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13 of the Best Canada Road Trips That Will Blow Your Mind

April 30, 2019 By Matthew G. Bailey 12 Comments

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Canada Road Trip Last updated: April 1st, 2022

If the thought of being behind the wheel while driving amongst some of the most beautiful scenery in the world excites you, then this Canada road trip article is for you.

As world travellers that specialize in Canada travel, we’ve done some epic road trips in our lifetime, including the Australian East Coast, the Oregon Coast, California, and parts of Mexico, Malaysia, Peru, and New Zealand. Still, nothing compares to the 150-day road trip across Canada we did back in 2017. Comprising over 27,000 kilometres of asphalt (and some dirt roads as well), we got to explore Canada from coast to coast to coast. However, not everyone has 150 days to dedicate to driving across Canada.

While there are many other road trips not listed here, as well as a variety of incredible destinations that may not include an iconic road trip, we believe these 13 itineraries below are some of the best road trips in Canada and we hope they are helpful suggestions when you’re ready to take your next Canada road trip.

Let’s get started.

Table of Contents

Icefields Parkway, Alberta

How could I not start an article about Canada’s best road trips without first mentioning the Icefields Parkway, which has often been ranked as one of the best road trips in the entire world? Stretching 232 kilometres through both Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, this highway invites you into a journey of mind-blowing scenery, including mighty mountains, waterfalls, turquoise-coloured lakes and rivers, and glaciers too. While the drive from Banff to Jasper really only takes upwards of three-four hours, you’ll probably want to budget an entire day for all the stops you’ll be making to take photos, short hikes, or even full-on tours at the Columbia Glacier. Popular stops include Lake Louise, Peyto Lake, Columbia Icefield, Sunwapta Falls, and Athabasca Falls, just to name a few. For those coming from Calgary to Banff , you just continue towards Lake Louise and then head North on highway 93.

Best time to go: This Alberta road trip is best from June to September, although May works as well. October is also good if you don’t mind a higher chance of rain in exchange for much fewer tourists. From November until April, you should expect snow and ice. This is also a beautiful time to do the road trip, but you’ll need to be much better skilled at driving and expect delays. In addition, many things such as the Columbia Icefield tour are closed.

Bonus: Due to the popularity of this area, it’s also a great place for delicious food. There are so many restaurants in the area and we’ve made some extensive guides, such as our guide to the best Banff restaurants and the best Canmore restaurants .

Cowboy Trail, Alberta

If you’re looking for some prairie and mountainous “wild west” scenery, Alberta’s Cowboy Trail is the road trip for you. Primarily located just south of Calgary, you could start your experience in the province’s biggest city, taking time to explore the many things to do in Calgary such as the Glenbow Museum, Heritage Park, Studio Bell, or the new central library. If you’re up for a party, time your visit with the Calgary Stampede, which is known as the greatest outdoor show on Earth. You could even stop by the Alberta Boot Company and grab yourself some authentic Cowboy boots or other Western-style clothing.

While the actual “Cowboy Trail” refers to Highway 22, which travels all the way from the Edmonton area down into the USA, our favourite part starts around Bragg Creek and takes you down past Turner Valley, Black Diamond, Okotoks, High River, Longview, and down towards Pincher Creek. You’ll pass a lot of stunning scenery and historical sites such as the Bar U Ranch National Historic Site as well as a number of Western-style towns before winding up in the Rocky Mountains such as the Crowsnest Pass and Waterton Lakes. If you’re not wanting to continue into the USA, you could return to Calgary via Highway 2, stopping to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Head-Smashed-in-Buffalo-Jump .

Best time to go: This is one of the best road trips from Calgary and is best done between May and October.

Banff to Vancouver via the Trans-Canada Highway

While the Trans-Canada Highway can take you across the entire country, the most beautiful part, in our opinion, is from Calgary to Vancouver . After just an hour or so, you’ll arrive in Banff with nothing but gorgeous scenery for the remainder of the drive. This 900-kilometre slice of the Trans-Canada takes you through Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Mount Revelstoke National Park, Glacier National Park of Canada, and finally into Vancouver, which is nestled next to the Pacific Ocean. While this drive can be done in one very long 12-hour day, you’ll obviously want to take as long as possible to make use of the incredible national parks you’ll be driving through. There are also a number of side trips you could take, such as highway 93 down into Radium Hot Springs, and Highway 97, which will take you down to Kelowna and the Okanagan Valley.

Tour Idea: Click here for a Smartphone Audio Driving Tour Offer .

Best time to go: This largely depends on what you aim to do. The safest time to go is during the warmer months when the highways are clear. However, if you’re into skiing, this is one of the best places in the world to shred powder, which is typically best between January and March.

For more tips on what to bring on a road trip, check out our Road Trip Essentials article.

Road Trip around the Okanagan Valley, BC

While the Okanagan Valley isn’t really known as a specific “road trip”, it is home to one of Canada’s most famous wine regions, a gastronomic hot spot, and beautiful Lake Okanagan. There are all sorts of beautiful towns to visit, such as Kelowna , Penticton, and Vernon. There are all sorts of award-winning wineries, farm-to-table restaurants, and sandy beaches as well. This also happens to be one of Canada’s warmest regions, which can hit 40 degrees Celcius in the summer months.

Best time to go:  June to September for the warmest temperatures. April, May, and October are also great and a bit cooler.

Sea to Sky Highway, BC

This is the shortest road trip mentioned in this article but a great one to take if you’re in the Vancouver area. The Sea to Sky Highway links Vancouver to Whistler, which are less than two hours apart, making this one of the most popular road trips from Vancouver. Driving along the coast, this is a great place to see the beautiful west coast. Popular stops include Whytecliff Park in West Vancouver, Shannon Falls, and the Britannia Mine Museum. There’s also the Sea-to-Sky Gondola, which provides unforgettable views and a suspension bridge and of course, Squamish and Whistler, which provide all sorts of adventurous activities. In addition, don’t forget to experience Vancouver whale watching while in the city as well as all the other fun things to do in Vancouver .

Tour Idea: Sea-to-Sky Gondola and Whistler Day Trip Tour .

Best time to go:  July to September is Vancouver’s dry season, but if the rain doesn’t bother you, almost any time of year is good. If you’re into skiing or snowboarding, January to March is best.

Vancouver Island, BC

Vancouver Island is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in Canada and is home to some of the best things to do in British Columbia . Not only does it have one of the mildest climates in the country, but it’s also home to a variety of landscapes, including rainforests, mountains, rugged coastlines, and scenic towns and cities, making it a great place for a BC road trip. It’s also home to beautiful gardens, epic hikes, surfing, scuba diving, and whale-watching tours. Two of the most popular places to visit include Victoria and Tofino, which are on opposite sides of the island. While driving between the two, don’t forget to stop at Cathedral Grove to marvel at the massive trees as well as the many other parks and towns along the way. Finish the trip with one of Tofino’s stunning sunsets.

Best time to go: a West Coast road trip is best between March to May and September to November. Summer is great too but is very busy and expensive.

Before you go, check out our article about things to do in Victoria BC .

Dempster Highway, Yukon

As Canada’s only all-weather road that goes past the Arctic Circle, the Dempster Highway has become one of the most unique road trips in Canada. However, this is not your average highway. The Dempster Highway is a 700-kilometre extremely isolated dirt road with only one service station (they also offer accommodation and a restaurant) option along the way in Eagle Plains. This road trip takes a little more preparation than the others and will be much harder on your vehicle than any other road trip mentioned in this article. However, for those who choose this adventure, you’ll be rewarded with incredible arctic scenery and the chance to drive all the way to Tuktoyaktuk and the Arctic Ocean!

Best time to go: The best time to go would be in the warmer months between May and early October. The road is open year-round but the driving becomes much more dangerous in the winter. Spring will bring a lot of bugs, summer will bring a lot of tourists, and the fall has no bugs and beautiful fall foliage (hint: our favourite time is the fall). However, if you time your arrival in Inuvik for mid-July, you might be able to experience the Great Northern Arts Festival.

Georgian Bay Coastal Route, Ontario

Looking for one of the best road trips from Toronto? With more than 30,000 islands and over 2,000 kilometres (1,243 miles) of shoreline, the Georgian Bay Coastal Route loops around the Bay from Toronto and features some of Ontario’s most stunning scenery. Some of the most popular stops include the Bruce Peninsula, Parry Sound, and Killarney Provincial Park. There’s also beautiful Manitoulin Island, which is the world’s largest freshwater island, as well as Wasaga Beach, which is the world’s largest freshwater beach.

In addition, you could also extend the road trip and add in the Chatham-Kent Corridor, which is comprised of 23 small communities overlooking Lake Erie, Lake St. Clair, and the Thames River. Basically, it goes from Toronto to Amherstburg, which makes this one of the most popular road trips from Toronto. This route is popular with motorcyclists but is equally impressive on four wheels. Without a doubt, the most famous stop along the way is Niagara Falls Canada .

Best time to go: Summer is great but also busy. Shoulder season in late August to mid-September or in the spring from May to June is also great. Either way, this is one of the best things to do in Ontario .

Lake Superior Circle Tour, Ontario

While the entire Lake Superior Circle Tour takes you to both Canada and the USA, you could opt to do a half-circle tour and just stay on the Canadian side. Either way, it’s a beautiful drive and a really cool place to get out in nature. Lake Superior is absolutely massive and will make you feel as if you’re driving alongside the ocean. It’s home to some incredible scenery as well as some interesting history from the war between Canada and the USA. In fact, you can even go scuba diving to see shipwrecks. Popular stops include Sault Ste. Marie, Lake Superior Provincial Park, Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Ruby Lake Provincial Park, Pukaskwa National Park, and Thunder Bay. This is one of those places where you should plan to spend at least a few days and perhaps go camping, hiking, or enjoy some time on the lake. It’s a great road trip in Ontario for those who love the outdoors.

Best time to go: The warmer months from May to October. July and August will be the busiest. Before going, don’t forget to enjoy one of the many awesome things to do in Toronto !

Montreal to Gaspé Peninsula, Quebec

For those wanting to experience a world-class city like Montreal, followed by a scenic road trip, the Gaspe Peninsula is the one for you. This 9-hour trip takes you along the St. Lawrence River, from Montreal to Quebec City, and up to the Gaspé Peninsula. Known for its pine forests and looming cliffs, the Gaspé Peninsula is a stunning place to visit. Some of the highlights include visiting the pierced rock in Percé, spending some time at the Parc de la Gaspésie, and taking a boat tour to Bonaventure Island. Obviously, the cities of Quebec and Montreal aren’t so shabby either. This is a great road trip for those wanting to mix urban and rural fun.

Best time to go:  June to mid-September. Want more? Here are other things to do in Quebec as well as the top things to do in Montreal .

Prince Edward Island Coastal Drives

With so many beautiful coastal drives, the hardest thing might be picking the right one. Then again, you could always do all three. The tourism board has three road trips they recommend, which include the North Coast Coastal Drive, Central Coastal Drive, and Points East Coastal Drive. The North Coast will introduce you to its Mi’kmaq culture as well as some unique stops, including a potato museum and a college for the Highland arts. The Central Coastal Drive includes the Red Sands Shore and the Green Gables Shore region. This area is great to experience the beautiful red sand that PEI is famous for as well as the historical landmark of Anne of Green Gables. Lastly, there’s the Points East Coastal Drive, which is characterized by its parks, trails, and lighthouses. Either way, you’ll be treated to an array of stunning coastal views and delicious seafood along the way.

Best time to go:  The Eastern Canada road trip is best in the warmer months, as many attractions close in the winter. Want more ideas? Here are other things to do in Prince Edward Island .

Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

For those visiting the East Coast, don’t miss a scenic drive on Cabot Trail, which is easily one of the best things to do in Nova Scotia . Cradling the coast of Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, the Cabot Trail has become one of the most famous road trips in Canada and the most famous East Coast Canada road trip. At 300 kilometres in length, most of which hug the coastline, this road trip is perfect for those who love the ocean and incredible views. Traversing through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, there are all sorts of places to stop off and go for a hike as well. One of the most popular hikes is the Skyline Trail, which takes you up to the peak of the highlands for jaw-dropping views of the Atlantic Ocean. There are also some small communities of Celtic and Acadian descent, which are also home to many artisans. This is another road trip that only takes 3-4 hours to complete but is better done over one day or more.

Tour Idea: Click here to learn about a low-cost Smartphone Audio Driving Tour .

Best time to go: June to September is best for good weather but October is great to see the fall foliage.

Spending more time in Nova Scotia? Don’t forget to enjoy some of the best things to do in Halifax !

The Viking Trail and Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland

Known to locals as “The Rock”, Newfoundland is one of the most unique and beautiful provinces in Canada. It has its lively music, food, culture, and a really friendly laid-back charm. It’s also a great place for a Canada road trip thanks to Gros Morne National Park and the Viking Trail. In fact, there are many great road trips in Newfoundland but this one stands out as the best. If you’re looking for incredible scenery, wildlife, adventure, and ancient history, there’s no better place to go. It all starts with Gros Morne National Park, which is home to landlocked fjords, mountains, forests, barren cliffs, and the sea. It’s also home to the only place in the world where you can walk on the Earth’s mantle. There’s also loads of wildlife, including moose and caribou. Then there’s the Viking Trail , which takes you from Gros Morne National Park up to St. Anthony’s. This is the tip of Newfoundland and home to the thousand-year-old Viking settlement at L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site. Both Gros Morne and L’Anse aux Meadows are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Best time to go: June to early October is the best time for good weather. It’s also the only time L’Anse aux Meadows is open. For more, check out our article on the best things to do in Newfoundland

Road Trip Canada – Canada’s Trans-Canada Highway

The Trans-Canada Highway is the most epic and incredibly long road trip you can take in Canada. It stretches across the country through all 10 provinces. Starting in Victoria, it ends in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Some of the (many) highlights awaiting road-trippers include Vancouver, Banff National Park , the Alberta Badlands, Toronto, Ottawa, Quebec City, Montreal, Fundy National Park, and Gros Morne National Park, just to name a few. In fact, there are far too many highlights to include here. Just make sure you have a lot of time. Stopping only to sleep, this trip will take approximately 7 days. Personally, I’d want at least one month to do the whole journey from coast to coast. Add in an additional 2-4 weeks if you plan on going North to the Yukon and the Northwest Territories.

Best time to go:  April to October for optimal weather coast to coast. However, some parts of Canada still get snowstorms up until May.

We hope this list has inspired you to take a Canada road trip somewhere in this country, if not all the way across.

If you’re exploring Canada, we have many other articles you might enjoy as well, including:

• Things to Do in Drumheller
• Things to Do in Jasper
• Whale Watching Canada
• Things to Do in Calgary
• Camping in Alberta

Happy Travels!

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About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

March 18, 2020 at 5:18 am

Traveling by car can get you places which can be very difficult to reach by public transport or tour. It gives you the convenience of going your own way, in your own time, and it can often be cheaper than public transport alternatives, especially if traveling as a couple or a group. Many car rental services are giving comfortable rides at affordable rates Here, some top road trip ideas to inspire you : 1) The Trans-Canada Highway 2) Sea to Sky Country, British Columbia 3) Icefields Parkway, Alberta 4) Country Routes, Quebec 5) The Dempster Highway, Yukon and Northwest Territories 6) Coastal Drives, Prince Edward Island

I mentioned above places are when I visited last time in Canada by ReRyde ride share service. It is easy for me to travel all the places at affordable rates within the scheduled hours. I enjoyed my trip happily by seamless ride To get more information: https://www.reryde.com/

June 9, 2020 at 7:33 pm

I am especially interested in the Dempster Highway drive. Could you send me a guide please?

Mike Richins 325-660-8904

5058 Oaklawn Drive Abilene, Texas 79606

June 10, 2020 at 3:23 pm

We don’t have any guides to sell. We might create a digital one, but it wouldn’t be ready anytime soon.

June 24, 2020 at 8:56 pm

I’m looking for some good road trips as I’m RVing from Kingston, Ontario to Vancouver Island in September and taking a month to do it.

June 25, 2020 at 1:23 am

Oh awesome, that sounds like a great trip. So much to see along the way. Riding Mountain NP, Grasslands NP in Sask, Calgary, the Rocky Mountains, etc 🙂

September 9, 2020 at 6:37 pm

My wife and I are planning to drive from Surrey BC to London Ontario. Leaving October 9th, or 10th 2020. wish me luck. we are hoping for good weather.

September 9, 2020 at 7:16 pm

Very cool! That’s a big drive! Just going for fun?

January 30, 2021 at 8:32 pm

There is the Northern Woods and Water Highway road trip that is the furthest North people can travel east west in Canada. See the website http://www.NWWR.ca As an Association we promote a different view of the prairies. It can be connected with the TransCanada or Yellowhead for a circle tour of Western Canada from Winnipeg to Vancouver and return. Get on anywhere and experience woods, water and wildlife.

February 1, 2021 at 3:56 pm

Very cool! Thanks for sharing! Are you like a Tourism Board for the area? We’d love to feature this one day on the channel

April 28, 2021 at 5:12 pm

just got some new wheels so anxious to hit the road….when we can once again do that! thanks for the great ideas!

April 3, 2023 at 9:01 pm

Do you have suggestions for renting a car that would allow you to rent the car on the west coast and leave it on the east coast?

April 4, 2023 at 1:51 pm

Not really. Some do allow that though for a fee. Sometimes you can book it this way through a site like Rentalcars.com, Expedia, etc.

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Canada Road Trip Planning + 12 Epic Itinerary Ideas

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Canada is filled with stunning landscapes and driving through provinces and national parks is the best way to explore this massive country (by area). We will share an epic Canada Road Trip Planning Guide here, packed with ready-made itineraries to follow.

Table of Contents

Canada Road Trip Planning Guide

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Decide where you want to go in Canada

So, your first step is to make a bucket list of places you want to see or the route you wish to embark on for your Canada road trip. Being a diverse country of landscapes, terrain, and 4 different time zones, it might be a tough choice deciding on where to do. You can browse our Canada Destinations list, or use one of the itineraries mentioned below to get started!

What to see on your Canadian Road Trips?

It all depends on your travel style. There are mountains and pristine lakes in western Canada, pretty central coastal drives in the Maritimes, chasing Northern Lights in the Northwest Territories, or specific attractions like Toronto’s skyline/Niagara Falls, Gros Morne National park in Newfoundland to check out fjords, also a UNESCO world heritage site to polar bears in Manitoba. 

So you see there is tons of explore in Canada, just take it slow, stop along the way to make the most of your visit. Also give yourself enough time to hike, eat and drive.

Budget for your Canada road trip should be as follows 

• National Park Fees: $20 CAD per vehicles ($15.50 USD)
• City Attractions: Many museums have entry fees start at $7.99 CAD ($6.20). CN Tower or any type of observation towers in major cities, starts at $30 CAD ($23 USD)
• Food : Minimum $30 CAD ($23 USD)

When are you planning to travel for your road trip?

Whether it is a city-bound road trip or a journey through our national/provincial parks, it is important to make note of the seasons. Canada experiences all four seasons, and each season is beautiful in its own unique way. 

• Summer – Summers are a great time to embark on a road trip. We recommend choosing the country-side to escape the crowds . If you are hitting the popular national parks like Banff (from Calgary or Edmonton), ensure you start early to beat the traffic rush.
• Winter – Driving in winters can be tricky. Ensure you follow provincial winter driving regulations. Also add additional travel time due to the road conditions, poor visibility, etc. on certain routes. 
• Spring and fall – These are off season months in Canada. Fall is our favorite time to visit as the weather is still warm, and attractions not too crowded. Spring is a tricky situation for visiting Parks, as many of the sightseeing spots may not be open. Finding accommodation in cities and small towns this time will be easy, minus fewer crowds.

Where to stay on a Canada road trip?

When you are road tripping in Canada, there are tons of options for accommodation.

