polar wildlife await the adventurous traveler.
69. Surf Long Beach in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve in British Columbia
Long Beach offers some of the best surfing on Canada’s west coast, with consistent waves and a stunning setting in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
70. Spot grizzly bears as you float down the Atnarko River in Bella Coola, British Columbia
Take a guided float down the Atnarko River, where you can spot grizzly bears fishing for salmon in the wild, untamed environment.
71. Watch the summer caribou migration in Nunavik, Quebec
Witness the spectacular migration of caribou as they move through Nunavik’s expansive wilderness, offering a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife experience.
71. Take a hut-to-hut ski-tour of the Wapta Traverse in Alberta
This multi-day backcountry ski tour takes you across the stunning Wapta Icefield, staying in remote huts along the way for an unforgettable winter adventure.
73. Ski Ontario’s backcountry (no, seriously) at Algoma Highlands north of Sault St. Marie
For avid backcountry skiers, Algoma Highlands offers untracked snow and an authentic Ontario skiing experience away from the crowds.
74. Soak in Hot Springs Cove at Maquinna Marine Provincial Park in British Columbia
Relax in the natural hot springs of Maquinna Marine Provincial Park, where the warm waters are surrounded by lush rainforest and ocean views.
75. Hike Pisew Falls to Kwasitchewan Falls in Paint Lake/Pisew Falls Provincial Park, Manitoba
This challenging hike in Manitoba’s Paint Lake Provincial Park takes you through pristine wilderness to two stunning waterfalls.
76. Hit the backcountry and take a fall hike on the Mantario Trail in Manitoba
This remote trail offers a challenging and peaceful hiking experience through Manitoba’s wilderness, perfect for fall adventurers.
77. Explore the Lost Coast Trail in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, British Columbia
The Lost Coast Trail offers an intense backcountry adventure in the remote and rugged Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve. Only accessible by boat or floatplane, the trail is a hidden gem where you’ll hike past pristine beaches, ancient forests, and Indigenous heritage sites, with views of the Pacific Ocean.
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78. Recover from a day out there with cheese fondue at Banff’s The Grizzly House
After a day of outdoor activities, unwind with a delicious cheese fondue meal at Banff’s famous Grizzly House restaurant.
79. Visit the Narcisse Snake Dens in Manitoba
Springtime visits to the Narcisse Snake Dens offer a rare opportunity to witness thousands of red-sided garter snakes gathering for their annual mating ritual.
80. Explore the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park
Explore the waters where the Saguenay River meets the St. Lawrence River. The park offers kayaking, whale watching, and hiking, with the chance to spot beluga whales, seals, and seabirds in their natural habitat.
81. Hike and stay at the remote Lake of the Woods Campground in Cathedral Provincial Park, British Columbia
Lake of the Woods offers a beautiful, secluded campground, accessible by hiking, perfect for a remote getaway surrounded by spectacular mountain views.
82. Get a group of friends together and take an evening snowshoe fondue tour at Mount Tremblant
Mount Tremblant’s snowshoe fondue tour combines winter fitness with the enjoyment of a delicious fondue dinner, all while exploring the snow-covered mountain.
83. Hike and storm watch along Vancouver Island’s Wild Pacific Trail
This dramatic coastal hike lets you enjoy the wild beauty of Vancouver Island while storm watching, a thrilling and picturesque experience.
84. Revel in your Canadian-ness as you hike a section of the Trans Canada Trail
Walk a section of the Trans Canada Trail, the world’s longest continuous recreational trail, which spans the entire country and offers a variety of terrains.
85. Play a game of pond hockey
Grab your skates and stick and play a fun, impromptu game of pond hockey on one of Canada’s many frozen lakes or ponds in winter. When ready, sign up for a fun pond hockey tournament!
86. Hike the Rugged Wild Coast of Newfoundland’s Long Range Mountains
The Long Range Mountains in Newfoundland’s Gros Morne National Park offer a remote and rugged coastal hiking experience. Trek through alpine meadows, alongside deep fjords, and enjoy dramatic cliffs and waterfalls while surrounded by the untouched beauty of the wilderness.
87. Canoe in the paddle strokes of the Group of Seven’s Tom Thomson on Canoe Lake
Paddle through the beautiful waters of Canoe Lake in Ontario, the same area where renowned Canadian artist Tom Thomson found his inspiration.
88. Take an outdoor yoga class on Kitsilano Beach in British Columbia
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Kitsilano Beach while stretching and breathing deeply in an outdoor yoga class with the ocean as your backdrop.
89. Cycle some of the stunning 5,000 kilometres of Quebec’s La Route Verte
La Route Verte offers an extensive network of scenic cycling trails, allowing you to explore Quebec’s diverse landscapes from urban streets to rural roads including the famous P’tit Train du Nord.
