20 Best National Parks In Canada

Written by Joeri Van Overloop

As a nature enthusiast, I have had the privilege of exploring some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Canada. From coast to coast, this vast country is home to an array of stunning national parks that deserve recognition.

In this article, I will be sharing my personal experiences and insights on the best national parks in Canada. So whether you're seeking rugged mountain ranges, pristine lakes, national historic sites, or dense forests teeming with wildlife, get ready to embark on a virtual journey through some of the most awe-inspiring natural wonders that Canada has to offer.

1. Banff National Park

As the first national park in Canada, I have to say that Banff National Park is one of my favorite places in Canada. Located in the heart of the Rocky Mountains in Alberta, this Canadian Rocky mountain park is a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

One of the most famous attractions in Banff Park is Lake Louise. Its turquoise waters and stunning mountain views are simply breathtaking. Hiking around the lake is a popular activity, and there are several trails of varying difficulty levels to choose from.

Another must-see spot in Banff National Park is Moraine Lake. This glacially-fed lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is especially beautiful in the early morning light.

For those who love outdoor adventure, Banff National Park offers endless opportunities. From hiking and camping to skiing and snowboarding, there is something for everyone. The park is also home to the Icefields Parkway, which is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world.

Parks Canada manages Banff National Park, and there are several campgrounds and accommodations available for visitors.

2. Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is one of the most popular Canadian national parks. Situated in the province of Alberta, this national park in the Canadian Rockies offers visitors a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing. The park covers an area of over 11,000 square kilometers and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.

The park is known for its stunning landscapes, including glaciers, lakes, and mountains. Visitors can explore the park on foot, by bike, or on horseback. There are over 1,000 kilometers of trails to choose from, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The park is also home to a number of campgrounds, making it a great destination for a camping trip.

One of the most popular attractions in the park is Maligne Lake, which is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning mountain scenery. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake or rent a canoe or kayak to explore on their own. Another popular activity in the park is wildlife viewing. The park is home to a range of animals, including bears, elk, and moose.

3. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

As I explore the best parks in Canada, I can't help but mention the Pacific Rim National Park. Located in British Columbia on the coast of Vancouver island, this park is a true gem on the West Coast of Canada.

The park is home to the famous West Coast Trail, which is a 75 km long hiking trail that attracts hikers from all over the world. The trail is known for its challenging terrain and amazing views of the Pacific Ocean.

Aside from the West Coast Trail, the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve has a lot to offer. The beautiful place is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including black bears, cougars, and gray whales. The park's lakes and beaches are also popular attractions, with Long Beach being one of the most famous beaches in Canada.

The park's landscapes are truly breathtaking, with rainforests, beaches, and rugged coastlines all within reach. There are also a variety of hiking trails located on Vancouver island hat cater to all levels of hikers, making it a great destination for families and solo travelers.

4. Yoho National Park

I have visited many beautiful national parks in Canada, but Yoho National Park stands out as one of the most beautiful and adventurous. Situated in the center of the Canadian Rockies, Yoho National Park is a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

One of the main attractions of Yoho Park is its stunning waterfalls. The park is home to some of the most beautiful waterfalls in Canada, including Takakkaw Falls, which is one of the highest waterfalls in Canada.

In addition to waterfalls, Yoho National Park is also known for its hiking trails. There are over 400 km of trails in the park, ranging from easy walks to challenging multi-day hikes. One of the most popular hikes is the Iceline Trail, which offers fantastic views of glaciers and mountains.

For those interested in geology, Yoho National Park is home to the Burgess Shale, which is one of the most important fossil sites in the world. Tourists can take guided hikes to learn more about the fossils and the history of the park.

5. Glacier National Park

Glacier National Park in Montana is one of the most beautiful national parks adjacent to Canada. One of the most popular activities in Glacier National Park is hiking. With over 140 km of trails, there is something for every hiker, from beginner to advanced hikers. Some of the most popular hikes include the Asulkan Valley Trail, the Abbott Ridge Trail, and the Balu Pass Trail.

In addition to hiking, Glacier Park is also known for its glaciers. The park is home to over 400 glaciers, which are some of the most accessible in Northern Canada. You can take guided tours of the glaciers or explore them on your own.

Another unique feature of Glacier National Park is the Burgess Shale Fossils. These fossils are some of the most important in the world and provide a glimpse into the ancient marine life that lived in the area over 500 million years ago.

6. Kootenay National Park

Kootenay National Park is a stunning destination in British Columbia It borders Banff National Park and is the place to go for outdoor adventure enthusiasts. The park covers an area of 1,406 square kilometers and offers a variety of activities.

One of the main attractions in Kootenay Park is hiking. The park has 62 trails for hiking, camping, and backpacking, and the trails range from easy to difficult and provide breathtaking views of the Canadian Rocky mountains. Some of the popular trails include the Paint Pots Trail, Stanley Glacier Trail, and Marble Canyon Trail.

In addition to hiking, Kootenay National Park is also known for its hot springs. Radium Hot Springs is a popular destination for visitors looking to relax and unwind. The hot springs are located in a beautiful setting and offer the best views of the surrounding mountains.