• Hotels, Airbnbs & Lodges : You can book a hotel, Airbnb, lodge, or a cabin for your accommodation in Canada. Book them ahead of time, especially during peak seasons. 
• RV & Campervan : One of the popular ways to explore national parks in Canada is on a campervan or an RV, and save money on hotel accommodation. It is also a nicer alternative if you do not own a lot of camping gear, and planning to explore on the go. 
• Camping : If you are planning to camp overnight, ensure you reserve camp-sites when bookings open for the season. You do not need to reserve for day campsites (like picnics as part of your road trip), especially in provincial parks. 

Pin the spots on Google Maps

Use Google Maps plan and plot your road trip itinerary. And don’t forget to download offline maps on your phone, so that you can access that from the car. 

Important Driving Tips in Canada Highway & Parks

• Carry your driver’s license (Canadian, US or International).
• Must be at least 21 years of age to rent a vehicle.
• The most common cars on the road in Canada are left-hand drive vehicles, and cars are driven on the right side of the road.
• Canada uses kilometres and metres to measure the distance (unlike miles used in the USA)
• The typical speed limit in most provinces is 100 km/h (62 mph) or 110 km/h (68 mph). 
• When you are driving to national parks speed limits will differ, depending on major routes (90 km/hr max.) and secondary routes (60 km/hr max.)
• Gas/Mileage: 8.9 litres of gasoline per 100 kilometres (62 miles)
• Be mindful of wildlife corridors and posted wildlife signs along the highways

What to pack on a road trip in Canada?

Here is a list of items to pack for your road trip in Canada!

• Clothes & Comfortable shoes – Comfortable shoes are a must, they are helpful while you are behind the wheel or while taking rest stops
• Warm clothes (for winter) – While driving in Canadian winters, don’t forget warm clothing
• Hand warmers are great little items to keep inside the car
• Travel Mug – Coffee and tea lovers, pack your travel mug, and refill it on the go!
• Water bottle – Super important, carry your water bottle. Stay hydrated!
• Healthy snacks – LOVE this care package , and they are healthy snacks to carry on your road trip. Munch them if you are hungry, whilst feeling light!
• Medications
• Flashlight – Super handy if you are camping or even driving overnight
• Emergency car kit – An emergency car kit is essential should things happen on the road. You can create one from scratch or buy one pre-pack from Amazon . 
• Emergency first aid kit – Check the first aid kit inside the car (check for expiry dates). If you don’t have one, here is one that you can buy from Amazon.  
• Dashboard mount for phone or GPS – Use a dash mount to keep your phone or GPS for navigation. 
• GPS or navigation system – Don’t forget navigation systems or Google maps (offline) on your phone. Prepare it with your routes prior to your trip. It is also important to keep TomToms (or any navigation system) updated. 
• Charging cables – Unless your car has cable-free charging, it is important to pack one for your road trip. We do have wireless charging in our car, but it can only charge one at a time, so we also carry charging cables (to charge the second phone and to charge inside the hotel). Buy yours here
• Playlist – No road trip is complete without an amazing playlist.
• Cell-phone – Don’t forget your cell-phone. Stay connected with family, store the hotel or campsite contact information, plus roadside assistance number for emergencies. 
• Car freshener
• Road trip games – License plate, sing-along, card games (for kids)
• Travel insurance – Car insurance is essential, so is travel insurance if you are traveling from overseas. For the car, you can also secure insurance with the rental company when you pick up the vehicle. 

12 Canada Road Trip Itinerary Ideas

Canadian rockies road trip itinerary, alberta .

• Number of days – 10 to 14 days
• Route –  Edmonton – Jasper National Park – Icefields Parkway to Lake Louise – Banff National Park – Calgary  (Alberta) 

This Canadian Rockies itinerary will allow you to explore all the best of the mountains and cities in Alberta. It covers the capital city, the largest city in Alberta, two national parks in the Canadian Rockies (Jasper being is the largest one), visit the pretty Lake Louise, explore our provincial parks at Pembina, and also check out small Prairie (Edson, Entwhistle) and mountain towns (Banff, Jasper) in one single trip.

A fast paced version of this road trip itinerary can be done in 10 days. But 2 weeks will be perfect! 

Fly to Edmonton , pick up a rental car, and explore the capital city of Alberta. Visit the Legislature Grounds and the neighborhood of Strathcona. (If you have time on your hands, visit Elk Island National Park, located about 50 minutes away from the city, known for bison conservation and is a dark sky preserve). Spend one full day in Edmonton to experience the culinary and city centre delights, along with museums and art galleries. 

From Edmonton, drive to Jasper National Park (it takes 4 hours). Stop by the small Prairie towns of Edson, Entwhistle, or Pembina Provincial Park for a picnic. You will arrive in Jasper town by evening. Stay at the Pocahontas Cabin for the night. 

Spend 2-3 days in Jasper . Hit trails, Pyramid and Patricia lakes, Athabasca falls, soak in mountain views, eat, and visit a local brewery. 

From Jasper, head to Lake Louise, via the Icefields Parkway (with a quick stop at Sunwapta Falls). Non stop drive is 2.75 hours. You can also add Athabasca Glacier Adventure to your road trip itinerary and stay in Lake Louise for the night. 

Set aside 8-10 hours to explore Lake Louise , and then head to Banff in the evening (50 minute drive). 

Spend 3-4 days in Banff National Park . There are tons to see and do here, from lakes – Vermillion, Two Jack Lake, Minnewanke, to hiking trails , exploring Banff Avenue, Cave & Basin Site, Cascade Gardens, Minnewanka Lake Cruise, and Johnston Canyon.  Stay at Elk + Avenue Hotel .

After exploring Banff, head to Calgary, and spend one day or two. Explore downtown city highlights like the Calgary Tower, wander the Stephen Ave Walk, visit Calgary Fort, Heritage Village, etc. 

Drop off your car rental at Calgary International Airport, and fly back home!

Icefields Parkway, Alberta 

• Number of Days – It is possible to drive the Icefields Parkway in 2.5 hours if you don’t get out of your car, but it would be a travesty not to take your time to enjoy the sights along the way.
• Route – Lake Louise to Jasper in the province of Alberta passing through Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.

One of the most famous road trips in Canada is the Icefields Parkway , which is a 230km (144 miles) journey through some of the country’s most magnificent landscapes. With vistas of mountains, valleys, glaciers, rocky cliffs, forests, and lakes, there is a lot to see along the way.

Take a tip and start early in the morning to avoid traffic, and you will enjoy the experience so much more if you are not rushed. The Icefields Parkway has so many incredible places that you will want to explore. 

Early morning is a good time to spot wildlife that usually make an appearance when you

least expect. When you’re driving, keep your eyes peeled for bears, deer, elk, moose and bighorn sheep. Depending on what you might see by the side of the road, you may need extra time to linger and take photographs.

On your first road trip along the Icefields Parkway, make sure you allow time to see Columbia

Icefield, which is some of the largest glaciers outside the Arctic Circle, or“fields of ice” straddle and are the largest south of the Arctic Circle. 

Another awe-inspiring attraction is the Glacier SkyWalk, where you can walk on a glass-floored platform 280 metres (918 feet) above the stunning Sunwapta Valley.

Besides glaciers, this Canadian road trip is also known for its beautiful lakes. The two most famous ones are Bow Lake, which is the best place to gaze at the Crowfoot Glacier, and Peyto Lake, which is a must-do to fill your Instagram stream with stunning photos. Also, visit Sunwapta and Athabasca Falls; both are places of natural beauty.

Stay at Mountaineer Lodge in Lake Louise or the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise .

By Christina from Travel2Next

Sea to Sky highway – Vancouver to Whistler

• Number of days – 2 days
• Route – Start in Vancouver, stop in Squamish to Whistler (British Columbia)

The Sea to Sky highway is one of the most scenic roads in Canada. Also known as Highway 99, the section that connects Vancouver to Whistler is known as the Sea to Sky . 

Although the total journey time from Vancouver to Whistler is just 2 hours, there’s plenty to see and do along the way as well as further afield. This road trip can be amended for families or adrenaline seekers. While it’s easy to drive from Vancouver to Whistler in a day, splitting it up into several days is recommended. 

After leaving Vancouver , one of the first points of interest in Whytecliff Park, this is somewhat of a hidden gem in Vancouver and a nice scenic spot to stretch the legs. When the tide is low you can walk across the rocks to Whytecliff Islet.

Your drive along the Sea to Sky highway will then bring you through the town of Lions Bay and Britannia Beach. Here is where you’ll find Porteau Cove Provincial Park and the Britannia Mine Museum, which is a great stop for families. 

Soon after Britannia Beach is the town of Squamish, many people bypass this town but it’s definitely worth a night’s stay at least. There are so many amazing restaurants here, some of our favourites include the Wigan Pier for fish & chips and Sonny Chibas for Mexican and fried chicken. 

There are also several craft breweries here that are worth checking out. Squamish is famous for its hiking and rock climbing. The Chief is a granite monolith that towers above the town and is a bucket-list hike in the area. If you aren’t feeling up to hiking, you can take a ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola. 

The town of Whistler is usually people’s main destination when taking this route. This mountain town is home to Whistler Blackcomb ski resort and bike park. There are tons of things to do for every season in Whistler. Although it’s famous for skiing, other activities include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, dog sledding and hiking and biking in the summer. 

Nita Lake Lodge is our favorite hotel in Whistler , it’s the only lakefront hotel in the resort town. It’s far enough away from the main village that you’ll get lots of peace and quiet here. 

There is plenty to see and do further afield too! Less people visit Pemberton and Lillooet but they are just as beautiful and the rest of Highway 99. Joffre Lakes is one of BC’s most beautiful hikes in BC. 

Seton Lake near Lillooet is one of our favourite places in all of Canada, and the short hike to the lookout is breathtaking! 

By Rachel from A City Girl Outside

Vancouver – Kelowna – Banff

• Number of days – 2+
• Route – Starting in Vancouver British Columbia to Kelowna, BC to Banff National Park, Alberta

While driving from Vancouver to Banff is technically possible in one day, a stop in Kelowna not only breaks up the trip, it’s also more scenic. The mountainous Highway 3 is the best way to get to Kelowna in terms of scenery.

In Kelowna , be sure to enjoy the waterfront parks, hiking in the hills outside of town, shopping around Bernard Ave, and wine tasting at local vineyards.  If staying overnight in Kelowna, treat yourself to The Royal Kelowna hotel for views of the water and proximity to downtown and the cultural district.

From there, you can take the spectacular drive through Glacier and Yoho to Banff on Highway 1. The biggest highlight on this leg is simply looking out your window!

Two points of interest along the way are quite close to each other: Three Valley Gap and the town of Revelstoke. Three Valley Gap is a big hotel on the shore of a large lake, visible from the highway. There is a bit of a ghost town to visit and just one restaurant, inside the hotel.

For more dining options and amenities, make your next stop 20 minutes down the highway, in the little town of Revelstoke. Whether it’s to stay the night or even just to grab a bite to eat, it’s a nice place to visit.

Next, you’ll pass through Glacier and Yoho National Parks , both of which are worthwhile places to visit for hiking, camping, scenic drives, and more.

Finally, saving the best for last, you’ll arrive in Banff National Park. Take the tram to scenic overlooks, hike to a tea house, admire the emerald Lake Louise, bike, look for wildlife, camp, or relax at an upscale inn. From Banff, you can take countless scenic drives to extend your road trip in different directions, like Yoho or Jasper National Parks. This is a true outdoor wonderland and worth staying for several nights.

By Michelle from Intentional Travelers

Nanaimo to Tofino, British Columbia

• Number of Days – 1
• Route – Nanaimo to Tofino, British Columbia

While not the longest by any means, driving from Nanaimo to Tofino on British Columbia’s Vancouver Island is one to add to your to-do list!

Tofino is still a hidden gem, even for many Canadians, and the stops along the way make it the perfect West Coast road trip.

There is only one main road that takes visitors from Nanaimo to Tofino (HWY BC4). While summer is traditionally Tofino’s high season, this rugged part of Canada sees storm watchers venture to the coast to watch the full power of the Pacific Ocean hitting land.

Along the 3 hour route, there are a few essential stops. Coombs is a little detour, but it’s popular market and goats on the roof are a delight for all visitors. 

Cathedral Grove in MacMillan Provincial Park is right along the route. You will literally drive through an amazing old growth forest right on the highway. If you stop at Cathedral Grove, you will find a small parking area and a trail that takes about 30 minutes to see some of the oldest trees in British Columbia.

Ucluelet is the last stop you should make, before the final stretch to Tofino.  Take the time to walk the Wild Pacific Loop. It is less than 30 minutes from Ucluelet to Tofino, you can always add this to a day trip activity while you stay in Tofino. 

The last stretch of drive will bring you past Pacific Rim National Park where the strong Pacific Ocean waves crash on the sandy beaches. There are plenty of places to stop along the way if you want to take a closer look. Tofino is home to stunning sandy beaches, you will have plenty of time to enjoy the waves and the sand.

Two of the best places to stay are Pacific Sands Beach Resort and Long Beach Lodge . Both offer beachfront accommodations and are perfect for couples and families. 

By Lindsay from Uncovering British Columbia

Dawson City (Yukon) to Tuktoyaktuk (North West Territories) 

• Number of days – Minimum 3 days one way
• Route – Dawson City (Yukon) to Tuktoyaktuk (North West Territories) 

Starting in the historic Klondike Gold Rush town of Dawson City and ending on the edge of the Arctic Ocean, this Canadian road trip is a must do for adventurous travelers. The main part of the route (737km of 875km total) follows the Dempster Highway , a legendary rough dirt road traversing tundra and limitless wilderness. 

The Dempster is the only road in Canada to cross the Arctic Circle. Consequently, travelers who visit in summer will be accompanied by the Midnight Sun (24 hours of daylight). The long days allow for endless exploration. It’s disorienting yet exhilarating and ensures this road trip experience to be like no other in Canada! 

Tombstone Territorial Park, located around 110km from Dawson City, is a real highlight. Here, the expansive landscape is backdropped by impossibly jagged mountain peaks. Be sure to stop at the interpretive centre before heading out onto one of the established hiking trails. Keep your eyes peeled for some of the local residents, including grizzly bears, moose, caribou, porcupine and black foxes. 

Epic as this road trip may be, there is some caution needed. This is a truly wild area, with almost zero phone signal along the entire route. The elevated dirt road is rough in places and can become very slippery after rain. A good spare tire is absolutely essential as is a puncture repair kit, air compressor and jack. Most importantly, the drive should not be rushed. 

Facilities are few and far between (all part of the adventure!) but one of the most convenient places to stop on this road trip is Eagle Plains. 

There is a campground, hotel, gas station, and restaurant here. Inuvik has the biggest choice of services and places to stay, with the Arctic Chalet being a top choice. While in town, be sure to check out the Igloo Church and Community Greenhouse (built in an old ice rink), 

Tuktoyaktuk is your final destination; a place where you can dip your toes in the freezing Arctic Ocean and reflect on your incredible journey through Canada’s northern wilderness!

By Gemma from Off Track Travel

Saskatchewan Road Trip 

• Number of Days – 5-6 
• Route : Regina to Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park (Centre Block) 

Saskatchewan often isn’t the first place that comes to mind when planning a Canada road trip . Most people head straight to the Rocky Mountains, Vancouver Island, or Niagara Falls. While these destinations are all very much worth a visit, so is Saskatchewan!  

This underrated Canadian province features two beautiful National Parks, several Provincial Parks, cute little towns and rolling hills covered in rippling grain as far as the eye can see. If that’s not enough, Saskatoon and Regina are two lively cities with a relaxed vibe, plenty of restaurants and lots of worthwhile sights. Plenty of reasons for a Saskatchewan road trip ! 

Start your road trip in Canada by exploring Regina, the capital city of Saskatchewan. Spend two days here and visit the Provincial Legislative Building, stroll around Wascana Lake, and learn about history in the Royal Saskatchewan Museum. A nice place to stay is the Ramada by Wyndham (Emerald Park). 

Hop in your car and drive to Grasslands National Park (West Block) in approximately 3.5hours. This National Park is a great place to see rare native wildlife such as the bison as well as an excellent stargazing location as there is very little light pollution. Hike the 70 Mile Butte Trail and take one of t 

After spending a day (or if time allows, two days) in Grasslands National Park, drive to Eastend and visit the T-Rex Discovery Center to marvel at one of the few T-rex skeletons ever found. Continue your road trip and drive to Cypress Hills Provincial Park.  

This Provincial Park is perfect for swimming, camping, and hiking. A must-do is visiting Bald Butte and Lookout Point. The views from both viewpoints are breathtaking, you can see for miles and will really come to appreciate the vastness of Saskatchewan.  

By Lotte from Phenomenal Globe Travel Blog 

Road Trip from Saskatoon (Saskatchewan) to Winnipeg (Manitoba)

• Route – Saskatoon – Yorkton – Langenburg – Russell – Portage La Prairie – Winnipeg

Saskatoon to Winnipeg takes about 8 hours 10 mins by car if you drive non-stop. Both cities are located in two Prairie provinces of Canada. Start from Saskatoon Saskatchewan, and pretty much along the way you will find small Prairie towns, mom & pop shops, cute barns, and farms.

Saskatoon is nicknamed as the ‘Paris of the Prairies’, due to the many bridges found here. From Saskatoon, make way for Yorkton (in about 3.50 hours). Yorkton also has a Western Development Museum, just like Saskatoon which is worth visiting. 

If you wish to stretch your legs, head to the York Lake Regional Park for a quick stroll. From Yorkton, arrive at Langenburg, and this is where you can break for lunch. 

Up next on the road trip is Russell, located about 15 km (9 miles) from the Saskatchewan border. The town is known for the Manitoba’s Beef and Barley Festival, which is held annually in October. 

From Russell, the next stop is Portage La Prairie (in 3 hours). In case you didn’t know the Prairies are home to the some of ‘world’s largest’ like Tomahawk (Cutknife, SK) or Easter Egg/Pysanka (Vegreville Alberta). So Portage La Prairie has the world’s Largest Coca-Cola Can. Don’t forget to stop by, and snap a few photos!

From here, Winnipeg is another hour’s drive. Spend 2 days in Winnipeg, exploring some of the iconic attractions like the pedestrian Esplanade Riel Bridge, named after the 1848 revolutionary Louis Riel. 

Wander the French part of Winnipeg – St Boniface. Eat out, and hang out at the city centre. The Forks is a must visit in the city. This site is a National Historic Site of Canada. 

Assiniboine Park also deserves a place in your itinerary. It is a beautiful park with tons of walking trails, river views, and more. Finally, visit the Royal Canadian Mint, and go on a guided tour to learn about coins, and maybe take some home with you!

East Coast City Delights – Toronto – Montreal – Quebec City

• Number of days – 3 days + 
• Route – Toronto – Montreal – Quebec City

This classic road trip starts in Toronto and travels through Eastern Ontario, Quebec, and New Brunswick, before ending in Halifax, NS. From start to finish, this road trip will take about 18 hours of straight driving. 

You could do it all at once, but you’d miss out on so many fantastic places! Instead, we’d recommend stopping a few times along the way, making this road trip into a 3 to the 5-day trip, and taking the time to explore a few places along the way. We will cover Toronto to Quebec City, as one road trip, followed up by Quebec City to Halifax (and of course you can combine both).

Beginning in Toronto, follow Hwy 401 east from Toronto until you reach the border of Quebec and it becomes Autoroute 20. Stay overnight in Montreal – the Old Town is much more scenic, but the downtown section has more dining options. Alternatively, you can pass through Montreal and continue another 2.5 hours to Quebec City.

On day 2, drive Hwy 40 along the north shore of the St. Lawrence, or 20E/TransCanada via the south shore. Either way the drive is close to 3 hours. Arrive in Quebec City mid afternoon, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore the Old Town, marvel at the Chateau Frontenac and soak up the European feel of the city. 

There are plenty of hotels to choose from – you can splurge on a stay at the Fairmont Le Chateau Frontenac or choose more moderate options like the Quebec City Marriott Downtown .  

