Buckle up, adventurers! With open arms and endless roads, Canada awaits, beckoning you to embark on an unforgettable journey through its stunning landscapes.
Canada offers something for everyone, whether you're a seasoned traveller or a road trip rookie.
This vast country is a playground for exploration, from rugged mountains, pristine lakes, charming small towns, and vibrant cities.
Let your wanderlust take over, and get ready to hit the road for an adventure like no other as Ask Genie takes you on a journey through the best road trips in Canada.
5 Top Tips for Maximizing Your Road Trip Experience
Before you embark on your Canadian road trip, we thought we’d share a few top tips to take your journey to the next level.
- Plan ahead, but stay flexible: While it's essential to have a rough itinerary, you have to leave some room for spontaneity. Some of the best experiences come from unexpected detours and hidden gems along the way, so embrace them!
- Pack light, pack right: Space is limited in your vehicle, so prioritize essentials like snacks, water, a first-aid kit, and weather-appropriate clothing. Leave room for souvenirs, but don't overpack: less is more when it comes to road-tripping.
- Embrace the journey: Road trips are about more than just reaching your destination. Enjoy the scenic drives, stop at roadside attractions, and savour every moment.
- Stay safe: Canada's vast wilderness can be unforgiving, so keep your vehicle well-maintained, obey traffic laws, and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Let someone know your itinerary and check in regularly, especially if you’re travelling alone or you plan on venturing off the beaten track.
- Respect nature and wildlife: Leave no trace and tread lightly on the land. Dispose of waste properly, refrain from feeding wildlife, and observe from a safe distance. Help preserve Canada's natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.
Now you have the knowledge, it's about time you got your Canada road trip itinerary fine-tuned. This country truly has everything from long, winding roads to vast national parks.
When the trekking is over, you may want to treat yourself to a bit of luxury. Look at the best cities in Canada to enjoy a luxury getaway if you feel like extending your trip.
The 11 Best Road Trips in Canada
Canada is a big place, but we don't need to tell you that. With so much land to explore, it can be daunting trying to land upon the perfect route for you and your fellow wanderers.
Here at Spin Genie, we want you to get on the road as soon as possible, so we compiled this list of Canada's 12 best road trips. We'll do the hard work while you rummage around in your attic, trying to find your trusty old walking boots.
1. The Icefields Parkway (Alberta)
Route: Jasper to Banff National Park
Distance: Approximately 230 km
Duration: 2-3 days
Highlights: Athabasca Falls, Columbia Icefield, Peyto Lake
The Icefields Parkway is often regarded as one of the most scenic drives in the world, offering jaw-dropping vistas at every turn.
This route showcases the best of Alberta's Rocky Mountains, from towering glaciers to turquoise lakes. Don't miss the chance to walk on the Athabasca Glacier or snap a selfie at the iconic Peyto Lake lookout.
2. Cabot Trail (Nova Scotia)
Route: Circular route around Cape Breton Island
Distance: Approximately 300 km
Duration: 3-4 days
Highlights: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Skyline Trail, French Mountain
Prepare to be enchanted by the rugged beauty of Nova Scotia's Cabot Trail. Winding along the coastline of Cape Breton Island, this scenic drive offers sweeping ocean views, quaint fishing villages, and dramatic cliffs.
Hike the Skyline Trail for panoramic vistas, spot whales breaching offshore, and immerse yourself in the rich Celtic culture of the region.
3. The Pacific Rim Highway (British Columbia)
Route: Nanaimo to Tofino
Distance: Approximately 200 km
Duration: 2-3 days
Highlights: Cathedral Grove, Long Beach, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve
Escape to the wild west coast of Vancouver Island on the Pacific Rim Highway. As you meander through ancient rainforests and along rugged shores, you'll encounter towering trees in Cathedral Grove, endless stretches of sandy beaches at Long Beach, and the untamed beauty of Pacific Rim National Park Reserve.
Catch a wave, go whale watching, or simply soak in the serenity of this glorious setting.
4. The Viking Trail (Newfoundland and Labrador)
Route: Deer Lake to St. Anthony
Distance: Approximately 500 km
Duration: 5-7 days
Highlights: Gros Morne National Park, L'Anse aux Meadows, Western Brook Pond
Step back in time and explore the rugged landscapes of Newfoundland and Labrador on the Viking Trail. Discover the geological wonders of Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, stroll through the only known Viking settlement in North America at L'Anse aux Meadows, and cruise through the breathtaking fjords of Western Brook Pond.
With every twist and turn on this road trip, you'll uncover Canada's easternmost province's rich history and natural beauty.
5. The Dempster Highway (Yukon and Northwest Territories)
Route: Dawson City to Inuvik
Distance: Approximately 740 km (one way)
Duration: 7-10 days
Highlights: Tombstone Territorial Park, Arctic Circle, Richardson Mountains
For one of the ultimate off-grid adventures, journey into the remote wilderness of Canada's north on the Dempster Highway. Cross the Arctic Circle, traverse the rugged tundra of Tombstone Territorial Park, and marvel at the stark beauty of the Richardson Mountains.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, too. You can expect to see caribou and grizzly bears as you immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the vast northern landscape.