Parks Canada offers a variety of guided hikes and tours in Kootenay National Park. These tours provide visitors with the opportunity to learn about the park's history, geology, and wildlife.

7. Cape Breton Highlands National Park

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is situated in Nova Scotia, it is a stunning national park that offers visitors a chance to explore some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the country.

Covering an area of 950 square kilometers, Cape Breton Park is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park is known for its beautiful forests, fjords, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Visitors can explore the park's many trails, including the famous Cabot Trail and Skyline Trail, which offer incredible views of the park's landscapes.

Cape Breton Highlands National Park is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which recognizes its importance as a unique natural and cultural landscape. The park is home to a rich history and culture, with many opportunities to learn about the Mi'kmaq people who have lived in the area for thousands of years.

8. Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne National Park is located in Newfoundland, this national park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers visitors a chance to experience the unique wilderness of the area.

One of the highlights of Gros Morne National Park is the Western Brook Pond Fjord. This freshwater fjord is a stunning example of glacier-carved landscapes, with waterfalls cascading from 2000 feet and billion-year-old cliffs. Visitors can take a boat tour to experience the fjord up close and see the frequent wildlife sightings.

For those looking for a more active adventure, Gros Morne Park offers a variety of hiking trails. The Tablelands, located between the towns of Trout River and Woody Point, is a unique hiking destination due to the ultramafic rock, peridotite, which makes up the landscape. This barren desert-like landscape is a stark contrast to the traditional Newfoundland scenery and offers hikers a chance to explore a unique environment.

9. Waterton Lakes National Park

Waterton Lakes National Park, which is located in the southwest corner of Alberta, is one of the lesser-known national parks in Western Canada, but it is a hidden gem that is worth exploring.

Waterton Lakes Park is part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park. The park is known for its stunning lakes, including Upper Waterton Lake, Middle Waterton Lake, and Lower Waterton Lake. The park is also home to several waterfalls, including Cameron Falls, which is a popular spot for visitors.

The park has over 200 kilometers of hiking trails, including the Lineham Creek Trail, which is a challenging hike that offers great views of the mountains.

10. Riding Mountain National Park

I have to say that Riding Mountain National Park is one of my favorite national parks in Canada. Located in Manitoba, Riding Mountain is a beautiful wilderness area that offers a wide range of outdoor adventures and activities. The park is home to an incredible diversity of animals living in the wild, including wolves, moose, elk, black bears, and more.

One of the things that I love about Riding Mountain is the variety of hikes that are available. Whether you're looking for an easy stroll or a challenging hike, there's something for everyone. Some of the most popular trails include the Moon Lake Trail, the Bald Hill Trail, and the Whirlpool Lake Trail.

In addition to hiking, Riding Mountain National Park is also a great place for camping. There are several campgrounds located throughout the park, offering a range of camping options from basic tent sites to full-service RV sites.

If you're looking for a more unique outdoor adventure, Riding Mountain also offers a range of activities like horseback riding, canoeing, and fishing. There are several lakes and rivers throughout the park that are perfect for fishing, and the park also offers a number of guided fishing tours.

11. Prince Edward Island National Park

Prince Edward Island National Park is one of the most beautiful Canadian national parks. You can find it on the north shore of Prince Edward Island and is known for its stunning beaches, diverse landscapes, and exciting outdoor activities. This incredible national park is situated on the Gulf of St. Lawrence and offers visitors the chance to swim, bike, hike, and explore the natural beauty of the region.

The park is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Canada, including Cavendish Beach, which is known for its red sand and crystal-clear waters. The park also features a variety of landscapes, including sand dunes, salt marshes, and forests. Visitors can explore the park on foot or by bike, with many trails and paths available for hiking and cycling.

In addition to its natural beauty, Prince Edward Island National Park also offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors. These include interpretive programs, guided tours, and educational exhibits that showcase the history and culture of the region.

12. Kluane National Park

Kluane National Park is a stunning wilderness area located in the Yukon Territory of Canada. It is home to the largest non-polar icefields in the world, and 17 of Canada's 20 tallest mountains, including Mount Logan, the highest peak in Canada.

One of the most popular activities in Kluane Park is hiking. The park has everything from short and easy hikes to epic backcountry treks.

Another must-see attraction in the park is the ancient glaciers that feed the Alsek River. The sprawling Alsek Valley is a sight to behold and offers visitors a chance to witness the power of nature.

For those seeking a bit of history, Kluane National Park and Reserve also has a fascinating Gold Rush history. The park is unconventional and untamed, making it a unique destination that defies hyperbole.

13. Auyuittuq National Park

I have always been fascinated by the Arctic wilderness, and Auyuittuq National Park is one of the best places to experience it. Located on Baffin Island, Auyuittuq is a vast expanse of rugged mountains, glaciers, and tundra that lies within the Arctic Circle. The park's name means "the land that never melts" in Inuktitut, and it's easy to see why: the landscape is dominated by ice and snow, even in the summer months.