By Erin from Three is Us

Quebec City to Gaspésie

• Number of days – 5 – 7 days  (return)
• Route – Quebec City – Forillon National Park – Gaspe – Perce Village – Matapedia – Quebec City

One of the epic Canadian road trips is the one around Gaspesie . Gaspesie is a peninsula in the province of Quebec. It’s a loop route that starts in Quebec City and also ends there. You’ll need about 5-7 days to get the most of the area.

Set out from Quebec City early in the morning and take the QC- 132 road towards the east. Enjoy the ride along the picturesque coast, make frequent stops at viewpoints. In the evening you should reach Forillon National Park where you stay overnight.

Spend the next day hiking in the park. There are many trails to choose from, so pick the ones suitable for your level of fitness. The park administration will provide you with a map. Move to the town of Gaspe, where you’ll spend the night and the next day exploring local sights and museums such as Haldimand Beach, Gaspesie Museum, and Micmac Museum.

The next stop is in Perce Village where you can catch a boat to Bonaventure Island which is the main local attraction. This small uninhabited island is home to the largest Atlantic seabird colony in North America. After hiking on the island, check out Perce Village and try some local food and beer.

From this point, the road trip will return to Quebec City, but around the southern shore. The south offers amazing viewpoints, several lighthouses, Micmac village, and a beautiful Philomene Waterfall. The one-stop you shouldn’t miss is the Miguasha National Park that is also a UNESCO World site for its valuable fossil site and museum.

In Matapedia, take the QC-132 towards the north. Before you reach Quebec City, the sights worth seeing are Pointe-au-Pere Lighthouse and Jardin de Metis Botanical Garden. Do stop in one of the local ‘fromagerie’ to buy some delicious cheese sorts.

By Slavka from On2Continents

Quebec City – Fredericton to Moncton, via Hopewell Rocks to Halifax

• Number of days – 4 days + 
• Route – Quebec City – Fredericton to Moncton, via Hopewell Rocks – 251km,  Moncton to Halifax – 260km

You can start this road trip from Toronto , and follow the itinerary above to stop in Montreal and Quebec City. From Quebec City, follow the TransCanada Hwy north along the St. Lawrence River to Rivière-du-Loup, then head south-east to New Brunswick. 

*Note* As you cross the border into New Brunswick, the time changes and clocks go back an hour. 

Although there isn’t much to see in Edmundston, if you prefer a shorter drive today or just in need of a rest and stretch break, it is a good stopping point around 3 hours from Quebec City. 

If you prefer to keep on driving, Fredericton is another 3 hours south. Along the way, be sure to stop for a quick visit to Grand Falls about 45 minutes south of Edmunston and farther south, the Covered Bridge in Hartland. Continue on to Fredericton where you’ll stay the night.   

Continue your drive through New Brunswick and be sure to take a slight detour off of the Trans Canada Highway south to the Hopewell Rocks.

Just an hour south of Moncton, the Hopewell Rocks are a remarkable place to experience the highest tides in the world! Happening twice a day, be sure to check the tide tables to be aware of high and low tides. 

The final stretch of this road trip heads into Nova Scotia. After crossing the border, it’s about 2 hours to Halifax. **There is a toll on this portion of the highway. It’s approximately $4 CAD. 

An hour after the border lies the town of Truro, which is a good spot to stop, have a rest and if the timing is right, to watch the twice daily tidal bore. If you’re adventurous, try Tidal Bore Rafting on the Shubenacadie River, close to Truro. 

Another hour’s drive and you’re in Halifax –  stay here for a few days in Halifax, and enjoy the East Coast. While you’re in Halifax, be sure to visit Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, Halifax Waterfront, and Dartmouth.

There are many hotels to choose from, whether you’re looking for something close to the waterfront (which are more expensive) or something a little further away. Clayton Park, just off Hwy 102 is a good option, with hotels such as Coastal Inns and Future Inns – both highly recommended from our family!

Maritimes Magic: Fundy Coastal drive from Campobello Island (NB) to the Confederation Bridge (PEI) 

• Number of days – 5 days
• Route – New Brunswick and the Fundy Coastal drive from Campobello Island to the Confederation Bridge at Prince Edward Island (PEI)

Coastal New Brunswick and the Fundy Coastal drive from Campobello Island to the Confederation Bridge at Prince Edward Island makes for a scenic and less traveled area of Canada. In five days, you can cover the highlights in the Maritimes , along with the iconic Hopewell Rocks.

Start from Campobello Island, the only International Park in the world and summer home of the U.S. President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. 

On day 2 head to Saint Andrews. An old fishing village, on the Bay of Fundy, where the most dramatic tides in the world shift daily, Saint Andrews has lots of restaurants and cute shops. It is also a great take-off spot for whale watching and kayaking trips. Don’t miss the Huntsman Marine Science Center and Kingsbrae Gardens.

On day 3 and 4, drive to Saint John and explore the city. Stay at the St. John Hotel & Suites . A must-see is The Reversing Falls, where the Bay of Fundy tides overtake the flow of the Saint John River, a UNESCO GeoPark. Then, make the quick 3-minute drive to Carleton Martello Tower located high on a hill overlooking the Bay of Fundy.

The New Brunswick Museum is a great way to get some history on the area with exhibits on the region’s lumber, shipbuilding, farming industries.

City Market of Saint John is a vibrant and bustling market with stalls of fresh produce, meat, seafood, even local art and souvenirs, and restaurants. 

Another must-see destination, Hopewell Rocks is a unique landscape, where you can walk along the ocean floor and see the towering sandstone sculptures with trees on top thanks to the Bay of Fundy’s dramatic tides

From there, you can continue winding along the Bay of Fundy Highway to 15E. Crossing the Confederation Bridge is an adventure in and of itself — it is the longest bridge (8 mi/12.9 KM) that crosses ice-covered waters in the world.

By Lori from Maps, Memories and Motherhood

Cape Breton Highlands National Park: Cabot Trail East Coastal Drive

• Number of days – 3+ days
• Route – Halifax – Cape Breton Island along the Cabot Trail

The Cabot Trail is a scenic driving route on the island of Cape Breton in Nova Scotia. Cape Breton is the largest island, and is home to 14% of the population. 

Cabot Trail offers one of the best scenic views along Canada’s Atlantic Coast. Cabot Trail is over 300 km, and can be easily completed in one day. However, we recommend stopping along the way to make the most of your trip, including exploring the great outdoors of Cape Breton Highlands National Park and soaking in the views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. 

You can start from Halifax (fly there), and then head towards the Cabot Trail (3.50 hours).  Do make a stop at the Highland Village. This village has re-created the life of Gaelic settlers in Cape Breton and is beautifully set on the Bras d’Or lake. 

Set a day aside for Cape Breton Highlands National Park. Camp, picnic or go on a hike. Check out the Cape Breton Highlands Lookout, and capture sunset on Skyline Trail Hike. 

Whale watching is popular here, so seafood including lobster treats! Being a coastal drive, do stop at the Margaree Harbour or Enragee Point Lighthouse. 

Final Thoughts on Road Trips in Canada

You see, it is impossible to squeeze everything in Canada on a single trip (be it week or 2 weeks long). But you can always come back, and check off these wonderful road trips from your Canada bucket list. 

Pick one that speaks to you the most – mountains, cities or culture, or food – pick your car rental (check gas, your licences, insurance) – and let’s go!

Where will you head to first? 

Pin: 12 Canada Road Trips to take this year: Explore Canada by road trips

Mayuri Kashyap is an Indian Canadian traveler, writer and photographer based in Alberta. She moved to Toronto as a student in 2009, and has been calling Canada home ever since. She started the blog - Canada Crossroads - to share her travel and living experiences in the Great White North!

A History graduate and an MBA, Mayuri is a destinations marketing expert. She loves traveling with her husband, Salil and soaking in experiences across Canada, India and Europe.

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Canada Road Trip: A One Month Suggested Itinerary

Spanning 9,306km (5,780 miles) and six time zones, Canada is the second-largest country in the world. It’s home to rugged coastlines, vast prairies, dense boreal forests, towering mountain ranges, and upwards of two million lakes.

But what makes Canada special is its people. It’s a place that embraces its diversity and that encourages people to be friendly, caring, and polite.

Due to its large size, though, traveling across Canada can be a little challenging. Domestic flights are prohibitively expensive due to low competition and, outside of the eastern part, trains don’t go many places.

That means if you really want to see Canada, you need to drive.

To help you explore this amazing country, Chris Oldfield, our Canadian team member , helped create this suggested itinerary for a one-month road trip. It’s packed, since you’ve got a lot of ground to cover. However, it’s also not too rushed (though you can easily extend this out to six or eight weeks as well).

(Note: Canada is huge, and there are many routes and itineraries you can take. This one is by no means comprehensive but instead meant to give you a good overview and introduction to the main cities and sights.)  

Days 1-3: Vancouver, BC

It’s also the third-largest city in Canada, so there’s plenty to see and do while you’re here. There’s an amazing foodie scene here too.

Here are a few suggestions to help you start your trip off right:

• Visit Granville Island – Granville Island is a shopping district in the middle of the city. It’s also a hub for foodies. Explore the public market, grab a beer at Granville Island Brewing Company, and wander the cool shops. There are also galleries, some performing arts venues, and all kinds of events and festivals held here too!
• Enjoy the view from Grouse Mountain – Ride the gondola to the top, where you can enjoy the view over the metropolis and mountains. There are lots of trails for hiking in the summer and sections for skiing and snowboarding in the winter. You can also hike to the top (which takes 1.5–2 hours) and then take the gondola down for just $15 CAD.
• Relax in Stanley Park – Located in the heart of the city, this enormous park (a 400-hectare natural rain forest) is a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown. Its waterfront path right on the Pacific is a nice place to go for a stroll, swim, or bike ride. There are also sports fields here and over 20km of trails.
• Walk the Capilano Suspension Bridge – This 450-foot long suspension bridge stands 230 feet high and offers views of the surrounding forests and trails. I don’t love heights, but it’s worth it for the view! Tickets are $54 CAD.

For more suggestions, here’s a detailed list of things to see and do in Vancouver .

Where to Stay

• Cambie Hostel Gastown – Located in the historic Gastown district, this hostel has comfortable beds, a small common room for hanging out, and access to The Cambie, the hostel’s bar.
• HI Vancouver Downtown – Tucked into a quieter part of town, HI Vancouver Downtown is in a good location for exploring the popular Granville and Davie Streets, which offer plenty of cafés, bars, clubs, restaurants, and shopping.
• Samesun Vancouver – With cozy pod beds, clean bathrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and free breakfast (including eggs and hot cereal), this is my favorite hostel in the city.

Here is my complete hostel list with even more suggestions!  

Day 4-5: Whistler, BC

In the summer, there are tons of outdoor activities to enjoy such as hiking, swimming, cycling, zip-lining, and bear watching. There’s also a 4.4km peak-to-peak gondola where you can enjoy the stunning mountain vistas that envelop the region.

Where to Stay Airbnb and Booking.com will be your best choices here. Book in advance, as they get booked fast!  

Days 6-8: Banff National Park, AB

Banff is home to two of Canada’s most picturesque (and most Instagrammed) locations: Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. They are incredibly popular sights, so get there early to beat the crowds.

Beyond snapping some Insta-worthy shots, there is plenty of hiking to enjoy in the surrounding mountains. It’s a beautiful place to relax in a rustic lodge or cabin or go camping (you can rent camping gear if you don’t have any).

Be sure to spend some time in the town of Banff as well. It’s a touristy resort town but it’s also super quaint and charming.

Where to Stay Airbnb will be your best option if you’re on a budget. If you feel like splurging on a luxury resort or lodge, use Booking.com .

For camping, you can use this government website to book a site in the park.

Note : If you have more than a month for your trip, consider a stop in Jasper National Park before heading to Banff. It’s an extra nine-hour drive from Whistler but the natural beauty here is jaw-dropping (seriously, google “Jasper National Park” — it’s stunning!).  

Days 9-10: Calgary, AB

Here are a few things to see and do during your visit:

• Attend the Calgary Stampede – The Calgary Stampede is an annual rodeo. Expect chuckwagon races, bull riding, concerts, carnival rides, and endless fair food (deep-fried butter, anyone?). Tickets start at $18 CAD.
• Visit Fish Creek Provincial Park – Fish Creek sits along the Bow River and is perfect for walking, cycling, and rollerblading. In the summer, people come here to fish, swim, and barbecue. It’s a fun, relaxing place to get some exercise and enjoy the weather.
• Go brewery-hopping – Calgary has a huge number of brewpubs and small craft breweries. Citizen Brewing Company, Cold Garden Beverage Company, and Big Rock are some of my favorites. You can take brewery tours for around $25 CAD or do a brewery tour for around $90 CAD.
• Take in the view from Calgary Tower – Built in 1967, the Calgary Tower commemorates Canada’s Centennial. From the top, it offers an uninterrupted view of the Rocky Mountains. The observation deck has a glass floor that adds an extra thrill to your visit (if you like heights, that is). Tickets are $18 CAD.

For more suggestions, check out my comprehensive free guide to Calgary!

• HI Calgary City Centre – This is the best hostel in the city. It’s newly renovated, has a full-equipped kitchen, includes towels, and the beds are comfy.

If the hostel is booked, use Airbnb . Be sure to book in advance if you’ll be here for the Stampede.  

Days 11-12: Regina, SK

Home to under 240,000 people, Regina is a small city that’s worth a quick visit. Here are some suggested things to see and do while you’re here:

• Visit the Royal Saskatchewan Museum – This natural history museum was opened in 1906 and is home to the world’s largest T. rex cast as well as an insightful exhibition on Canada’s First Nations. It’s an educational place to visit if you’re traveling with kids.
• Watch the Roughriders – The CFL (Canada’s answer to the NFL) is popular here as Regina is home to one of the league’s best teams, the Roughriders. If you’re visiting between June and November, catch a game at Mosaic Stadium and get rowdy with the locals! Tickets start at $32 CAD.
• Tour the Legislative Building – The Saskatchewan Legislative Building was built in 1912. It’s a National Historic Site and Heritage Property and is home to one of the tables used by the Fathers of Confederation when they drew up their plans to create a united Canada. Take a guided tour (they last around 30 minutes) and learn about the province’s history.

Where to Stay Airbnb and Booking.com will be your best choices here, depending on your budget and what kind of accommodation you’re looking for.  

Days 13-14: Winnipeg, MB

While it’s known for its harsh winters, Winnipeg has been working hard to evolve into a world-class city. Slowly but surely, it’s succeeding. Stop by for a day or two and check out some of the city’s best sights:

• See the Canadian Museum for Human Rights – This museum highlights the crises and evolution of human rights in Canada and around the globe. Opened in 2008, it’s the only national museum outside of Ottawa.
• Watch the Blue Bombers – For more CFL action, catch a Blue Bombers game. The team was founded in 1930 and is one of the best in the league.
• Explore the Forks National Historic Site – This urban park is a relaxing place to read or have a picnic. At the intersection of two rivers, it was historically significant for trade between indigenous people and Europeans, with human settlement going back as far as 6,000 years.
• Visit the Royal Canadian Mint – If you’re a collector or are just curious how coins are made, stop by the mint. It’s made over 55 billion coins for 75 different countries. Over 1,000 coins are made every second here! Tours are $8 CAD.

Where to Stay If you’re on a budget, try Airbnb first. If you’re looking for a hotel, Booking.com has the best rates.  

Days 15-16: Thunder Bay, ON

Tucked away on the edge of Lake Superior, Thunder Bay is one of the biggest cities in Northern Ontario. It’s just an hour from the US border and is one of the sunniest cities in Eastern Canada.

Here are some things to see and do while you’re here:

• See the Terry Fox Monument – In 1980, cancer-survivor Terry Fox set out to run across Canada to raise money for cancer research. He did so on just one leg (he lost the other to cancer). He managed to run for 143 days straight (5,373km, or 3,339 miles) before his cancer returned and he had to call off his quest.
• Go hiking in Sleeping Giant – Sleeping Giant Provincial Park is located on Lake Superior and offers 80km of hiking trails, including both short day hikes and multi-day routes.
• Visit Fort William Historical Park – This park is where the reconstructed Fort William is located, a fur trading post from 1816. There’s a traditional blacksmith, cooper, and canoe builder, and you can interact with actors playing the various people you would have met here in the 19th century.

Where to Stay Airbnb doesn’t have many options here, but if you can find one, they start at $45 CAD per night. For hotels and motels, use Booking.com .  

Days 17-19: Algonquin Provincial Park, ON

There are several different campgrounds in the park, dozens of hiking trails, and over 1,500 lakes (it’s massive!). You can also rent canoes and kayaks to explore and go deeper into the park. Multi-day portages are possible too.

Even if you’re a newbie camper and don’t have gear, you’ll be able to rent what you need to have an enjoyable, relaxing getaway for under $50 CAD per day.

Days 20-23: Toronto, ON

There’s a ton to see and do here. Here are a few suggestions to help you get started:

• Visit the CN Tower – The iconic CN Tower stands 550m tall and is a fixture of Toronto’s skyline. It offers panoramic views, shopping, and 360-degree dining in its (expensive) restaurant. If the weather is nice (and you have some extra money to spend), you can also walk along the outer edge of the tower. It’s touristy and expensive but fun!
• Relax on Toronto Island – Spend an inexpensive day at Toronto Island Park and enjoy the beach, play volleyball, have a picnic, and take in the view of the city from the water.
• Visit the ROM – The Royal Ontario Museum has thousands of artifacts and specimens spread over 20 exhibits. There are displays on dinosaurs, ancient China, indigenous Canadians, medieval Europe, ancient Egypt, and more. It’s the best museum in town and a fun place for kids and adults alike!
• Hit the beach – The beaches near Lake Ontario are a relaxing way to spend the day during the humid summer. You can stroll along the boardwalk, eat at one of the many restaurants, or rent a boat and head out on the lake. Some of the best beaches are Cherry, Woodbine, and Centre Island.
• Wander Kensington Market – This bohemian neighborhood offers an eclectic mix of alternative restaurants and shops. It gets quite bustling in the summer, and there are often free concerts too. It’s one of my favorite places to wander around!

For more suggestions as well as money-saving tips, check out my free guide to Toronto!

Where to Stay Hotels in Toronto are expensive, so use Airbnb if you’re on a budget. If you do want to stay in a hostel, Planet Traveler Hostel is the best in the city.  

Days 24-26: Ottawa, ON

Located four hours from Toronto , it’s is full of historic buildings and museums, and is just a short walk from Québec (Canada’s French-speaking province).

Here’s what I would focus on in Ottawa during your stay:

• Wander the Byward Market – This massive market is full of restaurants, shops, and open-air stalls. There is a lot happening all year round, though in the summer it’s bustling with fresh produce and many local artisans. If you’re looking for a souvenir or just want to people-watch, this is the place!
• Visit the Canadian Museum of Civilization – While technically not in Ottawa (it’s across the river in Québec), this world-class museum is one of the best in all of Canada. It does an amazing job of showcasing Canada’s entire history, including some insightful exhibitions on First Nations. There are lots of kid-friendly exhibits too. This museum shouldn’t be missed!
• Try a beaver tail – These are not actual beaver tails, don’t worry! They’re delectable desserts resembling a flat donut, made of fried dough and covered in all sorts of sweet toppings. They’re a must!
• Visit the Canadian War Museum – Canada is known as a peaceful nation, but it’s been involved in its fair share of conflicts too. This museum does an excellent job of highlighting Canada’s military history. It has exhibits on both world wars as well as modern conflicts Canada has been engaged in.
• Skate on the Rideau Canal – Every winter, the Rideau Canal is frozen over and turned into a massive skating rink that stretches for miles (it’s the longest skating rink in the world). If you’re visiting during the winter, you can rent skates for around $20 CAD if you don’t have your own.
• Ottawa Backpackers Hostel – This laid-back hostel has some of the cheapest accommodation in the city. The dorms are spacious, it’s social, and it’s right near the Byward Market.
• HI Ottawa Jail Hostel – This hostel is located in a former jail. The rooms are small (they’re former cells), but it’s an incredibly unique space — and a little spooky too!