90. Visit the Columbia Icefield in the Canadian Rockies
Take a trip to the Columbia Icefield and explore the glaciers that have shaped the Canadian Rockies, offering jaw-dropping views and unique ice adventures.
91. Wander through ancient rainforests in Haida Gwaii, British Columbia
Explore the lush, temperate rainforests of Haida Gwaii, where towering trees, diverse wildlife, and rich Indigenous culture await in this remote part of British Columbia.
92. Don your cross country skis at the historic Gatineau Loppet in Gatineau, Quebec
The Gatineau Loppet is Canada’s largest cross-country ski event, where participants of all skill levels can glide through the beautiful Gatineau Hills.
93. Stay in an oTENTik cabins at Cape Breton Highlands National Park in Nova Scotia
The unique oTENTik campsites offer a combination of tent and cabin for a cozy, back-to-nature experience in the stunning Cape Breton Highlands.
94. Bike the oldest road in the Yukon, the 30K Ridge Road Heritage Trail
Ride along the Ridge Road Heritage Trail, a scenic, historic route that offers a peek into the Yukon’s past and panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness.
95. Take a kayak tour of the Toronto Islands
Paddle across the waters surrounding the Toronto Islands, exploring quiet coves, sandy beaches, and enjoying stunning views of the city skyline.
96. Scuba dive and hunt for the 3-metre tall bronze mermaid statue in Mermaid Cove, Saltery Bay Provincial Park, British Columbia
Dive into the clear waters of Saltery Bay to discover the hidden 3-meter-tall mermaid statue, a unique and quirky underwater experience.
97. Kayak along the red cliffs of Quebec’s Îles-de-la-Madeleine islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence
Sea kayak along the stunning red cliffs of Îles-de-la-Madeleine, where you’ll paddle past dramatic coastal landscapes and crystal-clear waters.
98. Take in the mountains and flowers on the Cavell Meadows trail in Jasper National Park
The Cavell Meadows trail offers spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows full of wildflowers, and the towering Angel Glacier in Jasper National Park.
99. Take a seaplane to the famous Henry’s Fish Restaurant on Frying Pan Island in Sans Souci, Ontario
Fly by seaplane to Henry’s Fish Restaurant for an unforgettable lakeside dining experience, complete with fresh fish and scenic views.
100. Ski the champagne powder of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort outside of Golden, British Columbia
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is renowned for its deep powder and challenging terrain, making it a must-visit destination for avid skiers and snowboarders.
101. Tackle the Cape Scott Trail on Vancouver Island
The Cape Scott Trail in Cape Scott Park is a rugged and remote hike that offers dramatic coastal views, ancient rainforests, and pristine beaches.
102. Hike the Chief in Squamish, British Columbia
Hiking to the top of the Stawamus Chief leads to incredible views of the surrounding Sea-to-Sky corridor and the coastal mountains, making it one of British Columbia’s most popular hikes or climbs.
103. Spot Bald Eagles at Brackendale in British Columbia
Brackendale, BC, offers a unique opportunity to witness one of North America’s most majestic birds in their natural habitat. During the winter months, thousands of bald eagles migrate to the region, where you can see them up close while hiking or kayaking along the riverbanks.
104. Hike to the stunning Garibaldi Lake in Garibaldi Provincial Park
This challenging but rewarding hike brings you to the turquoise waters of Garibaldi Lake, framed by glaciers and towering peaks.
105. Hike to the Tea Houses in Lake Louise, Alberta
Lake Louise is famous for its stunning scenery, and hiking to the iconic tea houses is a must-do adventure. The Lake Agnes Tea House hike is a popular trail that takes you to a historic tea house overlooking Lake Agnes, while the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House offers breathtaking views of glaciers and the surrounding peaks. Both hikes provide a chance to enjoy the beauty of the Canadian Rockies and savor a warm drink at a remote mountain retreat.
106. Take a hike to the iconic Yoho National Park’s Takakkaw Falls
Yoho National Park’s Takakkaw Falls offers one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada, and the hike to the base is a scenic and memorable journey.
107. Explore the remote fishing camps in Northern Ontario
For a peaceful and off-the-beaten-path adventure, head to Northern Ontario’s remote fishing camps, where you can fish, camp, and reconnect with nature.
108. Take a wilderness survival course in the Yukon
Learn the skills necessary to survive in the wild by taking a wilderness survival course in the untamed Yukon wilderness, from fire-making to shelter-building.
109. Go for a night hike to see the stars at Kejimkujik National Park, Nova Scotia
Kejimkujik is a designated Dark Sky Preserve, making it an ideal location for stargazing during a peaceful evening hike through the park.
110. Try paragliding over the Columbia Valley, British Columbia
For a thrilling adventure, paraglide over the Columbia Valley, where you’ll soar above beautiful lakes, rivers, and the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
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