Despite its remote location, Auyuittuq is a popular destination for outdoor adventurers. The third largest national park in Canada offers world-class opportunities for skiing, snowshoeing, rock climbing, and mountaineering, all in a stunning Arctic environment. The Akshayuk Pass hike is one of the park's most popular attractions, a 100-kilometre-long natural corridor that takes hikers through some of the most spectacular scenery in Canada.

One of the unique aspects of Auyuittuq Park is the cooperative management system between Parks Canada and the Inuit people. The Inuit have lived in this area for thousands of years and have an intimate knowledge of the land and its wildlife. Parks Canada works closely with the Inuit to manage the park, ensuring that traditional knowledge is integrated into conservation efforts. This partnership has helped to ensure that Auyuittuq remains a pristine wilderness for generations to come.

14. Grasslands National Park

Grasslands National Park is one of the most unique parks in Canada. Situated in Saskatchewan, this park is a true wilderness experience, with vast expanses of prairie grasslands, rolling hills, and stunning vistas.

One of the most fascinating aspects of Grasslands Park is the amount of animals that live in the wild that can be found here. The park is home to a variety of species, including the black-tailed prairie dog, which can be seen in large colonies throughout the park. There are also bison, coyotes, and a variety of bird species to be seen.

The park also offers opportunities for camping, backcountry camping, and stargazing, with the park being one of the largest and darkest dark sky preserves in Canada.

15. Bruce Peninsula National Park

I am excited to share with you one of the top national parks in Canada - Bruce Peninsula National Park. Located in Ontario, this park is a true gem that offers a unique outdoor adventure experience.

The park covers an area of 156 square kilometers and is situated on the Niagara Escarpment, forming the core of UNESCO's Niagara Escarpment World Biosphere Reserve. Its unique geology is characterized by limestone cliffs, caves, and rock formations that are millions of years old.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in the park is the Grotto, a stunning cave with crystal-clear blue water. Visitors can swim, dive, and explore the cave, making it a perfect spot for adventure seekers.

When it comes to camping, the park has several campgrounds that offer both backcountry and frontcountry camping options.

16. Mount Revelstoke National Park

Mount Revelstoke National Park is a stunning national park located in the Canadian Rockies of British Columbia.

One of the unique features of Mount Revelstoke Park is that visitors can drive to the top of a towering mountain, which is the only mountain in the Canadian national park system where visitors can reach the summit with just a short walk from their car.

In addition to hiking, Mount Revelstoke offers a variety of outdoor adventures such as camping, picnicking, and wildlife viewing. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife including black bears, grizzly bears, moose, elk, and more.

17. Thousand Islands National Park

Thousand Islands National Park is an amazing park in southeastern Ontario. The park is known for its unique archipelago of islands scattered along the St. Lawrence River. As one of Canada's smallest national parks, the park covers just a 24.4 square km (15.16 square mile) area between Landon Bay and Mallorytown Landing, while the islands stretch between the cities of Brockville and Kingston. The islands are actually the worn-down tops of ancient mountains.

Thousand Islands is a great spot for outdoor adventure. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities, including camping, boating, paddling, hiking, and more. The park offers campsites and oTENTiks for overnight accommodations. Visitors can also rent boats at the park or bring their own.

With its unique archipelago of islands, beautiful scenery, and variety of outdoor things to do, the park is a great place to spend time with family and friends.

18. Wapusk National Park

I have to say that Wapusk National Park is one of the most unique and fascinating national parks in Canada. This park was established in 1996 and covers an area of 2,836,000 acres.

One of the most distinctive features of Wapusk Park is its wilderness. This park is one of the few places in the world where visitors can watch tiny, newborn polar bear cubs emerge from their dens in late February. It is truly a sight to behold.

But Wapusk National Park is not just about polar bears. This park is also home to a wide range of other wildlife, including caribou, wolves, foxes, and more. Parks Canada manages Wapusk National Park and provides a range of facilities and services to visitors. These include a visitor center, polar bear viewing opportunities, aerial tours, and more.

19. Nahanni National Park

Nahanni National Park Reserve is situated in the Dehcho Region of the Northwest Territories. The park covers an area of over 30,000 square kilometers and is home to breathtaking canyons, majestic waterfalls, and stunning natural beauty.

One of the most notable features of Nahanni Park is the South Nahanni River, which flows through the park and offers visitors the opportunity to explore the park's stunning natural scenery by canoe or kayak. The river is also home to some of the park's most famous attractions, including Virginia Falls, which is twice the height of Niagara Falls and is a must-see destination for anyone visiting the park.

In addition to its natural beauty, the park is home to the traditional territory of the Dene people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. Visitors to the park can learn about the Dene people and their culture by visiting the park's interpretive center, which features exhibits on the history, culture, and traditions of the Dene people.

20. Pukaskwa National Park

Pukaskwa National Park is located along the shores of Lake Superior. It is one of the most remote and wild national parks in the country, offering visitors a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Canadian wilderness.

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including moose, black bears, and wolves. Visitors can hike along the park's many trails, which offer memorable views of the lake and surrounding forests. The park's Bimose Kinoomagewnan Coastal Hiking Trail is a popular destination, offering a challenging and rewarding hike along the rugged coastline.