Days 27-30: Montreal, QC

Personally, I think it’s one of the best cities in Canada. The Old Town looks like something straight out of medieval France, and the French-inspired cuisine and eclectic nightlife (especially the jazz clubs) leave little to dislike.

Here are my suggestions for things to see and do while you’re here:

• Wander Old Montreal – This is the most attractive part of town. It has cobblestone streets, and its historic gray-stone buildings date back to the 1700s. Some of the city’s finest museums and art galleries (such as the Montreal Museum of Archaeology and History) are here too.
• Hike Mount Royal – For a view over Montreal, hike up Mount Royal (after which the city is named). You can also jog, picnic, or just people-watch around the park too. It’s a relaxing green space.
• Visit the Notre-Dame Basilica – This 17th-century Gothic Revival basilica has dual towers that are reminiscent of Notre-Dame in Paris. Its interior is stunning and full of religious paintings, colorful stained glass windows, and gold-leaf decoration. There’s also a 7,000-pipe organ. A 60-minute tour costs $15 CAD.
• See the Museum of Fine Arts – This huge museum has over 43,000 works of art. There are both permanent galleries and rotating exhibitions, so there’s always something new to see. Admission is $24 CAD.

For more suggestions, as well as money-saving tips, check out my guide to Montreal!

• HI Montreal – HI Montreal is just a two-minute walk from the metro, offers both dorms and private rooms, and has a pool table. There’s also free breakfast and daily activities, including bike tours, walks, a pub crawl, and even poutine tastings!
• Alternative Hostel of Old Montreal – Located in the historic area of town and a short jaunt to the city center, it has an eclectic and artsy vibe. Free breakfast is included, and there are plenty of common areas for relaxing and meeting other travelers.

Here are some other great hostel suggestions too!

This is a packed itinerary, but with a month at your disposal, you’ll be able to experience the majority of Canada’s sights and cities without having to rush. With an additional 10-21 days, you can add more of Québec and the Maritimes, Canada’s rugged and picturesque east coast (or simply spend more time in the destinations above).

No matter what you decide, Canada is such a massive, diverse landscape and it truly has something for everyone. While this itinerary only covers a portion of Canada, it does give you a peek into just how awesome it is!

Book Your Trip to Canada: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned!

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (for everyone below 70)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional repatriation coverage)

Need a Rental Car? Discover Cars is a budget-friendly international car rental website. No matter where you’re headed, they’ll be able to find the best — and cheapest — rental for your trip!

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Canada? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Canada for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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13 of the Best Road Trips in Canada

Written By: The Planet D

Canada , Road Trips

Updated On: February 19, 2024

We love epic drives and have had the pleasure of traveling overland on five different continents . But nothing compares to the best road trips in Canada. Exploring our own backyard always takes our breath away. Canada is beautiful!

While many websites will write about the road trips in Canada that they’ve only heard of or read about, we are rounding up the best Canada road trips that we’ve actually taken. From coast to coast we’ve got you covered with links to our in-depth experiences, maps, and further information.

So, grab a Tim Hortons coffee and put on your road trippin’ playlist while we help you decide where to go next in Canada!

Table of Contents

Best Road Trips in Canada

The main road across Canada is the Trans-Canada Highway 1. The Trans-Canada highway spans 7821 km (4859 miles) across our home and native land from coast to coast. With an epic road like this, it’s no wonder Canada is one of the best countries in the world for taking a road trip.

These are the best road trips in Canada that we’ve taken.

1. Yukon and Northwest Territories – Dempster Highway

Duration: 2 – 4 days one way.

A lot of people don’t know of the Dempster highway but it is the most exciting road trip in Canada that we’ve done! Starting in Inuvik Northwest Territories, the Dempster Highway is a 736 km (457mile) drive through two provinces. It even crosses the Arctic Circle.

You can rent a car one way from the town of Inuvik in the Northwest and then drive direct to Dawson City or continue on to Whitehorse to fly home. This goes through the heart of the Canadian wilderness and is one of the most remote pieces of highway in the world.

Highlights of this drive include:

• Inuvialuit and Gwich’in peoples Culture of Inuvik
• Grizzly bears and caribou,
• Old RCMP headquarters
• Arctic Circle
• Stunning Tombstone Mountain Range
• Gold Rush Town of Dawson City
• Read more about the Dempster Highway

2. Nova Scotia – Cabot Trail

Duration: 3 – 5 Days. It can be driven in one day, but you’ll miss all the gorgeous hikes, adventures and scenic stops.

The Cabot Trail is usually at the top of Everyone’s Canadian road trips list and it only barely missed out on the number one spot on our list. The reason, Cabot Trail is much busier than the Yukon. It is a beautiful coastal drive located on Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia. Starting in the town of Baddeck, we drove in a counter-clockwise direction to Margaree Harbour.

Highlights include:

• Skyline Trail – Stunning coastal views
• Cape Breton Highlands National Park
• Whale Watching & Zodiac tours
• Ingonish Beach
• Uisge Ban Waterfalls
• Coastal Hikes
• Glamping Tents
• 22 Incredible Stops on the Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia

3. Alberta – Icefields Parkway

Duration: one to seven days.

It might be the most famous of all the road trips in all of Canada. This stretch of highway between Banff and Jasper national parks is definitely the most beautiful road trip in Canada.

You can start this trip in Calgary and drive all the way to Edmonton to really make it a multiday trip. This entire drive can easily be done in a day but we really must give yourself several to do it justice. Spend a day or two in both Banff and Jasper and take some time to explore the Icefields Parkway. Read more: The Best Things to do in Banff

• Banff National Park
• Lake Louise
• Columbia Icefields
• Athabasca Glacier
• Breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains
• Read more: Driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper Alberta

4. British Columbia – Sea to Sky Highway

Duration: 1 day to 7 days

It’s rated as one of the most scenic drives and with good reason. Starting in Vancouver and ending in Pemberton British Columbia the Sea to Sky highway is 154 km (95 miles) long stretch along the coast.

Most people pass through in an hour and a half on their way to Whistler, but there are so many scenic views and the town of Squamish is an outdoor lover’s dream. Read more Famous Canada Landmarks to add to your bucket List

• Squamish Chief
• Shannon Falls
• Capilano Suspension Bridge
• Britania Mine
• Brandywine Falls
• Train Wreck Trail
• Read our full S ea to Sky Highway Itinerary
• 21 Best Day Trips From Vancouver, BC

5. New Brunswick – Fundy Coast

Duration: 5 days

The drive from Moncton to Saint Andrew’s in New Brunswick is one of the most scenic routes in Canada. This beautiful road trip weaves along the north shore of the Bay of Fundy: home to the world’s highest tides. After checking out Magnetic Hill and Centennial Park in Moncton, the drive veers south towards the Hopewell Rocks.

The Hopewell Rocks are beautiful flowerpot rocks and massive formations that can be walked among during low tide. It then continues to the historic old town of Saint John and ends in the lovely fishing village of Saint Andrews close to the border of Main.

• Hopewell Rocks flowerpot rocks
• Cape Enrage lighthouse
• Saint Martins Covered Bridges and sea caves
• Fundy Trail
• The fishing village of Saint Andrews
• Saint John, New Brunswick
• Read more: 25 Best Things to do in New Brunswick, Canada

6. Prince Edward Island

Duration: 1 – 3 days

Prince Edward Island is the smallest of Canadian provinces, but it is a beautiful place to go on a road trip. We combined our trip to PEI with New Brunswick.

Crossing Confederation Bridge into PEI feels like you have really driven off the beaten path in Canada. Charlottetown is the capital and a great place to start once you cross the bridge. We then drove a counter-clockwise loop around the Central Coastal Drive. Here we enjoyed the coastal views, lighthouses, sand dunes, and East Coast hospitality.

• Charlottetown – festival, dining, and waterfront
• famous red cliffs and sand dunes of PEI National Park
• Anne of Green Gables Shore
• The fishing village of Malpeque
• Read more: Things to do in Prince Edward Island (PEI)

7. Ontario – Sudbury to Thunder Bay

Duration : 5 Days. If you extend to go completely around Lake Superior make it 7 days.

The drive from Toronto to Sudbury is not the most eventful of trips, but once you arrive in Sudbury the adventure begins. Driving north along the Trans Canada Highway Route 1 from Sudbury to Thunder Bay has some of Canada’s top roadside attractions and houses some of the Iconic places to visit in Ontario.

The route takes you from Sudbury along the northern shore of Lake Huron and then turns north from Sault Ste. Marie above Lake Superior. With names like Wawa, Marathon, and White River, you’ll be driving through some of Canada’s quirkiest towns.

Highlights Include:

• The Big Nickle in Sudbury
• The Big Canada Goose – Wawa
• Canadian Bushplane Heritage Centre in the Soo (Sault Ste Marie)
• Pukaskwa National Park
• White River – Home to Winnie the Poo
• Terry Fox Memorial in Sudbury
• The waterfront of Thunder Bay
• Read all about our Lake Superior Circle Tour through the United States and Canada.

8. Quebec – Le Gaspésie Peninsula

Duration: 7 Days

This road trip starts from one of the oldest cities in North America, Quebec City. Quebec has kept its old-world charm that feels like a little piece of Europe hopped across the pond.

Driving along there are wildlife encounters, a UNESCO World Heritage Sites, awe-inspiring scenery, and culinary delights. You can start in Montreal if you want to enjoy another Canadian City as well. Driving along the St. Lawrence River out to the Gulf of St. Lawrence offers some of Canada’s most striking views and wildlife experiences.

• Old Quebec City
• St. Lawrence River
• Vertical Cliffs of Gaspésie Peninsula
• Pointe-au-Pere National Historic Site
• Camp in a Yurt at Bic National park
• Whale watching
• Spy on Seals
• Forillon National Park
• Read all about the Gaspe tour

9. Southern Alberta – Cowboy Trail

Duration: 7 – 10 days

While most people think of Banff and Jasper when driving through Alberta, the Cowboy Trail through Southern Alberta was one of the greatest Canadian road trips we’ve ever taken.

From trail rides and dude ranches to historic sites and badlands, this drive takes you through some very unique landscapes.

Highlights Include

• Waterton Lakes National Park – part of
• Dinosaur Provincial Park
• Canadian Badlands
• Bar U Ranch National Historic Site
• Hoodoos of Drumheller
• Read our full itinerary at the Cowboy Trail – Exploring Alberta’s South

10. Nova Scotia – South Shore

Duration: 7 days

Heading South from Halifax, most people make a day trip out to see Peggy’s Cove. This fishing village is home to the world-famous Peggy’s Cove lighthouse. But there is a lot more to do on Nova Scotia’s South Shore and we spent 10 days exploring its beauty.

From the rocks of Peggy’s Cove, we followed the lighthouse route all the way to Yarmouth. The historic route goes through old settlements, beautiful landscapes, secluded coves and beaches, and lovely towns.

• Peggy’s Cove
• Three Churches of Mahone Bay
• Yarmouth Lighthouse
• La Have Ferry and Bakery
• The Privateer History of Liverpool
• Read more at First Stop on Your East Coast Road Trip.

11. British Columbia – Sunshine Coast

Duration : 4 – 6 days

The Sunshine Coast of British Columbia is another epic drive in Canada. Starting in Vancouver , we took a ferry from Howe Sound to Gibsons Landing. Gibsons is still on the BC mainland, but it can only be reached by ferry.

Gibson’s Landing was home to the famous Canadian TV Show the Beachcombers that ran for nearly 20 years!

Once you leave Gibsons, you go through wild west coast terrain with beautiful coastal hikes, scenic lookouts, historic sites and eco-adventures. The 400km plus loop takes you north to Lund where you catch a ferry from Powell River to Vancouver Island and work your way south through Nanaimo to Crofton.

• Smugglers Cove – beautiful hike on the coast that was once a rumrunner’s hideout.
• Glamping at Rockwater Secret Cove
• National Historic District of Powell River
• Reversing Falls of Skookumchuc Provincial Park
• Desolation Sound
• Read more: Sunshine Coast BC – The Perfect Road Trip Itinerary

12. Quebec – Eastern Townships

Duration: 2 – 3 days weekend getaway from Montreal

Starting in Montreal, this Quebec Road trip takes you along Southern Quebec and the Eastern Townships.

Known for its wines and apple orchards, this route will take you on a French Canadian gastronomical journey. The cider route links apple orchards and cider houses together where you can taste local cuisine paired with premium cider.

Heading towards Saint Jean sur Richelieu may take you to the annual hot air balloon festival. And then move over Provence, Bleu Lavande in Quebec is one of the largest and important lavender producers in the country.

• Old Montreal
• HIstoric French Villages
• Covered Bridges Route
• Antique Shopping at North Hatley
• Hovey Manor on Lake Massawippi
• Mont Megantic National Park
• Check ou t Where to Stay in Montreal

13. Ontario – Grey Bruce Superloop

Duration : 3 – 4 Days

Ontario has an endless supply of Road Trips and we’ve done them all from the Niagara Parkway to the Apple Pie Trail and Manitoulin Island . But a very cool loop is the Grey Bruce Superloop around Lake Huron.

Driving along the South Shore of Lake Huron, this road trip takes you through Bruce County. Make sure to take a detour a little farther north to Tobermory. The perfect place for adventure scuba diving the shipwrecks or climbing at Lions Head.

• Wiarton Willy – Canada’s groundhog for groundhog day.
• Kincardine Lighthouse
• Sauble Beach
• Niagara Escarpment – World Heritage Site
• Waterfalls of Grey County
• Read more at Explore the Grey Bruce Superloop

I know we have missed a couple of provinces. While we have been to Manitoba and Saskatchewan, we haven’t taken a proper road trip through those provinces, but there are some great drives.

Newfoundland is on our list and perhaps when we can all travel again, Dave and I will hop in our car and head to the east coast of Canada to finish off our great Canadian road trip planner.

If you enjoyed our round up of Canadian Road Trips, save this to Pinterest for future travel planning.

Follow Along for More Road Trips Around the World

• California Road Trip Itinerary
• Arizona Road Trip
• Hana Highway
• 13 of the Best Canadian Road Trips – That We’ve Done
• 60 of the Best Road Trip Songs to Rock the Long Drive
• 60 of the Best Road Trip Songs to Rock the Long Drive The Ultimate Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary

Explore more of Canada

• 41 Beautiful Places in Canada To Visit Right Now
• 52 Things to do in Canada – For the Ultimate Adventures
• The Best Canada Adventures: 36 Amazing Trips from Coast to Coast
• Canada Winter Activities You Just Cannot Miss!
• The Great Canadian Word, Unique Phrases and Canadian Sayings
• Canadian Food – Delicious Dishes and Drinks from Canada
• Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Alberta Canada

And these are our favourite road trips in Canada. Where have you gone on an epic drive in Canada? Where should we go next?

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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1 thought on “13 of the Best Road Trips in Canada”

You for got the alaska hwy

• Road trip in Canada: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month

Visit Canada by car: The 5 best road trip itineraries

You’re planning to do a road trip in Canada and you’re looking for the best itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

Visiting Canada by car is the best way to optimize your itinerary and discover all the must-see attractions of the country.

In order to help you plan your stay , I have prepared this guide with the 5 best road trips itineraries in Canada depending on the duration of your stay (7, 10 days, 2 and 3 weeks and even 1 month!).

For each duration, I will give you a summary of the itinerary as well as the link to read the detailed itinerary article.

And at the end of this guide, I will also give you my list of the best accommodations in Canada depending on your budget as well as my best tips to enjoy the perfect road trip.

Which airport to choose to start a Canadian road trip?

Renting a car for a canadian road trip, canada road trip: a week in the east, 1) vancouver (2 days), 2) whistler (1 day), 3) wells gray provincial park (2 days), 4) jasper national park (2 days), 5) banff national park (2 days), 6) calgary (2 days), 2) victoria (2 days), 3) pacific rim (2 days), 4) whistler (2 days), 5) wells gray provincial park (2 days), 6) jasper national park (2 days), 7) banff national park (2 days), 8) calgary (1 day), 1) western canada (13 days), 2) eastern canada ( 8 days), 1) montreal (2 days), 2) ontario (5 days), 3) the province of quebec (21 days), where to stay during your canadian road trip, what’s the best time to go on a canadian road trip, you’re traveling in canada these articles will help you.

Canada boasts several international airports .

For a road trip through Western Canada , your best bets are:

If you’re planning a Canadian circuit but this time in the East , I’d recommend the airports in:

For these itineraries, I’ve assumed you’d be landing in either Vancouver or Montreal . Simply because I believe these are the most convenient spots for journeying through eastern or western Canada by car .

To travel to Canada , you’ll need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) beforehand. This form, which you can fill out online must definitely be completed before your trip to Canada.

The eTA applies to all travelers who don’t require a visa.

You’ll find all the information you need on this site .

A must-have for any successful Canadian exploration: a car !

I’d advise you to rent it directly from the airport . That’s where you’ll find the widest range of rental services . Plus, it’s way more convenient to return it at the end of your trip, as opposed to dropping it off at a city branch.

The best option you got is to use Rentalcars.com to book your rental car in Canada. I use it all the time, Thailand , Sicily , Scotland , you name it… and have always been super pleased. The customer service is top-notch , and their services are high quality.

On their website, you can:

• Compare all rental rates at the airport with a single click . It’s super handy to see which service is the cheapest and who has the best customer reputation.
• Benefit from comprehensive insurance coverage: this is your only way (unless your credit card already offers coverage) to get a refund in case of an accident or theft. Having tested this system multiple times, I can assure you that the reimbursement process is swift and guaranteed. They’ve refunded me over 1,300 euros in total over the years!
• Modify or cancel your booking for free . This allows you to reserve your car in advance for a great rate.

Given the vastness of this country, and the long distances between places, I suggest trying to select a comfortable and well-equipped car . Long hours on the road are not uncommon, so comfort is key!

If you’re planning a winter road trip through Canada, don’t worry, the cars are tailored to the climate and come equipped with winter tires for instance.

The option to have a second driver (often included for free) is also a good idea to prevent the primary driver from getting too tired.

Click on the button below to compare car rental prices for a Canadian itinerary:

You’re not required to have an international driving permit to rent a car for your Canadian road trip.

Your regular driver’s license will do , as long as it’s in the Latin alphabet and you’ve had it for over 12 months .

If you prefer to present an international driving permit, you’ll still need to show your national driver’s license . Without it, you won’t be able to pick up your car.

First up, I propose a road trip starting from Montreal , taking you through Eastern Canada in a week.

The itinerary for this one-week Canadian road trip includes Montreal , the Thousand Islands , Toronto , Ottawa and Mont-Tremblant .

This tour is a summary of my detailed article: A week in Canada .

Day One : Discovering the city of Montreal:

• Old Montreal district
• The Old Port
• Mount Royal Park
• Mount Royal district 
• And don’t forget to taste the local delicacy: poutine!

For even more info on exploring Montreal in one day, you should read my post: Best things to do in Montreal !

Day Two : Embark on a scenic cruise through the Thousand Islands , known as Mille Îles in French. This captivating archipelago is comprised of 1,865 islands nestled along the picturesque St. Lawrence River and Lake Ontario.

To book your 3-hour cruise around the Thousand Islands, just click the button below:

Day Three and Four : I suggest continuing this one-week Canadian road trip with a visit to Toronto, Ontario .

Here are the attractions you won’t want to miss :

• Kensington Market
• The Distillery district
• St. Lawrence Market
• Ripley’s Aquarium
• The CN Tower
• The Royal Ontario Museum
• The Toronto Islands

For all the details on these Toronto attractions, give a look at my article: Best things to see and do in Toronto .

Day Five : An excursion to Niagara Falls

A cruise at the foot of the falls is a must to truly appreciate them!

Remember to book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line:

And if you want to experience something extraordinary during this 7-day Canadian road trip, consider taking a helicopter ride over the falls :

Day Six : Heading to Ottawa , the capital of Canada.