6. The Trans-Canada Highway (Ontario to British Columbia)
Route: St. John's, Newfoundland to Victoria, British Columbia
Distance: Approximately 7,800 km
Duration: 10-14 days
Highlights: Lake Superior Provincial Park, Canadian Rockies, Okanagan Valley
Spanning over 7,800 kilometres, the Trans-Canada Highway is the ultimate cross-country road trip. Begin your journey on the rugged shores of Newfoundland's east coast and traverse the vast landscapes of Canada's heartland.
Marvel at the towering cliffs of Lake Superior, witness the beauty of the Canadian Rockies and indulge in some world-class wines from the Okanagan Valley. With diverse scenery and cultural experiences along the way, this epic road trip is sure to leave a lasting impression.
7. The Cabot Trail (Prince Edward Island)
Route: Circular route around Prince Edward Island
Distance: Approximately 300 km
Duration: 3-4 days
Highlights: Green Gables, Cavendish Beach, North Cape
Explore the charm and beauty of Canada's smallest province on the Cabot Trail in Prince Edward Island. Wind your way along coastal cliffs, pastoral landscapes, and quaint fishing villages. Visit the inspiration behind L.M. Montgomery's beloved Anne of Green Gables series at Green Gables Heritage Place, sink your toes into the red sands of Cavendish Beach, and take in the North Cape's wind-swept coastline.
With its mix of history, natural beauty, and maritime culture, this road trip is a true gem.
8. The Sea-to-Sky Highway (British Columbia)
Route: Vancouver to Whistler
Distance: Approximately 120 km
Duration: 1-2 days
Highlights: Shannon Falls, Squamish, Whistler Blackcomb
Experience the best of British Columbia's stunning coastline and mountainous terrain on the Sea-to-Sky Highway. As you journey from Vancouver to Whistler, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, towering waterfalls like Shannon Falls, and the dramatic peaks of the Coast Mountains.
Stop in the outdoor recreation mecca of Squamish for rock climbing or kiteboarding, then continue on to Whistler to explore its world-class Canadian ski resorts, mountain biking trails, and vibrant village atmosphere.
9. The Fundy Coastal Drive (New Brunswick)
Route: Circular route along the Bay of Fundy
Distance: Approximately 350 km
Duration: 3-5 days
Highlights: Hopewell Rocks, Fundy National Park, Cape Enrage
Discover the dramatic tides and rugged coastline of the Bay of Fundy on the Fundy Coastal Drive in New Brunswick. Marvel at the iconic flowerpot rocks at Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park, hike through old-growth forests in Fundy National Park, and brave the thrilling zip line at Cape Enrage.
Along the way, sample fresh seafood, explore historic fishing villages, and witness the highest tides in the world. With its mix of natural wonders and outdoor adventures, this road trip promises an unforgettable maritime experience.
10. The Algonquin Park Loop (Ontario)
Route: Circular route through Algonquin Provincial Park
Distance: Approximately 240 km
Duration: 2-3 days
Highlights: Canoeing on Algonquin's lakes, hiking the Lookout Trail, wildlife viewing
Immerse yourself in the wilderness of Ontario's Algonquin Provincial Park on the Algonquin Park Loop. Paddle through crystal-clear lakes, hike rugged trails, and encounter iconic Canadian wildlife such as moose, beavers, and loons. Stop at one of the park's many scenic viewpoints, like the Lookout Trail, for breathtaking vistas of the surrounding forests and lakes.
Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or simply seeking tranquillity in nature, this road trip offers a rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Algonquin Provincial Park was named one of the best places for a winter getaway in Ontario. Want to find out more? Take a look at our guide!
11. The Canadian Rockies Circle Tour (Alberta and British Columbia)
Route: Calgary to Calgary via Banff, Lake Louise, and Jasper
Distance: Approximately 800 km
Duration: 5-7 days
Highlights: Moraine Lake, Maligne Canyon, Banff Gondola
Embark on an epic circle tour of the Canadian Rockies, starting and ending in the vibrant city of Calgary. First, you’ll head west to the picturesque town of Banff, where you can soak in the stunning views from the Banff Gondola or take a leisurely stroll around Banff Avenue. Continue your journey to the iconic Lake Louise, where the emerald waters are set against the backdrop of Victoria Glacier.
As you make your way north to Jasper National Park, be sure to stop at Moraine Lake for its breathtaking beauty and explore the deep canyons of Maligne Canyon. Finish your adventure with a scenic drive along the Icefields Parkway, where you'll encounter glaciers, waterfalls, and some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in the world. Finally, return to Calgary with memories to last a lifetime.
Jasper National Park has been named one of the best places to see wildlife in Canada. Want to find out what you might see whilst there? Take a look at our guide!
Make your exploration dreams come true with the help of Spin Genie
With its vast wilderness, stunning scenery, and endless adventures, Canada is a road-tripper's paradise waiting to be explored.
With the freedom to roam the entire Canadian wilderness, you can head south, north, east or west. All you need now is some extra funds to make your next road trip as memorable as possible.
To earn some extra spending money, why not have a go at the best online slots and online casinos in Ontario? If you play your cards right, you could be cruising around the wilderness in some luxury exploring gear in no time.
Are you curious to know more about what Canada has to offer? Why not Ask Genie to learn more? Or take a look at our recommendations below:
- The 14 Most Scenic Train Rides in Canada You Must Try
- The 12 Best Places to Visit in Canada in Winter
- The 6 Best Places to Go in Canada for Spring Break
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