Canada, a land of breathtaking landscapes and diverse cultures, offers an unparalleled road trip experience. From coast to coast, the country boasts scenic highways that wind through majestic mountains, pristine lakes, and charming coastal towns. Embark on an unforgettable adventure and explore the best road trips in Canada. Whether you seek a thrilling cross-country expedition or a shorter, more focused journey, Canada has a dream road trip waiting for you. Discover 10 dream road trips in Canada that you should add to your travel bucket list and prepare to be captivated by the country’s natural beauty and vibrant spirit.
This carefully curated list of 10 dream road trips in Canada showcases some of the most iconic routes and hidden gems this vast country has to offer. Whether you’re drawn to the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rockies, the charming coastal drives of the Maritimes, or the historical richness of Central Canada, there is a road trip in Canada for every traveler. Prepare to be inspired and start planning your next Canadian road trip adventure. Let the open road lead you to unforgettable experiences and memories that will last a lifetime. Consider these top 10 road trips in Canada as your ultimate guide to exploring this remarkable country.
Icefields Parkway, Alberta
The Icefields Parkway, also known as Highway 93 North, is a stunning 144-mile stretch of road winding through the Canadian Rockies. Connecting Lake Louise and Jasper, this drive offers unparalleled views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks.
Key highlights include the Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Glacier, and Peyto Lake. Opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring numerous scenic viewpoints abound.
Be sure to allow ample time for stops and consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Sea to Sky Highway, BC
The Sea to Sky Highway, officially Highway 99, offers a breathtaking journey from Vancouver to Whistler, British Columbia. This scenic route lives up to its name, traversing dramatic coastal landscapes and ascending into towering mountain peaks.
Highlights of this drive include the stunning Howe Sound, the cascading Shannon Falls, and the granite cliffs of the Stawamus Chief.
Outdoor activities abound along the way, with opportunities for hiking, rock climbing, and even bungee jumping. Arriving in Whistler, visitors are greeted by a world-class ski resort village, offering year-round recreation.
Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
The Cabot Trail, located in Cape Breton Highlands National Park, is renowned as one of the most scenic drives in the world. This 185-mile (298-kilometer) loop hugs the coastline, offering breathtaking views of the rugged cliffs, the vast ocean, and lush forests.
Experience a diverse range of landscapes along the Cabot Trail, from the dramatic highlands to the serene beaches. Opportunities abound for hiking, camping, kayaking, and whale watching. Be sure to allow at least three days to fully experience this unforgettable drive.
Key highlights of the Cabot Trail include the breathtaking views from the Cabot Trail lookout points, hiking trails, and picturesque fishing villages.
Pacific Rim Highway, BC
The Pacific Rim Highway, officially Highway 4, offers a stunning coastal drive on Vancouver Island, British Columbia. This route takes you through ancient rainforests, alongside rugged beaches, and provides breathtaking ocean views.
Key highlights of this drive include the charming town of Tofino, known for surfing and its laid-back atmosphere, and Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, a must-see for its ecological diversity. Explore the beaches, hike amongst the old-growth trees, and experience the raw beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
Viking Trail, Newfoundland
Embark on a journey through time and breathtaking coastal scenery along Newfoundland’s Viking Trail. This 443-kilometer route winds along the western coast of the island, offering glimpses into the rich history of the Vikings and the rugged beauty of the province.
Begin your adventure at Deer Lake and journey north towards L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, you’ll discover the remnants of a Norse settlement dating back over 1,000 years, marking the first European presence in North America.
Continue north to explore the dramatic landscapes of the Great Northern Peninsula, known for its icebergs, whales, and unique coastal formations. The charming towns along the route provide opportunities to experience local culture and enjoy fresh seafood.
Route 132, Quebec Gaspé Peninsula
Route 132 hugs the coastline of the Gaspé Peninsula, offering breathtaking views of the St. Lawrence River and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. This scenic drive is approximately 885 km (550 mi) long and traverses through charming seaside villages, dramatic cliffs, and picturesque lighthouses.
Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island, home to a significant Northern Gannet colony, are must-see attractions along this route. Opportunities for whale watching, kayaking, and hiking abound, making this a truly memorable road trip.
Trans-Canada Highway Through Rockies
The Trans-Canada Highway offers an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. This iconic route traverses Banff and Jasper National Parks, showcasing breathtaking mountain scenery, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife.
Highlights of this drive include the Icefields Parkway, a scenic roadway connecting Banff and Jasper, and Lake Louise, renowned for its stunning glacial waters and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel. Keep an eye out for elk, deer, and even bears as you make your way through this majestic landscape.
Key Stops:
- Banff National Park
- Lake Louise
- Jasper National Park
- Icefields Parkway
Highway 132, Charlevoix Region
Highway 132, also known as the Route des Navigateurs, offers a breathtaking coastal drive through the Charlevoix region of Quebec. This scenic route hugs the St. Lawrence River, providing stunning views of the water, mountains, and charming villages.
The drive is approximately 130 kilometers long and is best experienced at a leisurely pace, allowing for stops to explore the picturesque towns along the way such as Baie-Saint-Paul, known for its art galleries and vibrant cultural scene.
Highlights of this road trip include the dramatic landscapes, local artisan shops, and opportunities for whale watching excursions.
Sunshine Coast Route, BC
Embark on a captivating coastal journey along British Columbia’s Sunshine Coast. This scenic route offers a unique blend of natural beauty and charming seaside communities. Spanning approximately 180 kilometers, the Sunshine Coast Highway stretches from Langdale to Earls Cove, showcasing breathtaking ocean vistas and lush forests.
Ferries play a vital role in accessing and traversing the Sunshine Coast, adding to the overall charm of the trip. Discover the quaint towns of Gibsons, Sechelt, and Powell River, each with its own distinct character and attractions. Indulge in local seafood, explore artisan shops, and immerse yourself in the relaxed coastal atmosphere. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy kayaking, hiking, and wildlife viewing opportunities. Experience the serenity and captivating beauty of the Sunshine Coast.
Highway 10, Prince Edward Island
Highway 10, also known as the North Cape Coastal Drive, offers a scenic journey through the northern tip of Prince Edward Island. This route showcases the island’s rugged coastline, charming fishing villages, and breathtaking ocean vistas.
Along the drive, be sure to explore the North Cape Wind Energy Interpretive Centre, which boasts impressive wind turbines and interactive exhibits. Enjoy the red cliffs and sandy beaches that define this picturesque region. This route is perfect for those seeking a tranquil escape with stunning natural beauty.