Here’s what I’d suggest you explore:

• Byward Market
• Parliament Hill
• The Canadian Museum of History : one of the most fascinating museums you’ll come across on your one-week eastern Canada road trip.

Wrap up your day with a stroll along the Rideau Canal , a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

For more details, make sure to check out my dedicated article: Visiting Ottawa .

Day Seven , make sure to stop by Omega Park , located in Montebello. The park is explored by car as the animals roam freely.

Next, head to Mont-Tremblant , where you can go hiking or indulge in water activities by the lake. In the winter, the village turns into a ski resort .

Day Eight : The holiday’s end is nigh, head back to Montreal for your return flight.

Thinking about doing a one-week road trip in Canada ? Well, I’ve got you covered with my detailed article : One-week itinerary in Canada .

Quite handy, you’ll find loads of tips and recommendations for places to stay at each stage . The ultimate guide to effortless trip planning !

Road Trip in Canada: 10 days

For this next adventure, I’ll take you on an exhilarating 10-day road trip through the stunning landscapes of Canada.

You’ll get to discover western Canada , from the bustling metropolis of Vancouver to the vibrant city of Calgary . The perfect tour for checking out the two major cities of this part of the country and, above all, the stunning natural landscapes of Canada’s national parks .

On the agenda for this 10-day road trip in Canada:

• Wells Gray Provincial Park
• Jasper National Park
• Banff National Park

All the details to plan this road trip are in my article: 10-Day Itinerary in Canada .

I’ve summarized the main stages for you below:

We kick off this 10-day Canadian road trip with Vancouver . The city is located on the West Coast , in British Columbia.

To discover its main tourist attractions and recover from jet lag, I suggest you spend 2 days there.

First day – Here’s an idea of what you can do on your first day in Vancouver:

• The historic district of Gastown
• Canada Place and the Waterfront
• The FlyOver Canada
• Stanley Park
• Vancouver Lookout
• Yaletown district

On the second day , continue your tour by visiting Granville Island , followed by the Anthropology Museum , and a walk through Van Elsen Botanical Garden .

Then hit Robson Street for a bit of shopping, the main commercial artery of Vancouver.

To best plan your 2 days in Vancouver, check out my article: Top 25 Things to Do in Vancouver .

The next day (day three) , head to one of the best ski resorts in the world: Whistler .

In winter , you can hit the slopes or go on a sled dog or snowmobile ride .

In summer , it’s time for hiking trails, biking or relaxing in a luxury Spa . And don’t forget to ride the longest zip line in Canada , at over 60 mph! Activity that can be booked directly by clicking here .

Days four and five will be dedicated to the Wells Gray Provincial Park .

Don’t miss out on:

• Helmcken Falls : one of the most beautiful in western Canada.
• Bailey’s Chute where you can watch salmon swimming upstream
• The Spahat Falls
• And Dawson Falls

As for activities, you can also go swimming or canoeing at Clearwater Lake, hike one of the numerous trails, or go black bear watching .

Day six brings us to a must-visit destination on your 10-day Canadian road trip: Jasper National Park .

You’ll get to check out two stunning lakes: Maligne Lake , the biggest lake in the Canadian Rockies, and Medicine Lake .

And of course, there’s nothing better to tour the national park than a little hike !

Day seven my friends, brings us to yet another breathtaking spectacle: Banff National Park . Hop in the car in Jasper and treat yourself to one of the most beautiful scenic routes the country has to offer: the Icefield Parkways .

Connecting the two parks over nearly 230 km, it’s a feast for your eyes with sublime landscapes . The road is well designed, boasting plenty of parking spots and lookouts to safely stop . Here are a few pit stops to consider :

• Athabasca Falls , towering more than 20 meters high
• The Sunwapta Falls
• Explore Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefield . If you’re going to make a single stop along the Icefields Parkway, make it this one. Strap yourself into a bus fitted with giant tires for a tour. It’s one of the most popular activities in the area and the good news is, you can book it directly by clicking here !
• Peyto Lake, a quick 15-minute stroll away. You’ll be amazed by its turquoise waters, a result of glacier melt.

On day 8 , you should explore Banff on foot . Make your way to the famous Lake Louise , one of the most photographed spots in the world due to its stunning turquoise hue.

Moraine Lake is also a must-see!

To check the trail conditions and see all the possible hikes, visit Parks Canada’s website .

Cap off this 10-day Canadian West road trip by heading to Calgary .

On day nine , take some time to explore the city:

• Glenbow Museum with its collection of 33,000 works of art
• The 360° views from the Calgary Tower
• Heritage Park Village to learn about the old-fashioned lifestyle of a typical Canadian village
• Kensington Village : a lively neighborhood with great shops and restaurants

On day ten , it’s time to catch your return flight from Calgary Airport.

If you’re after more details on this 10-day Canadian road trip , you should check out my comprehensive article: 10-day itinerary in Canada .

There, you’ll find our list of the best accommodations for each stage. Trust me, planning your 10-day trip to Canada is going to be a breeze !

Canada road trip: Two weeks

For this 15-day Canadian road trip , let’s set off to discover the must-see sights of the west of the country.

This 2-week Canadian road trip also starts in Vancouver and ends in Calgary.

You can find all the details to plan this Canadian circuit in my article: 2-week itinerary in Canada .

Here’s a quick breakdown of the stages:

We kick off this two-week Canadian road trip by spending 2 days in Vancouver .

You’ll get a good look at most of the places I mention in my Top 25 must-see places in Vancouver .

First and second day – Things to do:

• Gastown district
• Chinatown and Dr. Sun Yat-Sen’s Chinese Garden
• The Waterfront and Canada Place
• A seaplane flight
• Granville Island
• Robson Street

Day three of your 15-day Canadian road trip, you’ll need to hop on the ferry to Vancouver Island and head for Victoria .

On your agenda for the day, I’d recommend:

• Visiting Butchart Gardens
• Taking a stroll through Chinatown
• Market Square
• Bastion Square
• Inner Harbour

On the fourth day , you’ll get a chance to set sail on a whale-watching cruise .

Be sure to book well in advance by clicking here:

The rest of the day can be spent exploring Victoria, where you can visit the Parliament and the Royal BC Museum and wrap up at Beacon Hill Park by the sea.

Day five – Journey from Victoria to Ucluelet, the gateway to Pacific Rim National Park.

Two stops worth making: the village of Duncan and Cathedral Grove .

Day six – Explore the Pacific Rim reserve : plenty of hiking opportunities and a mandatory stop at Long Beach .

Day seven of your 15-day Canadian road trip, allow a day for the journey to Whistler .

On day eight, there’s loads of activities to do in Whistler, whether it’s winter (skiing, snowshoeing) or summer (hiking, biking).

And for those without a fear of heights, you can try out Canada’s longest zipline ! Activity that can be booked directly by clicking here !

For day nine , point your compass towards Wells Gray Provincial Park, travelling along the beautiful Route 99 , one of the country’s finest! Day ten – Adventure in Wells Gray Park where you can choose from:

• Helmcken Falls
• Bailey’s Chute, Spahat Falls or Dawson Falls , among other waterfalls
• Clearwater Lake
• Black bears spotting with a guide

Impossible to explore Western Canada in 15 days without hitting up Jasper National Park . It’s just not done!

So, on the eleventh day , hit the road to this gem, a UNESCO World Heritage Site . You’ll be able to check out Maligne Lake and Medicine Lake .

Day twelve , it’s time to tie up those hiking boots and spend the day trekking the many trails in Jasper .

Post-Jasper , you’ll continue your Canadian road trip with another national park: Banff .

Day thirteen , you’ll be taking Route 93 (the Icefield Parkway) which links the 25 parks together. Covering nearly 230 km, it’s a route jam-packed with stunning scenery . And to enjoy it all, you can pull over safely at the many viewpoints and car parks .

As for the must-see spots , I highly recommend:

• The Athabasca Falls
• The Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefield . You can explore on foot or on a bus tour equipped with giant tires for some off-roading . Book this activity directly by clicking here !
• Peyto Lake with its unbelievably colored water

On the fourteenth day , it’s time to immerse yourself in the beauty of Banff National Park . Here too, the best way to admire the landscapes is to opt for a hike . The most famous trails allow you to circle around Lake Louise and Lake Moraine , the two most renowned lakes.

Here you are at the fifteenth day of your two-week Western Canada road trip.

Wrap up your holidays in Calgary , where you can notably visit the Glenbow Museum, the Heritage Park Village or ascend to the top of the Calgary Tower. You should get your skip-the-line tickets in advance by clicking here !

I also provide all the necessary information to visit Calgary in this article: Best things to do in Calgary !

Canada road trip: 3 weeks

For this 3-week road trip across Canada , I suggest dividing your vacation into 2 parts :

• Western Canada for about two weeks featuring Vancouver , Victoria, Jasper National Park, Banff National Park
• A week-long road trip in the East of Canada to uncover the delights of Montreal , Toronto , and Ottawa .

To help you organize your Canadian road trip down to the last detail, I’ve got you covered in my article: 3-week itinerary in Canada !

Simply click on the orange link above to discover: the different stages , travel times, places to visit, hotels for a good night’s sleep and the best activities to get involved in.

I’m still going to give you a quick rundown of the visits planned during these 3 weeks so you get a taste:

Start your 21-day Canadian road trip in the West for the first 13 days.

Day 1 and 2 – Vancouver

Day 3 – Victoria , the capital of British Columbia

Day 4 – Whale watching , an essential part of your 3-week Canadian road trip!

Days 5 and 6 – Whistler , one of Canada’s top ski resorts ! No worries, there’s plenty to do in the summer too.

Days 7 and 8 – Discover the Wells Gray Provincial Park and its many waterfalls

Days 9 and 10 – Explore Jasper National Park by car and on foot

Days 11 and 12 – Continue your three-week Canadian road trip with Banff National Park and the famous Lake Louise

Day 13 – Head on over to Calgary and catch your flight to Montreal!

After 13 glorious days in western Canada, it’s time to continue your 20-21 day Canadian road trip in the east of the country.

Day 14 – Explore Montreal with a stroll around the old Montreal neighborhood and up to Mount-Royal

Day 15 – Cruise to the Thousand Islands or helicopter ride

Days 16 and 17 – Discover must-see places in Toronto and don’t miss out on the view from atop the CN Tower

Day 18 – A day at the Niagara Falls , the major tourist attraction of this 3-week Canadian road trip. Whether it’s on a cruise at the base of the falls , a helicopter ride or by climbing up the Skylon Tower , you’ll get to see the falls from all angles!

Day 19 – Dedicate a day to Canada’s capital: Ottawa .

Days 20 and 21 – Return to Montreal to finish off your 3-week Canadian road trip by exploring the city a bit more .

To read the complete version of my 3-week itinerary , complete with advice and accommodation suggestions, click here !

Canada road trip: One month

Final itinerary for those lucky ones who get to embark on a month-long road trip in Canada !

I’m suggesting you discover a great chunk of the East over about thirty days. You’ll get to visit Montreal , Ontario, home to the famous Toronto , along with the province of Quebec and the Gaspé Peninsula (Gaspésie in French).

All the must-see cities of the east and gorgeous national parks are on the menu for this 1-month Canadian road trip.

 I’ve got you covered with all the juicy details to plan your epic eastern Canadian adventure in this post: A one-month adventure: Exploring Canada . For each day, you’ll get a list of things to do and see, travel times, and the best accommodations to rest at each stop.

To give you a taste, I’ve prepared a summary of the itinerary’s stages :

To kickstart this fabulous one-month road trip across Canada, I suggest landing in Montreal and taking a couple of days to recover from your flight and the inevitable jetlag.

Day 1 and 2 – Get a taste of Montreal , dive into the iconic neighborhoods of Old Port and Mount-Royal .

The second chapter of this 1-month Canadian adventure unfolds in Ontario .

Day 3 – Boat trip around the Thousand Islands

Days 4 and 5 – Explore the marvels of Toronto and its popular neighborhoods like Kensington, Chinatown, The Distillery…

Day 6 – Day trip to the breathtaking Niagara Falls

Day 7 – Head to Ottawa , Canada’s capital. Don’t miss out on the Canadian Museum of History !

The third act of your 1-month road trip through Canada is entirely dedicated to Quebec .

Day 8 – Visit the Omega Park and Mont-Tremblant

Days 9 and 10 – Engage in varied activities based on the season (hiking, canoeing, dog sledding, snowmobiling…) in La Mauricie National Park

Days 11 and 12 – Tour around Lake St-Jean : the Wild Zoo of St-Félicien , the Native Museum of Mashteuiatsh , the ghost town of Val-Jalbert .

Days 13 and 14 – Discover the lovely villages of Fjord-du-Saguenay and take a boat or kayak ride on the fjord

Day 15 – Whale watching cruise in Tadoussac , experiencing whales in their natural environment, one of the most unforgettable experience of your one-month Canadian road trip!

Days 16, 17, and 18 – Journey through Gaspésie National Park

Days 19 and 20 – Your itinerary includes: Forillon National Park, Percé, and Bonaventure Island

Day 21 – Relaxation day at Chaleur Bay that the locals call “Baie des Chaleurs” (litteraly heat bay) that boasts several long beaches

Days 22 and 23 – Hiking or cycling on one of the numerous trails in Bic National Park

Days 24, 25, and 26 – Visit Quebec City and its surroundings . You’ll find all the things to do in my article: Best things to do in Quebec City !

Days 27 and 28 – This one-month road trip in Canada wraps up and you’ll return to Montreal where you can take some time to finish exploring the city.

To make it easy for you, here’s the link to the full itinerary: How to visit Canada in 1 month ?

Now you’re well-equipped to plan your road trip across Canada ! But there’s a final point we can’t ignore: where you’ll lay your head at night .

Where to stay at each stage of your Canadian journey?

Fear not, I’ve got you covered with a selection of the best hotels in Canada, categorized by city and area , and based on your budget, in all the road trip articles I’ve previously mentioned.

You can also find them by clicking directly on the links below :

For Western Canada:

• Pacific Rim

For Eastern Canada:

• The Thousand Islands
• Mont-Tremblant
• La Mauricie National Park
• Lac Saint-Jean
• Fjord-du-Saguenay
• Gaspésie National Park
• Chaleur Bay
• Bic National Park

Good news, there’s no bad time to go on a road trip through Canada.

It all depends on the activities you fancy.

Winter is the best time to visit Canada by car if you want to enjoy a whole range of winter activities: skiing, snowshoeing, dog sledding, and snowmobiling.

And if you’re doing this Canadian road trip with family , your kids will be thrilled to sled down the slopes or try snow rafting and ice skating .

Driving in winter? No worries, cars are well-equipped, and roads are maintained and cleared. However, some routes in national parks might be closed, but you’ll always find something to do!

If you plan to embark on a Canadian road trip in spring , it’s the perfect season to explore national parks, enjoy nature and go hiking . The crowds are scarce, and the weather is delightful.

As for autumn, this is the time when you can experience the vibrant colors of the trees and landscapes in shades of orange, yellow, and red. A treat for photography enthusiasts!

Summer ? No problem with the temperature, it’s hot and sunny . But as with many destinations, it’s peak tourist season , so expect crowds pretty much everywhere.

Keep in mind, many Canadian companies shut down in July and August for “ construction holiday ” when many Canadian companies shut down. It’s the perfect time for Canadians to hit the road as well!

If you’re hoping to visit national parks (Jasper, Banff, in the province of Quebec and Gaspésie), options can be limited, so you should book your accommodations as early as possible .

For all cities, both in the west and the east, you can discover all the attractions at any time of year .

Discover all my articles about Canada : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Canada are listed there.

• 20 Best Things to do in Canada
• 20 Best Things to do in Quebec – All best places to visit in the French-speaking province!
• Itinerary: One week in Canada: The perfect itinerary to visit Canada in 6, 7 or 8 days!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Canada: All my best tips for organizing your 10-day trip to Canada
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Canada: How to visit Western Canada in 15 days.
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Canada: My epic itinerary to visit Western and Eastern Canada in 21 days
• Itinerary: 1 month in Canada: How to visit Eastern Canada in a month!
• Itinerary: One week in Quebec: How to visit Quebec in 6, 7 or 8 days, with all my best tips!
• Itinerary: 10 days in Quebec: An amazing 10-day itinerary in Quebec
• Itinerary: 2 weeks in Quebec: All my best tips to visit Quebec in 14, 15 or 16 days
• Itinerary: 3 weeks in Quebec: the perfect 3-week road trip in Quebec !
• Road trip in Quebec: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15 and 21 days
• Calgary : Top 11 things to do during your visit
• Montreal : 33 best things to see and do
• Ottawa : 15 epic places to visit
• Quebec City : Top 17 things to do and see
• Toronto : The 17 things to do during your stay
• Vancouver : Top 25 places to visit and activities
• Toronto in 3 days – The perfect itinerary to visit the city in 72 hours!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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The Ultimate Road Trip Route Across Canada

Mar 17, 2022

Whether a road trip across Canada is an adventure you have been dreaming about or are already starting to plan, we are here to help! As a proud, Canadian company, we’re sharing our best road trip routes from the west coast to the east coast, helpful tips to make the most of your holiday, and essential vocabulary to get you by. From west to east, north to south, the 10-million square kilometre landmass known as Canada contains a veritable wealth of culture, history, and natural majesty that will seduce any intrepid explorer who sets out on four wheels intent on discovering its secrets. If you are just such an explorer, this is your lucky day! Shore up to your great Canadian adventure-hungry, curious, and with a full tank of gas … there’s so much more than meets the eye!

Photo: Robin in Banff for Flytographer

Table of Contents:

• Know Before You Go
• British Columbia Points of Interest
• Alberta Points of Interest
• Saskatchewan Points of Interest
• Manitoba Points of Interest
• Ontario Points of Interest
• Québec Points of Interest
• New Brunswick Points of Interest
• Nova Scotia Points of Interest
• Prince Edward Island (PEI) Points of Interest
• Newfoundland & Labrador Points of Interest

Photo: Lyndsay in Calgary for Flytographer

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Your guide to the ultimate Canada road trip

Read time: 11 minutes

With 900,000 km of driving routes, Canada has enough roads to circle the globe 22 times, making it a great place to take a road trip. But despite the vast distances, planning a driving holiday in one of the world’s largest countries couldn’t be easier. You’ll find plentiful  car hire in Canada , well-paved open roads and friendly stop-offs—all of which make journeying a breeze.

In this guide, we’ve rounded up a few of our favourite road trip itineraries to get you started, as well as our top tips for planning a road trip holiday in Canada . Be sure to explore our interactive maps for a sneak peek at the stunning views awaiting you.

SEE ALSO: How to plan the perfect self-drive holiday with Canadian Affair

1.  The best road trips in Canada

–  Unlimited Adventures – Whales, Bears and Vancouver Island – Great Parks of the East – Beaches, Islands, Lobster, Moose and More

2. Top tips for planning a road trip in Canada

– Applying for visas – Hiring a car – Car insurance – Canada road trip checklist

The best road trips in Canada

Unlimited adventures – 16 days.

Towering snowy peaks, impressive mountain roads and an abundance of wildlife make the Rocky Mountains one of Canada’s star attractions. This route takes in three of western Canada’s best national parks and is perfect for an open jaw flight into Calgary and out of Vancouver.

Day 1 – Calgary

After your  flight to Calgary , you’ll be able to pick up your personalised road book and take in the sights of Stampede City on your first day here.

Day 2 & 3 – Banff

(1 hour 25-minute drive)

Spend the day hiking, biking, horse riding, or just relaxing in the hot springs. Take a  gondola ride  to the top of Sulphur Mountain for spectacular views of Bow Valley below.

Day 4 – Lake Louise

(40-minute drive)

The sparkling, blue lake is jaw-dropping with its proud backdrop of the rugged Victoria Glacier. Stroll around the water’s edge or take a chair lift to the top of Whitethorn Mountain.

Day 5 – Jasper

(7 hour 20-minute’ drive – this is one of the longest stretches in Canada but is along arguably the most beautiful road, Canada’s Icefields Parkway.)

Enjoy the endless sights along the Icefields Parkway, including a walk on the Athabasca Glacier and over the glass-bottomed  Glacier Skywalk . You can also see Bow Lake and Peyto Lake before coming into the quaint town of  Jasper .

SEE ALSO: A Guide to the Icefields Parkway’s Top Stops

Day 6 – Clearwater

( 3 hour 20-minute drive)

The Yellowhead Highway takes you along the Thompson Valley to Clearwater, a beautiful unspoiled area north of Kamloops. En-route you’ll pass the majestic Mount Robson—the highest peak in the Rockies.

Day 7 & 8 – Gold Bridge

( 6 hour 15-minute drive)

This quaint area is perfect for exploring British Columbia’s Gold Rush history. Investigate the old mine ruins and ghost towns left by early prospectors.

Day 9 – Whistler

( 2 hour 20-minute drive)

You’ll be spoilt for choice in this active mountain community. There’s hiking and mountain biking to keep you busy, as well as a fantastic al fresco dining scene. A must-do is the  Peak-2-Peak Gondola  where you’ll witness superb views.

Day 11 – Tofino

( 6 hours 35 minutes, including a two-hour ferry)

Situated along the south-western coast of Vancouver Island, the Pacific Rim National Park is a thin strip of magnificent islands, beaches, and dramatic seascapes. The ferry across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island is beautiful in itself.

Day 13 – Victoria

( 4 hour 20-minute drive)

The charming colonial city of Victoria is the capital of British Columbia. Enjoy the colourful downtown area full of boutiques, shops and restaurants, or unwind by Victoria’s beautiful Inner Harbour.

Day 15 & 16 – Vancouver

( 3 hours 15 minutes, including a two-hour ferry to Vancouver Island)

Even if you are planning a separate Vancouver holiday , this bustling city shouldn’t be missed on your road trip; perfect for shopping, dining and sightseeing. Visit Stanley Park, head to the beach, or visit the city’s museums.

Whales, Bears and Vancouver Island – 9 days

One of our quickest road trips, this short-but-sweet itinerary proves you don’t need two weeks or hundreds of miles to get to the good stuff in Canada. With return flights to Vancouver, it’s the best way to squeeze city and wilderness into one holiday on a time limit.

Day 1 – Vancouver to Victoria

(3 hours 15 minutes, including a two-hour ferry to Vancouver Island)

Pick up your hire car and start your adventure! Hop on the ferry from Vancouver to Vancouver Island across the stunning Strait of Georgia.

Day 2 – Victoria

Embark on a whale-watching adventure aboard a Zodiac boat. Learn about the environment and habits of killer whales, minke whales and grey whales as you keep your eyes peeled for ocean giants and other marine wildlife.

Day 3 & 4 – Tofino

(4 hour 20-minute drive)

This scenic road through Vancouver Island passes spectacular, old-growth temperate rainforests as it leads you to the Pacific Rim National Park and the surf haven of Tofino . On your second day in Tofino, you’ll enjoy an unforgettable boat trip to see the region’s coastal black bears foraging on the shores.

SEE ALSO: What is your perfect Canada road trip driving song?

Day 5 & 6 – Sonora Resort

(3 hour 20-minute drive, then a short water taxi)

This luxury wilderness resort is like nothing you’ll have experienced before. Wildlife spotting opportunities are boundless and the natural beauty of the area will take your breath away.

Day 7, 8 & 9 – Vancouver

(4 hours 10 minutes, including a two-hour ferry)

Finish your tour in the vibrant metropolis of Vancouver for shopping, dining and sightseeing. Hop on a floatplane or boat ride for a unique view of the city from the water, or head over to the North Shore for more outdoor adventures.

Great Parks of the East – 15 days

This two-week circular tour starts in the cosmopolitan behemoth of Toronto before taking in the most vibrant cities on the east coast. Culture and nature come head-to-head on this diverse trail from Canada’s capital, Ottawa, to its beautiful regional parks.

Day 1 – Toronto

Collect your hire car ready for your adventure! Spend the day exploring  Toronto , with highlights including a visit to the CN Tower and some of its trendy neighbourhoods for shopping and dining.

Day 2 – Midland

(1 hour 50-minute drive)

Drive through scenic Huron Country via Penetanguishene, an old native village.

Day 3 & 4 – Huntsville

(1 hour 35-minute drive)

It doesn’t get much better than the peaceful setting of Huntsville, surrounded by forests and lakes and perfect for boating and horse riding.

Day 5 – Ottawa

(4-hour drive)

Drive to Canada’s capital city via  Gatineau Park  with miles of cycling trails. In the city, explore the historic Parliament buildings or stroll by the scenic Rideau Canal.

Day 6 & 7 – Tremblant

Enjoy relaxing in the tranquil setting of the Laurentian Mountains.

Day 8 & 9 – Québec City

(3 hour 45-minute drive)

Soak in the history of this Francophone city, from Place Royal to Montmorency Falls.

Day 10 & 11 – St Michel-Des-Saints

(3 hour 20-minute drive)

Fertile plains, rolling hills and a beautiful lake. The scenery here is ideal for kayaking, mountain biking and hiking.

Day 12 – Montréal

(2 hour 15-minute’ drive)

Montréal is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city famed for its arts scene.

Day 13 – Kingston

(3-hour drive)

A trip to Kingston wouldn’t be complete without a cruise through the 1000 Islands waterway.

Day 14 – Niagara Falls (3 hour 45-minute drive)

Tick off one of the world’s most iconic sights when you experience these thundering falls first-hand.

SEE ALSO: Best scenic drives around Ontario

Day 15 – Toronto

The perfect way to end your tour. The short driving distance allows you a little more time in the city before flying home.

Beaches, Islands, Lobster, Moose and More – 18 days

This road trip takes in the best of the east as it meanders through Canada’s Maritime Provinces – Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. Charming villages compete with lighthouses, whales, sand beaches and rugged highlands for your attention. With the most stunning coastlines and delicious seafood along the way, this region of Canada is an unspoilt gem.

Day 1 – Arrive at Halifax Airport

Pick up your car upon arrival and make your way to your hotel to check-in and refresh. You have the whole day to explore the nearly 270-years-old Halifax. Visit the historic Citadel, the Old Town Clock, the Public Gardens and the charming and lively harbour.

Day 2 – Drive along the Eastern Shore (275 km)

Today your epic road trip begins. Head north on the Marine Drive, a scenic route along Nova Scotia’s Eastern Shore. Make a stop at Sherbrooke Village, where animators dressed in period costumes will bring you back in time to the glorious 19th century.

Day 3 – Make your way to Baddeck (280 km)

Day 3 of your trip gives you the chance to explore the wildest and most remote parts of Nova Scotia’s northeast coast with an optional stop at the small fishing village of Canso before you head further north to Cape Breton Island. Overnight in Baddeck on the shores of the Bras D‘Or Lake.

Day 4 – Explore Cape Breton Island

Cape Breton Island is home to one of the most iconic and scenic drives not only in Canada but worldwide. The Cabot Trail is a 298km long road along the island’s coastline, rewarding travellers with picturesque views of the ocean, weaving through lush green forests, valleys, and waterfalls as it climbs from sea level up to 500m above the sea. A visit to the Fortress of Louisbourg is a must.

Day 5 – Baddeck to Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island) (250 km)

Today you will drive back to Nova Scotia’s mainland to take a 75-minute ferry trip to Prince Edward Island, the smallest province in Canada. Before that, make a stop at Pictou, the town renowned as the “Birthplace of New Scotland” (Nova Scotia).

Day 6 – Explore Charlottetown before you continue north to O‘Leary/Alberton (175 km)

Small but charming, friendly, and rich in history, Charlottetown will take you by surprise with all it has to offer. Visit the “Birthplace of Canada” – the Province House National Historic Site, admire the finest architecture of the Victoria Row, or head to the Confederation Centre of Arts.

SEE ALSO: Top Tips for Driving in Canada

Day 7 – Get to know more of Prince Edward Island

Drive towards the less-known Western part of the island where red sand beaches and delicious seafood awaits you on Prince Edward Island.

Day 8 – Drive to Richibucto (New Brunswick) (260 km)

Today immerse yourself into the beauty and charm of the New Brunswick’s Acadian Coast. Highlights of the day are the Bouctouche and Kouchibouguac National Parks and the theatrical village of “Pays de la Sagouine”.

Day 9 – Continue to Caraquet (175 km)

Caraquet is known to be the unofficial capital of French-speaking Acadians. Nature-lovers should visit the close-by islands of Lamèque and Miscou to enjoy sandy beaches and a great variety of birds.

Day 10 & 11 – Drive to Fredericton and spend a day exploring the provincial capital (300 km)

A scenic drive along the Miramichi River, famous for one of the largest populations of Atlantic salmon in Eastern North America, will take you to Fredericton at the very heart of New Brunswick. Spend a whole day strolling down the city on a bicycle or foot, enjoying its calmness, beautiful nature and historic sites.

Day 12 – Head south to St. Andrews (150 km)

St. Andrews is one of the oldest and most charming towns in Canada’s Maritimes. This seaside resort village attracts travellers with its rich history and culture, beautiful nature and marine life, hospitality, and a great variety of outdoor activities.

Day 13 – Discover the hidden gems of the Bay of Fundy

The Bay of Fundy is renowned for the place with the highest tides on Earth (16m), home to over 15 species of whales and dolphins, many migrating birds and stunning dinosaur fossils.

Day 14 – St. Andrews to Shediac (370 km)

A scenic coastal drive will bring you to Saint John and its “Reversing Falls”. Highlights of the day though are Fundy National Park, further west, and the Hopewell Rocks. Often called the “Flowerpots Rocks”, you will get the chance to walk on the ocean’s bed around these stunning rock formations at low tide.

Day 15 – Make your way to Wolfville (300 km)

Visit the Joggins Fossil Cliffs, 14.7 km of cliffs revealing the world’s most complete fossil record of life from 300 million years ago. The area was pronounced a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

Day 16 – Liverpool/White Point (160 km)

Your fly-drive holiday package includes a Tour & Wine Tasting at the Grand Pre-Winery today before you head to Kejimkujik National Park, a vast 381 sq. km park of lush forests, lakes and rivers offering a variety of outdoor activities.

Day 17 – Drive back to Halifax (160 km)

Your road trip continues along the beautiful south shore of Nova Scotia with iconic sites such as Peggy’s Cove, the most photographed lighthouse in the whole of Canada, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Lunenburg, the scenic Mahone Bay and elegant Chester.

Day 18 – Departure from Halifax Airport

Top tips for planning a road trip in canada.

As you can see, a road trip through Canada is the ultimate adventure and now that you have an idea about some of the amazing routes available, check out a few of our top planning tips below.

Visas you need for a Canada road trip

Before you book anything, you’ll need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) to enter Canada by air. If you wish to visit the USA as part of your trip (and we recommend Alaska), you will need to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) to enter America.

How to hire a Car in Canada

There are plenty of options for  car hire in Canada . Depending on what time of year you’re travelling, you may want to choose your car based on potential road conditions. If you’re planning on going off the beaten track or driving through the winter, a sturdy car such as an SUV might be more suitable. Be sure to check that you are allowed to drive your hire car in winter conditions, as there are laws on snow tyres and chains.

SEE ALSO: 10 best road trips in Alberta

Don’t forget travel insurance

Travel insurance is usually pretty cheap and when you’re setting off on a big journey, it’s important to make sure you’re covered. As there are plenty of adventure activities on offer in Canada, if you’re planning on trying rafting, skiing or something similar, make sure you are covered. While it’s unpleasant to think of an accident or illness ruining your road trip, experiencing either of these without travel insurance would be a nightmare.

Canada road trip checklist

For a full planning agenda, take a look at the below checklist for a few more tips to help you plan your road adventure in Canada.

– Pick a route

– Know how long the routes are to help you plan

– Plan your pit stops for breaks and photo opportunities

– Choose which season is best for your route

– Avoid snowy seasons. May is a perfect time due to less traffic and increasing light.

– Apply for visas

– Book flights

– Vancouver , Toronto , Québec , Calgary , and Montréal are all ideal locations to fly to.

– Don’t forget travel insurance

As you can see, a road trip in Canada is a truly wonderful way to see the many delights of this great country. With various sights and sounds on display, the open roads of Canada are the perfect option for a memorable adventure.

Check out further articles and guides to Canada on our blog for even more inspiration.

If all of this has got you excited for what’s possible, make sure to take a look at some of our fly drive holidays to Canada so you can get planning!

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Road Trip Through Canada’s National Parks

Canada is a vast country with endless beauty spanning many diverse landscapes. With one lake for every 18 people in Canada, there’s no shortage of pristine wilderness and outdoor adventure.

A road trip through Canada is one of the best ways to see the changing landscapes of the county. And Canada’s National Parks are the best spots to explore along the way. Let’s dive into exactly what you need to know to plan the ultimate Canada road trip—one that thoroughly explores Eastern Canada , a popular region of the country, but an itinerary to also cross Canada’s 10 provinces , taking in the best national parks along the way.

Although this road trip route runs east to west, you could also plan your itinerary to easily drive it in the reverse direction.

Table of Contents

Canada Road Trip Itinerary

Newfoundland.

Spend a few days getting acquainted with the charming city of St John’s , then start your road trip towards Gros Morne National Park . Along the way, you’ll drive through Terra Nova National Park. This is a perfect place to break up the drive, as Gros Morne is about seven hours away. Spend the night in Terra Nova , and soak up Newfoundland’s wild beauty.

Gros Morne National Park is stunning. If you love to hike, challenge yourself up 800 meters to the summit of Gros Morne mountain. This is no easy feat, as the last two hours of the hike involve climbing up steep rocks, but the views at the top are worth it.

For a less strenuous activity in the area, take a boat tour through the fjords and marvel at the beauty carved out by the work of glaciers over thousands of years.

Nova Scotia

Once you arrive on the mainland of Canada, head to Cape Breton Highlands National Park . The park is home to the Cabot Trail , which has been continuously named one of the most beautiful drives in the world .

Prince Edward Island

It’s possible to drive through PEI in one day, and it’s well worth a stop. Along the way, you’ll find beautiful sandy beaches alongside red cliffs and wind-sculpted sand dunes. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to stay a couple of days longer and soak up more of the East Coast Canadian charm and fresh lobster.

New Brunswick

Opt for a stop further South in Canada’s largest city, Toronto , where you can explore Canada’s only urban National Park—Rouge Park. Or continue driving west and your road trip will take you to Algonquin Provincial Park .

Covering over 8000 square kilometers of rugged Canadian Shield, Algonquin is home to lakes, rivers, forests, and a diverse wildlife population. It’s one of the best places in Canada to go canoeing, with over 1600 km of canoe routes that follow lakes, streams, and portage trails.

Ontario is large, so get ready for a long drive ahead to the next national park. But the scenery will continue to impress, as your road trip takes you through stunning alpine forests and some of the largest lakes in the world.

The next stop will be Pukaskwa National Park , located on the beautiful Lake Superior in Northern Ontario. Explore the backcountry coastal hiking trails, where you can walk over a Suspension Bridge overlooking Chigamiwinigum Fall. This park is also a great opportunity to see the culture and heritage of The Anishinabe First Nation.

Saskatchewan

From Banff, take the scenic way to Jasper National Park through the Icefields Parkway. National Geographic named this one of the best road trips in the world, and it lives up to its reputation. You will pass through ancient glaciers, cascading waterfalls, and emerald lakes. The drive has many points of interests along the way including Lake Louise, Athabasca Falls , and the Columbia Icefield.

Once in Jasper, you can continue to enjoy the beauty of the surrounding Rocky Mountains . Jasper is one of the best places to visit in Alberta , and a great place to witness the Northern Lights. It’s also one of the best places to see wildlife in Canada. Bears, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and elk are all common in the area.

From Jasper, you can either continue your way down to British Columbia via Mt. Robson Provincial Park, or return to Banff via the Icefields Parkway—the drive is so beautiful you won’t mind doing it twice.

British Columbia

After all the fun in the Rocky Mountains, your Canada road trip heads through BC to Swartz Bay. There, you can board the ferry to take you to Victoria Island. The island will be your last stop— Pacific Rim National Park Reserve . There, you can enjoy a completely different side of Canada. Hike through the magical rainforests, kayak with killer whales, or surf in the Pacific water.

Where to Stay

If you don’t have your own equipment or want to try a night of glamping, Parks Canada offers some unique options. Try renting a yurt or OTENTiks , a cross between a tent and a cabin. Check the website to see what accommodations are available in the park you’re visiting. If you’re after a more luxurious experience, many of the parks offer high-end hotels nearby you can stay in at night.

Transportation

With the nature of a road trip, you will need a car to complete this journey. An economy car is fine for getting around Canada’s 10 provinces, as the roads are generally in good condition. Of course, renting a larger car or campervan will give you more comfort during the trip. Use RentalCars.com to find the best rates for your trip .

How Long to Road Trip

While it is possible to drive across Canada in one week, if you want to stop at all these parks and enjoy what they have to offer, I recommend a minimum of three week. Ideally, the longer the better, as there is no shortage of outdoor adventure and fun to experience throughout the parks. This road trip would be the perfect way to spend a summer in Canada.

By the end of the journey, you will have gone from the Atlantic Coast to Pacific, through the Maritimes, Lakes, Prairies, and the Rocky Mountains. It will take you through almost half of Canada’s National Parks , and give you a true sense of Canada’s wild beauty and diversity. So grab a Canada National Geographic Map to to help guide your trip, then get traveling.

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Home » North America » Canada » Best Road Trips in Canada (Can’t-Miss Stops in 2024)

Best Road Trips in Canada (Can’t-Miss Stops in 2024)

Canada is famously vast. It’s the second-largest country in the world and naturally encompasses a whole lot of landscapes. From the epic Canadian Rockies and grasslands, to the winding coastlines of Nova Scotia, road trips are the best way to see it all.

Canada is so large, it can be intimidating to try and tackle it with your own four wheels. That being said, it’s easy to break a road trip in Canada into bitesize sections.

This guide is here to show you how to do it! It is chock full of all the information you need for an epic road trip – along with some itineraries and must-see sights. Get the motor running, and head out: adventure awaits.

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Why Roadtrip in Canada?

Driving in canada, road trip route: calgary to vancouver, road trip route: cabot trail, road trip route: viking trail, newfoundland, insurance in canada, what to pack for a road trip in canada, final thoughts on the best road trips in canada .

Why should you choose to take a road trip to explore Canada ? Not only will you get to explore the untrodden-path, you will get to see a side of the country that regular ol’ tourists don’t see – and we love that!

• Public transport doesn’t travel far enough – Canada may be a developed country with an impressive infrastructure to match, but out in the wilderness it’s not exactly well connected. There are some super remote destinations in Canada, many of which simply cannot be reached by public transport. 
• You can explore off-the-beaten-track destinations and experience the ‘ real ‘ Canada – One of the best things about a road trip in Canada is that you can see a lot of sights that are totally under the radar. Visiting remote places will give you a look into local life. 
• You can travel at your own pace – While you can opt to join a tour, you won’t have the freedom to explore. You’ll be taken to viewpoint after viewpoint, herded along with other tourists. Fine for some, but if you like going at your own speed, then a road trip is the way to go. 
• The national parks in Canada are best visited on a road trip – Having your own set of wheels doesn’t only mean you’ll be able to go at your own speed; it also means you’ll be able to spend time hitting up epic sights along the way. The national parks in Canada are filled with highways and scenic roads, with opportunities to stop off at magnificent viewpoints.
• Canada ain’t cheap – We know Canada is expensive . It goes without saying that transportation in the country is pricey. Renting a car rather than shelling out for train travel and tours is going to help your traveling budget go a little further.

Oh, one more thing! You’ll want to stay connected on your road trip, so grab yourself an eSim for Canada before you travel.

Renting a Car in Canada

Given its size, driving in Canada can be daunting. But it is pretty simple, Canada has a network of well maintained highways. The thing you’ll probably want to pay attention to is the weather, especially on some of the country’s more winding mountainous routes.

Obviously, you’ll need a car. Luckily, hiring a car in Canada is straightforward. There are large, internationally renowned rental companies that offer a selection of different vehicles.

You’ll want to book in advance during popular high season (i.e. summer) to avoid being disappointed or paying over the odds. You’ll also need to consider:

• You need to be at least 21 to rent a car. Anywhere in Canada, if you’re under 25, you will be paying a young drivers’ surcharge, the cost of which varies.
• You’ll need a credit card for the deposit. The price of the deposite varies depending on the type of vehicle and length of rental (anywhere from $100 to $1,000).
• Additional driver charges depend on the company and rental agreement. On average you’ll have to pay an extra $10 per day for an additional driver.

Insurance is a must! Though many rental companies offer CDW (Collision Damage Waiver) among other built-in policies, it’s worth making sure you’re covered by additional personal accident insurances, or things like theft.

Don’t have a car? Well, we’re going to have to sort that out!  Use  rentalcars.com  to find the best deals  on the web and save heaps of cash!

Road Rules in Canada

Canada is incredibly safe , and the roads are just the same. Any good, experienced driver will find driving in Canada pretty simple. They drive on the right side of the road, have – mostly – automatic cars, and the road rules are pretty straightforward. They may change province to province, but the main standards are the same across the country.

Speed limits are in kilometres, and vary between provinces. As a general rule of thumb, urban areas have a speed limit of 50 km/h, and rural areas 80 km/h.

Pedestrians have right of way on crosswalks. You won’t necessarily be fined, but you might get some pissed off yells.

There are some weird road rules:

• In Ontario, sleighs must have at least two bells. You won’t be driving a sleigh, but it’s a fun driving fact.
• If a school bus stops, you also have to stop – at least five metres from it. Don’t overtake without being very cautious.
• When you are overtaking on Prince Edward Island, you have to honk – it’s the law. But locals say it isn’t actively enforced.
• You may find some road signs only in French. Brush up on your français, or have a passenger ready to Google translate!
• From: Calgary
• To: Vancouver
• Total Distance: 971 km
• Days: 7 days
• Top Road Trip Stops: Banff National Park, Yoho National Park, Lake Revelstoke, Sicamous, Othello Tunnels

One of the best road trips to take in Canada is embarking on the Trans-Canada Highway. It’s an impressive 7,821 kilometre route, but we aren’t suggesting you tackle it all.

The most accessible section of the highway is from Calgary to Vancouver . On the drive you’ll pass through big hitters like Banff and Yoho National Parks, and wind through the awe-inspiring Rogers Pass from Golden to Revelstoke. Then it’s onward to Kamloops, Hope and finally, Vancouver.

Wear a seatbelt and don’t forget your swimsuit – it’s time to head out on the highway!

Day 1: Calgary to Banff (1.5 hours)

Your first day on this Calgary to Vancouver jaunt kicks off in Calgary, obviously.. heading to Banff National Park. Today’s drive isn’t a long one, and the scenery is nothing short of epic! Expect towering peaks, glassy lakes and jaw-dropping views.

Before you leave Calgary, spend some time soaking up the city’s history and grabbing all the road trip essentials you’ll need – we are talking snacks and drinks.

Swing by Fish Creek Provincial Park, or get an awesome view of the city from Calgary Tower. You can even see the Canadian Rockies in the distance!

• Best stops: Calgary Tower, Fish Creek Provincial Park
• Where to eat: The Happy Camper Café & Bar , Maclab Bistro
• Where to stay: Banff Original Cowboys Bed & Breakfast

Day 2-3: Banff to Golden (2 hours)

Congratulations, you’ve arrived in Banff – one of the most beautiful places in Canada . It’s time to soak up the sheer beauty of the National Park. You can make the most of this gorgeous landscape by spending two nights camping among the majestic nature.

Go hiking, hit up waterfalls, go kayaking, or simply just take it easy enjoying the amazing food and local shops in Banff Town. Lake Louise is a particular stunner, with some easy trails around it, so don’t miss out! Base yourself around Lake Louise for an incredible stay.

On the second morning, it’s time to head out. You’ll be heading to Golden on a notably spectacular portion of this road trip. There’s not a load of driving to do on this day, so you can take it easy, winding along the road as it slices through the magnificent Yoho National Park.

You’ll have ample time to make stops, check out the breathtaking Emerald Lake and, for waterfall fans, there’s Takakkaw Falls , the second-highest waterfall in Canada.

Once in Golden, nature-lovers will be in their element. This picturesque town nestled in the Canadian Rockies is literally surrounded by national parks! Kick back at an Airbnb , enjoy local food, and get a good night’s sleep. There’s more adventures to come.

• Best stops: Lake Lousie, Banff Town, Yoho National Park, Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls
• Where to eat: Trailhead Cafe , Bill Peyto’s Cafe
• Where to stay: The Golden Pastoral

Day 4: Golden to Revelstoke (2 hours)

For day 4 you’ll be carrying on along the Trans-Canada Highway. Specifically, you’ll be navigating Rogers Pass. This is one of the most amazing mountain crossings in British Columbia, taking you high among the peaks of Glacier National Park. For numbers nerds, that’s an elevation of 4,534 feet (1,382 metres).

This route will lead you through a total of five tunnels, built to protect the road from avalanches. Yes, Rogers Pass can be a bit hair-raising if you’re not a seasoned driver, or if you’ve not driven on mountain roads before, but trust us – it’s worth it.

Make sure to stop by the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre on your way. The mountain passage was first “discovered” by A. B. Rogers in 1881, and was used by the Canadian Pacific Railways four years later.

Again, take your time driving this route. It’s an exciting road with bucket list views! You may want to spend some time at Mount Revelstoke National Park before heading to your final stop in Revelstoke. It’s a small but attractive swathe of forest with hiking trails. You could even take a detour up to Lake Revelstoke (if you’ve got a picnic packed, it’s an ideal lunch spot).

• Best stops: Mount Revelstoke National Park, Lake Revelstoke, Rogers Pass
• Where to eat: Jita’s Cafe Indian Kitchen
• Where to stay: Cozy Nature Cabin

Day 5: Revelstoke to Kamloops (2.5 hours)

The next step is a bit of a longer drive, even though it’s only two and a half hours. You can still take it easy, cruising along the route as it takes you past mountains and through ecological reserves. For this portion of the road trip, you may want to leave a little earlier. There’s plenty to see, even if the highest peaks are behind you now.

Make sure you hit up the postcard town of Sicamous. This slice of Rockies paradise sits between Mara Lake and Shuswap Lake. If the weather’s good, stop for a while at Sicamous Beach Park. You may not think swimwear is a Canada road trip essential, but it most definitely is come summer.

Further along the Trans-Canada Highway lies the busy town of Salmon Arm. Like Sicamous, it’s enviably pretty and boasts enough hiking trails to keep you there a while. The Christmas Island Trail, for example, offers views of the waters edge and hilly landscape.

Salmon Arm also has some top eateries, so stay for lunch (we also recommend sampling some top-notch local ice cream).

The final leg of this day takes you curving around sparkling lakes, grasslands and contoured forests all the way to the city of Kamloops. 

• Best stops: Sicamous Beach Park, Shuswap Lake, Salmon Arm, Christmas Island Trail
• Where to eat: Top Jimmy’s Canoe Beach Cafe , Cafe on the Bay
• Where to stay: Homey Private Room

Day 6: Kamloops to Hope (2.5 hours)

It’s another longer drive today. Kamloops to Hope is 2.5 hours, so not a crazy slog, you can take your time. The scenery is not quite as dramatic, but is still incredibly vast as you swoop down into flat, pine tree-laden country with endless skies.

Along the way, there are a lot of stop-off points where you can spend time discovering this part of the Trans-Canada Highway. Lac Le Jeune Provincial Park and its titular lake is the perfect break to take a refreshing dip.

You’ll be passing through places like Merritt, a city that feels like a small town, as well as other local settlements nestled in the landscape. Before you arrive in Hope, the road cuts through Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park.

Here you can hike through old train tunnels that once formed part of the Canadian Pacific Railway. They’re officially know as the Othello Tunnels and, as well as a unique hiking experience, they have some awesome views of Coquihalla River below.

• Best stops: Merritt, Lac Le Jeune Provincial Park, Coquihalla Canyon Provincial Park
• Where to eat: Cafe Canada , Home Restaurant
• Where to stay: River Lodge

Day 7: Hope to Vancouver (1.5 hours)

We’ve come to final day of this Canada road trip. Finishing with a drive from Hope to Vancouver, your final destination. This section of the highway follows the meandering Fraser River, with epic views to match, as it winds its way to British Columbia’s biggest city.

It may be a short-ish drive, but there are a lot of places to stop off. Harrison Hot Springs is one of them. This small community, tucked away on the edge of Harrison Lake, is famed for its namesake hot springs (public and private).

Nearby is the pretty Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park, where it’s a simple matter of an easy hike to a glistening waterfall.

Eventually, you’ll make it to the buzzing cosmopolitan metropolis of Vancouver. The fun is most certainly not over. Here you can stay in Vancouver for a few days (or more) exploring the city. There’s history at Gastown, a thriving Chinatown, and nature to be explored on the doorstep. Enjoy!

• Best stops: Harrison Hot Springs, Bridal Veil Falls Provincial Park
• Where to eat: Cultivate Cafe Agassiz Corner Cafe
• Where to stay: The Nook

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

• From: Sydney
• To: Baddeck 
• Total Distance: 339 km
• Days: 4 days
• Top Road Trips Stops: Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Rusty Anchor Restaurant, Lakies Head

The Cabot Trail is a renowned Canadian driving route. It’s an iconic part of the lesser-visited Cape Breton Island, the northern section of Nova Scotia. Named after the explorer John Cabot, driving the trail offers wide, ocean views, rugged coastline, highlands and riverside idylls.

The star of the show here is Cape Breton Highlands National Park, but truth be told it’s all beautiful – from its natural credentials, to the cute villages and delicious eateries. It may not be a very long journey, but this loop is one of Canada’s best road trips for countryside coastline charm.

Day 1-2: Sydney to Chéticamp (2 hours 15 min)

For the first day on the Cabot Trail, you’ll be starting things off in Sydney. It’s the largest hub on Cape Breton Island, with a ton of history and a picturesque harbour side for strolling. A lot of people arrive by boat because of the big port. It’s a logical place to start this Canadian road trip.

The ‘official’ start of the Cabot Trail is Englishtown. This is where you will be heading from Sydney, along a stretch of the Trans-Canada Highway, crossing over inlets and sections of craggy coastlines. Take a break in Englishtown, if you like – it’s scenic, but don’t expect ice cream parlours.

Continue onward towards the Middle River Wilderness Area. This lesser-trodden part of Nova Scotia is a highland plateau cut through with deep ravines and punctuated with grasslands. There’s some easy-access hikes if you want to stop and stretch your legs for a bit.

From here, follow Cape Breton’s west coast, soaking up sea views to your left. It’s a pretty mind-blowing drive as you make your way to the charming town of Chéticamp. Make sure to head down to the waterfront where you can spend the evening wining and dining (we recommend the local lobster). The Chéticamp Harbour Lighthouse is beautiful for photo ops.

• Best stops: Middle River Wilderness Area, Cheticamp Waterfront
• Where to eat:   Dancing Goat Cafe & Bakery , Lobster Galley
• Where to stay: Seaside Nook

Day 3: Chéticamp to Dingwall (1 hour 15 minutes)

Start your day bright and early so you can make the most of the continuing scenery of the Cabot Trail. You can stop by Aucoin Bakery in Chéticamp for fresh breakfast delights, and supplies for a picnic.

Just out of town you’ll find the Skyline Trail. This well maintained hiking trail is one of the most iconic hikes in the Cape Breton Highlands National Park. It is straightforward hike, and fairly easy, even for casual hikers. You will get some of the incredible coastline views that Cape Breton is famous for. You might even spot a moose or two along the way!

Time to hit the road again, continuing through Cape Breton Highlands. This is probably the least populated part of the Cabot Trail, so make the most of the natural beauty – stopping for photos, and to marvel.

Interested in whales? Stop off at the Whale Interpretive Center to learn more about the marine mammals found in this part of the world. It is close by to MacKenzie Mountain Look-off, a scenic spot even if you can’t glimpse whales (whale watching season is May to mid-October).

Rusty Anchor Restaurant is a Cabot Trail must!

Full of oysters, or not, the rest of your short but stunning drive will be making your way to Dingwall. If you’re interested in history, stop at the Lone Shelling: an old Scottish hut surrounded by 350-year-old maple trees.

• Best stops: Skyline Trail, Cape Breton Highlands National Park, MacKenzie Mountain Look-off
• Where to eat:   L’abri café , Aucoin Bakery , Rusty Anchor Restaurant
• Where to stay: The Dingwall Waterside Solar Cottage

Day 4: Dingwall to Baddeck (2 hours)

Dingwall is an idyllic spot. You don’t have to leave right away, so make the most of it. Dingwall Beach is a sandy stretch of shoreline that should be strolled and enjoyed. Some say it’s the most beautiful beach in Cape Breton – we’ll let you be the judge of that.

There are a handful of hiking trails in the area too. White Point Trail winds along the cliffs and has some awesome viewpoints; a few inclines, but nothing too strenuous.

Once you’ve had your fill of Dingwall, continue on the Cabot Trail. You’ll be on the other side of the peninsula now. Soon enough you’ll be at Lakies Head, a must-visit stop-off point, complete with incredible rock formations. The dramatic coastline jostles with a whole roster of places to stop: King’s Point Beach, Middle Head, Ingonish Beach and St Ann’s Provincial Park (a great picnic spot) to name a few.

Eventually you’ll be winding your way to Baddeck. This is the ‘traditional’ end point for the Cabot Trail. You can stay here a while and continue exploring the area, or drive on and head back to Sydney.

Set on the shore of Bras d’Or Lake, Baddeck is a historic, laid-back village with a chilled appeal all of its own.

• Best stops: Dingwall Beach, White Point, Lakies Head, King’s Point Beach, Ingonish Beach, St. Ann’s Provincial Park
• Where to eat:   Clucking Hen Cafe & Bakery, The Dancing Moose Cafe
• Where to stay: The Worn Doorstep Guesthouse

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

• From: Deer Lake
• To: L’Anse aux Meadows
• Total Distance: 526 km
• Top Road Trips Stops: Gros Morne National Park, Tablelands, The Arches Provincial Park, L’Anse aux Meadows

The first Europeans to land in North America were the Vikings. Their settlements are what you’ll be experiencing on this epic trip in one of the most starkly beautiful slices of the country. If you’re wanting to take a road trip in Canada, and like history, this is one for you.

The route will take you from Deer Lake to Rocky Harbour (through a UNESCO national park), onward to Port Saunders, then to Flowers Cove, and finally L’Anse aux Meadows. Brush up on your Scandinavian history and get ready to hit the road!

Bonus. If you’re looking for some relaxation along the way, there are some of Canada’s best yoga retreats in Newfoundland.

Day 1: Deer Lake to Rocky Harbour (1 hour)

Deer Lake is the starting line for a pretty epic Viking Trail, one of Canada’s best road trips.

Heading up Highway 430 is how you’ll start things off. Driving past natural beautiful spots like Trout River and Bonne Bay, as you make your way towards Newfoundland’s west coast.

You’ll also be driving through the UNESCO-recognised Gros Morne National Park. It’s an utterly stunning part of Newfoundland, if not the whole of Canada! There are countless hiking trails here, such as the 8-hour Gros Morne Summit hike.

If you want to spend another night in Rocky Harbour to tackle this, and other, treks, we say go for it.

One of the coolest parts of the national park are the Tablelands. Located between Trout River (stop for quaint fishing village vibes) and Woody Point, it’s a barren swathe of land made up of part of the earth’s mantle that was forced upwards by tectonic action. It’s actually the place where the theory of tectonics was formed! Pretty cool.

Rocky Harbour itself is the jumping off point for Gros Morne, with a selection of accommodation and eateries – or you could opt to camp in the national park.

• Best stops: Gros Morne National Park, Tablelands, Trout River
• Where to eat:   Sunset Cafe Sweet Rock Ice Cream
• Where to stay: The Sunken Dory

Day 2: Rocky Harbour to Port Saunders (2 hours 15 minutes)

Say so long to Rocky Harbour, as you hop back on Highway 430 and head into the wilds of northern Newfoundland. Along the way, the route passes through a number of tiny fishing villages. 

Day 2’s drive isn’t too long, you can afford to take it slowly and enjoy the landscape without rushing things. You have time to stop off – how about one of those fishing villages? Parsons Pond is a good one. Backed by hulking mountains and surrounded by waterways, it’s a charming place with a few cafes and eateries to satisfy a hungry traveller.

Things will get very rural, very quickly. Soon enough, it’ll just be you, the road, and places like The Arches Provincial Park. Further north, there’s also Table Point Ecological Reserve for yet more stunning coastline and rock formations. Don’t expect to see any other road trippers around!

You will pass River of Ponds Lake, and take twists around Hawke’s Bay, all the way to Port Saunders. This small community is a peaceful base for the night, it’s near Port au Choix National Historic Site: one of a handful of known former Viking settlements. 

• Best stops: Parsons Pond, The Arches Provincial Park, Table Point Ecological Reserve, Port au Choix National Historic Site
• Where to eat:   Sunrise Bakery and Cafe , Back Cove Café ,
• Where to stay: A Wave From It All Cottage

Day 3: Port Saunders to Flowers Cove (1 hour 10 minutes)

North – that’s the direction you’ll continue to drive from Port Saunders as you make your way along this Viking-themed road trip. Things get more and more remote the further you drive; think little hamlets, forested landscapes and bridges over stark inlets.

The drive to Flowers Cove isn’t very long at all, so you’ll have plenty of time to stop off and appreciate just how remote this part of Newfoundland is. One particularly picturesque spot is The Marjorie Bridge & Thrombolites Walking Trail.

Featuring an iconic covered bridge, this trail gives you the chance to see thrombolites: a very rare type of fossil structure. You may even be lucky enough to spot an iceberg in the distance! The small community of Flowers Cove is just a stone’s throw from this prehistoric nature spot.

• Best stops: The Marjorie Bridge & Thrombolites Walking Trail
• Where to eat:   L & E Restaurant
• Where to stay: The Coles House

Day 4: Flowers Cove to L’Anse aux Meadows (1 hour 30 minutes)

Your final day on the Viking Trail brings you to the main event – L’Anse aux Meadows. This archaeological site is located on the northernmost point of Newfoundland, and marks the place where, roughly a thousand years ago, Viking explorers were the first Europeans to land on North American soil.

Structures excavated at this UNESCO World Heritage Site date back to 1021! History nerds will be in their element. But the landscape is super pretty around here, too – vast and strikingly beautiful. 

It’s definitely worth spending some time wandering around. It’s open from June to November. If you need any essentials, head to nearby St. Anthony. This is the main hub for the northern part of Newfoundland.

If you’ve got a little bit more time, join Highway 432 and cruise along the eastern side of the peninsula for charming towns and oodles of natural scenery. You could even take the ferry to even more remote Labrador from St. Barbe.

• Best stops:  L’Anse aux Meadows, St. Anthony
• Where to eat:   Burnt Cape Cafe , Daily Catch Restaurant
• Where to stay: Snorri Ocean Side Cottage

Let’s be honest, sorting out car insurance for your rental car is probably the least fun thing about a road trip in Canada. To make things run a bit more smoothly, here’s what you need to purchase at or before the rental desk.

A Collision Damage Waiver/Super Collision Damage Waiver will usually be included in with your car booking. A Third Party Liability is an optional extra, which can be purchased online before arriving to pick up your car. Personal Accident Insurance is also optional, which should cover any injuries to you and any passengers.

Roadside Assistance is also an extra to consider which can be purchased online. Consider taking a peek at RentalCover.com before you sign on the dotted line.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Active Roots Money Belt

This is a regular looking belt with a concealed pocket on the inside – you can hide up to twenty notes inside and wear it through airport scanners without it setting them off.

Grayl Geopress Water Bottle

Always travel with a water bottle – it’ll save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl geopress is a true behemoth amongst water bottles acting as a purifier AND temperature regulator – so you can enjoy a cold red bull, or a hot coffee, no matter where you are.

Active Roots Microfiber Towel

Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

A decent head torch could save your life. If you want to explore caves, unlit temples, or simply find your way to the bathroom during a blackout, a headtorch is a must.

Active Roots Camping Hammock

Taking a tent backpacking is not always practical but hammocks are lightweight, cheap, strong, sexy (chicks dig hammocks), and allow you to pitch up for the night pretty much anywhere.

Hanging Toiletry Bag

I always travel with a hanging toiletry bag as it’s a super-efficient way to organise your bathroom stuff. Well worth having, whether you are hanging it from a tree whilst camping, or a hook in a wall, it helps to have quick access to all your stuff.

Canada is pretty much made for road tripping! Whether it’s the rugged coastline of Cape Breton or the barren wilds of Nova Scotia, eastern Canada has epic driving routes aplenty.

Let’s not forget the mountains and wide open skies of the Calgary to Vancouver leg of the Trans-Canada Highway.

Whichever road trip you choose, there’s no denying the vast landscapes of Canada and the countless adventures to be had if you simply hit the road and start driving.

• Our in-depth Backpacking Canada guide has heaps of info for your trip.
• Check out where to stay in Canada for some dope accommodation. 
• Plan your road trip around the most beautiful places in Canada to visit.
• This guide to the National Parks of Canada will also help you plan your itinerary. 
• Keep things affordable with our guide to a budget trip to Canada .
• If you’re looking for unique places to stay have a look at the best Airbnb’s in Canada .
• Check out the best hostels in Toronto for the start of your epic trip.
• If you’re continuing over the border check out the best road trips in the USA next.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Sheridan Cahoon

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North America

Canada's 10 best road trips

Canada's wild expanse of breathtakingly beautiful landscapes stretching across vast distances make it perfect for a road trip.

Whether you're looking for a short scenic drive near you or a multi-day action-packed road trip, Canada has some of the best driving options in the world. Here's our top ten to get you started.

Dempster Highway, Northwest Territories

Start – Dawson City; End – Inuvik; Distance – 457 miles (736km)

This classic trip takes you far beyond the Arctic Circle through some of northern Canada's most pristine scenery; a worthy contender for Canada's most scenic and challenging drive.

It's a meditative experience; for most of the time you're alone with the road, entirely self-reliant and aware of your own smallness compared to the vastness of the landscape.

It passes through dense boreal forest and bare tundra, and rises gently between snow-tipped mountains.

In darker months, you may see the northern lights dancing overhead, but road conditions are best between June and September. It's an unpaved, partially potholed road with treacherous muddy sections.

Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

Start and end – Sydney; Distance – 261 miles (420km)

This is the big one: the looping, diving, dipping roller-coaster of a road snaking its way around the northern tip of Cape Breton, with epic views of rolling seas, mountain passes and thick forests.

If you're lucky – there’s the chance to spot a moose, eagle or even a whale en route.

Completed in 1932 to link Cape Breton's isolated coastal communities, people have been looping the loop for the last nine decades, and the trail remains as popular as ever.

Traversing the edge of the Cape Breton Highlands National Park, it's home to some of the province's grandest scenery, richest wildlife and best hiking trails.

Icefields Parkway, Alberta

Start – Jasper; End – Lake Louise; Distance – 142 miles (230km)

There are amazing road trips, then there's the Icefields Parkway, a 142-mile-long ribbon of asphalt passing through some of Canada's most elemental and pristine landscapes en route.

Giant mountains, mammoth moose, craning trees and gargantuan glaciers brood moodily from the sidelines.

You can also travel it with a challenging multi-day bike ride, giving you more time to contemplate stop offs at cerulean Peyto Lake, powerful Athabasca Falls and the hikeable Athabasca Glacier.

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9 Scenic Canada Road Trips Within 2 Hours of the U.S. Border

By Caleigh Alleyne

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

After over a year of border restrictions, Canada is now allowing fully vaccinated Americans to visit —and a U.S. to Canada road trip is a great way to take advantage, while also avoiding the often-crowded airport experience. For travelers looking to head north of the border this summer in the privacy of their own car, these are nine scenic routes that we love, with tips on where to stay, eat, and more. The best part? Each of these Canada road trip itineraries has starting points in the U.S., so you can enjoy every bit of the drive.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Ontario's Niagara Horseshoe Falls

Niagara Parkway: Buffalo, New York to Toronto, Ontario

Just across the border from Buffalo, New York, lies the city of Niagara Falls , best known for being the home of the Horseshoe Falls on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls. For those looking to extend their trip, travel along the Queen Elizabeth Way (QEW), which will take you from Niagara to downtown Toronto in 90 minutes (if traffic is flowing smoothly).

Where to stop:  Follow the Niagara parkway to the picturesque town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, where you'll spot preserved 19th-century colonial architecture. The Niagara region is also known for having dozens of wineries on the Niagara Wine Trail , and some are as close as 10 minutes to the border.

Where to eat:  The family-run  Ravine Vineyard Estate  has an on-site restaurant and general store-style gift shop offering a la carte selections, and pantry picnic essentials to stock up on between wine tastings.   

Where to stay:  Charming Niagara-on-the-Lake has several landmark properties like the  Harbour House Hotel and Prince of Wales Hotel . If your road trip takes you to Toronto, continue your trip back in time by staying at One King West Hotel & Residence , inside Toronto’s original Dominion Bank skyscraper, which dates back to 1914. 

Lake Louise, Banff

Icefields Parkway: Montana to Banff National Park, Alberta

The quickest way from the American border to Banff National Park in Alberta is to drive through British Columbia. From northern Montana, head north on the BC-93 highway driving through the small towns along the way. The Icefields Parkway links Lake Louise in Banff National Park to Jasper National Park , and whirls drivers through the Rocky Mountains, beside glacier-like icefields and along the Continental Divide. 

Where to stop:  On your way to Banff National Park you'll pass though several mountain towns brimming with outdoor activities, like skiing and waterfalls to visit; Cranbrook, Fernie, and Kimberly are all just off the BC-93 and worth pulling over for. Stop by the village of Radium Hot Springs , which is open to visitors year-round, for a dip in the Lussier Natural Hot Springs, or one of their thermal pools.  

Where to eat:  During your drive on the Icefields Parkway, dine beside the Columbia Ice Field at the  Glacier View Lodge . From the on-site Altitude Restaurant you’ll have spectacular dinner views of the mountains, or you can visit the more-casual Chalet for lunch fare. 

Where to stay:  Known as the “Castle in the Rockies,” the Fairmont Banff Springs was built as one of the original Canadian Pacific Railway hotels in 1886. Today, Fairmont also operates other historic properties in the region that include the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge . 

Mulholland Lighthouse, Campobello Island

Fundy Coastal Trail: Maine to Saint John, New Brunswick

Explore New Brunswick's 286-mile drive along the Bay of Fundy coastline to see the world’s highest tides up-close. Depending on the time of day, you can marvel at the tides two ways: by kayaking on the water when it's at its peak, or by walking on the sprawling ocean floor when the waves have recessed. The Bay of Fundy can be seen from Saint John to Moncton, or plan a visit to the otherworldly Hopewell Rocks , which were formed by tidal erosions and stand alone when the tide goes out. 

Stacey Lastoe

Tonya Russell

Matt Kirouac

Where to stop:  St. Andrews by the sea is the midway point between Maine and the Bay of Fundy. For a short visit, wander down the town's main strip and along its historic pier; if you have some more time, wander through the 27-acre  Kingsbrae Garden  or play 18 holes at the award-winning  Algonquin Golf Course . 

Where to eat:  Dine at the  Saint John City Market , where you'll find locally caught seafood and other seasonal goods. For a sit-down meal, stop by  Bigtide Brewing Company  for craft beer and pub fare. 

Where to stay:  In downtown Saint John, the  Delta Hotel by Marriott Saint John  is conveniently within walking distance to the city’s best attractions and its famed  reversing falls , which appear to swirl backwards into the Bay of Fundy. For the resort experience, book a night at  The Algonquin in St. Andrews  by the sea.

British Columbia's Highway 99

Sea to Sky Highway: Washington State to Whistler, British Columbia

You can drive from the edge of Washington state to the mountains in Whistler in just over two hours, cutting through vibrant Vancouver along the way. The Sea-to-Sky Highway, also known as the BC-99, connects North Vancouver to Whistler on a picturesque coastal drive where the mountain and the water meet. Where to stop: To break up your drive, stop in Squamish at the Sea to Sky Gondola to get an aerial view of the region. If time permits, enhance your visit with a free guided tour to learn about the history of the land on the Spirit Trail .  Where to eat: Head to the Nicklaus North Golf Course to try and snag a spot on the patio at Table Nineteen for scenic views of Green Lake, and the descending floatplanes flying in from Vancouver.  Where to stay: Book a few nights in Whistler to explore this bustling mountain town. Budget-travelers flock to the boutique capsule Pangea Pod Hotel , located in the center of the main strip. For a lakeside respite, the Nita Lake Lodge is a stone’s throw away in Creekside Village.

Quebec City's Old Town

Autoroute 73: Maine to Quebec City, Quebec

While several of the New England states border Québec, the capital city of Québec City is in the Eastern part of the province, closest to Maine. This Francophone city feels more like Europe than other areas of Canada, with narrow alleyways and cobblestone streets. Continue your road trip along the St. Lawrence River to scenic Baie-Saint Paul in Charlevoix for country walks, cheese shops, and the Galerie d'art Iris .  Where to stop: Mark the Montmorency Falls on your map for a quick stop just outside of Québec City, on your way to Charlevoix. The magnificent falls tower 99 feet higher than Niagara Falls and adventurous travelers can explore them by cable car, a suspended bridge , or zip-line. Where to eat: Stop by the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac for an afternoon tea at the castle, or dine onsite at Champlain Restaurant or Sam Bistro.  Where to stay: Auberge Saint-Antoine in the Old Port of Quebec City is a Relais & Châteaux that has preserved relics from the archeological dig within the property. In Baie-Saint Paul, the Hôtel & Spa Le Germain Charlevoix blends a peaceful escape in a charming town with sophisticated amenities and an onsite Spa Nordique Le Germain.

The Southwest Nova Scotia Route: Bar Harbor, Maine to Yarmouth, Nova Scotia

When the  CAT ferry  that travels between Bar Harbor, Maine , and Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, resumes in spring 2022, you can get from coast to coast on this high-speed catamaran in just over three hours. RVs, pickups, SUVs, cars, tour buses, motorcycles, and bicycles are welcome aboard—making this the best way for road trippers to cross the Atlantic Ocean into Canada. Once in Nova Scotia, drive along the jaw-dropping coastline along the 101 to Halifax, and back down the 103 to the ferry in Yarmouth.

Where to stop:  Plan to make several stops during your road trip, in the small coastal towns of Digby, Lunenburg, and Mahone Bay. After Halifax, head to Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse to visit one of the most recognizable sites in Canada.

Where to eat:  A trip to Nova Scotia isn’t complete with indulging in fresh seafood. Swing by one of the stalls at  Halifax Seaport Farmer’s Market , or grab a lobster roll along the water’s edge in one of the small towns that you visit along the way. 

Where to stay:  Break up your drive by staying a night or two in downtown Halifax. For a touch of history, book your stay at the  Lord Nelson Hotel and Suites  by the Halifax Public Gardens. For a contemporary option, check out  Muir, Autograph Collection Hotel –slated to open in fall 2021 .

Emerald Lake, South Klondike Highway

Alaska-Canadian Highway: Alaska to Haines Junction, Yukon

The 1390-mile route along the Alaska-Canadian Highway takes you through the Pacific Northwest, from Seattle to British Columbia, and then into Alaska and the Yukon. For a shorter jaunt, take just the northern leg along the St. Elias Mountains and Kluane National Park and Reserve, traveling north from Alaska through Haines Junction. Where to stop: At the Thechàl Dhâl Visitor Centre , you can pick up hiking maps, register for backcountry camping, and learn more about Kluane National Park and Reserve. During the spring and fall, Dall Sheep can often be seen nearby. This national park is home to Canada’s highest mountain, Mt. Logan, the largest non-polar ice fields on the planet, and is part of one the largest internationally protected areas connected to Tatshenshini-Alsek Provincial Park in British Columbia, and Glacier Bay National Park and Wrangell-Saint Elias National Park in Alaska.

Where to eat: There are several dining options in Haines Junction, but due to the secluded nature of this region you’ll want to pack a few snacks in a bear-proof container to bring on your drive. Rely on on-site dining options during your hotel stay, and healthy breakfasts and hearty family-style dinners at the Mount Logan EcoLodge .  Where to stay: The  Mount Logan EcoLodge  is a rustic escape tucked within the mountains, in a prime location for those wanting to catch a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis during the winter months. 

Yellowhead Highway #16

Yellowhead Highway: North Dakota to Winnipeg, Manitoba

The Yellowhead Highway runs through the Canadian Prairie from Winnipeg, Manitoba, through Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, and Edmonton, Alberta. From the North Dakota border, drive up to Winnipeg for an overnight stay before continuing west toward  Riding Mountain National Park . 

Where to stop:  Spend a day or two in Winnipeg to explore the city. During your visit, see the Inuit art museum  Qaumajuq , in the Winnipeg Art Gallery, the Canadian Museum for Human Rights , and  Assiniboine Park Zoo’s Journey to Churchill exhibit . 

Where to eat:  Under the direction of Chef Mandel Hitzer,  deer + almond 's menu offers a fusion of flavors. Hitzer is also the brains behind the winter pop-up restaurant  RAW:almond , constructed atop Winnipeg’s frozen river. 

Where to stay:  The  Inn at the Forks  is centrally located in the city’s tourist area within walking distance to several restaurants and the  Canadian Museum for Human Rights . 

Red Coat Trail Saskatchewan Badlands: Montana to Saskatchewan

The historic Red Coat Trail along Highway 13 stretches through the Prairie provinces of Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and Alberta. Explore the midway section of the route in Saskatchewan, a short drive away from the Montana-Saskatchewan border. For the closest crossing to Grasslands National Park , head north along the 191 in Montana crossing the border in Morgan. Where to stop: Visit the wide-open plains of Grasslands National Park on your way from the U.S.-Canada border toward Highway 13. This national park is one of the largest Dark Sky Preserves in Canada, making it the perfect place to stargaze during your overnight stay.  Where to eat: Stop by  Harvest Eatery  in Shaunavon, Saskatchewan, located along the Red Coat Trail. Their extensive globally inspired menu serves farm-fresh salads, family-style mains, and a kid’s menu to accommodate young travelers.  Where to stay: Stay within Grasslands National Park in a Parks Canada oTENTik . Found in Frenchman Valley and Rock Creek Campgrounds, the oTENTiks are built in equipped A-frame cabins offering the camping experience without the hassle.

Recommended

Fairmont Chateau Whistler

Lime Tree Hotel

North America Travel Guide

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Driving Across Canada

How to Plan a Canadian road trip: After a 6-week trip across Canada, these two Roadies have insider’s tips you'll find extremely useful. Additional text by Eric Fletcher.

- This post may contain affiliate links. Read our disclosure.

With images of “Easy Rider” and freedom dancing in our heads, my husband Eric and I had fun planning then enjoying a six-week Canada road trip from Quebec to British Columbia this summer. Driving across Canada is a great way to explore the country and road-tripping in Canada is perfect for active travellers. 

We paddled, hiked, and horseback rode, taking our Toyota RAV4 with our home-built canoe, Windigo, secured on the roof.

We stayed in historic B&Bs, funky Parks Canada oTENTiks (hybrid tent-cabin lodgings) and a few motels but this was primarily a camping trip.

Apart from our two-week remote horseback riding expedition in northern British Columbia, by choice, we were online regularly while driving across Canada. 

As a writer-photographer team, this enabled us to incorporate some work into our normal “busman’s holiday” while we saw some fantastic Canadian landmarks and discovered many wonderful things to do in Canada . 

Many of us want to do the grey-nomad thing, where we pack a vehicle and take off exploring.

Here are our tips to assist you in planning hassle-free road trips driving across Canada, including five very different Canadian destination recommendations. 

Besides taking the train across Canada , there’s no better way to feel the heartbeat of Canada than to go driving in Canada.

1- Pre-planning your drive across Canada route

2- online tools for a canada road trip, 3- driving across canada using a gps, 4- mobile phones and calling home, 5- banking and credit card smarts, 6- passports, 7- electronic stuff, 8- planning for your canada road trip, 9- wildlife in canada, 10- planning your house sitting team, 1- the cross-canada drive, 2- the gentle isle: prince edward island, 3- the cowboy trail: calgary to waterton lakes national park, 4- klondike gold rush: whitehorse to dawson city, bc road trip itinerary, where to stay, canada road trip tips.

We always pack paper maps and not only provincial road maps: if we’re venturing into the backcountry, topographical maps, too.

World of Maps has a good selection, while Natural Resources Canada is the creator-dispenser of Canadian “topo” maps.

We also use websites and apps to plan and track our routes while driving across Canada. 

Online tools will show you accurate distances and driving times.

You can divide the total by the number of days to get a sense of how much driving you’ll need to do each day.

Although “all-nighters” are doable, we usually drove four to six hours, to allow for paddling Windigo, hiking, visiting with friends and family and other serendipitous happenings.

From experience, we found that a long day of driving in rain could give us a spare day further along. 

We used Google Maps to plan and track our route because it runs on both our iOS and Android mobile devices.

And, most handily, it can work offline if map data is pre-loaded. 

This is essential for operating in areas with no data connection and to reduce internet costs on our cross-Canada drive.

Useful iOS and Android road trip apps to download are:

• Google Maps to plan your route
• Waze (for planning routes under 1,600kms)
• The Weather Network  for weather forecasts
• Gas Buddy (for finding cheap fuel nearby)

Check to see if your credit card gives you extra points for patronising specific brands of fuel stations.

Consider bookmarking sites that will give you ready access to the information you may need on the fly.

As news junkies, we relied on CBC (Canadian Broadcasting Corporation) Radio’s frequency lookup page to know where to tune the dial for the hourly news.

GPS devices (SatNavs) come installed in most rentals but do check and do take the time to learn how to change the settings to fit your driving preferences.

For example, if it is set to calculate the shortest route, you may want to turn on the “avoid unpaved routes” option to prevent it from including shortcuts using gravel roads.

Canada road trip tip: Learn how to record the current precise location coordinates on your GPS (or on your mobile device).

This proved crucial as while driving across Canada, we arrived at a serious motorcycle accident on a mountainous stretch of highway. 

We captured the precise coordinates, then drove on to the first area with a signal to dial 9-1-1 (Canada’s emergency line) to provide the precise location for an ambulance and police assistance.

Your home cellular provider may have roaming plans that can work in Canada but do check before you leave home as costs may be prohibitive. 

North American mobile services operate at different frequencies than most of the world.

If you have an unlocked tri- or quad-band GSM phone , a better alternative may be to purchase a SIM card .

Some can be purchased before you arrive but you can also purchase pay-as-you-go cards at 7-Eleven convenience stores and Petro-Canada gas stations.

Canada has reasonable data and telephone coverage along our highway systems and free WiFi is often available in places such as Tim Horton’s, Canada’s coast-to-coast coffee and doughnuts shop (which also has good WCs, incidentally).

However, reception on backroads is iffy and in the mountains, well, good luck! Before you leave home, learn how you may be able to pinpoint the location of your device if it is lost.

For most devices, entering *#06# will display the unique IMEI number that identifies your mobile device.

You will need it to activate a SIM or to have the device blocked for use on Canadian wireless networks.

Most jurisdictions in Canada prohibit the use of hand-held devices while driving.

Even if you are able to sync your device to your vehicle for hands-free operation, plan to let your passenger manage it while you focus on the road. 

Check with your home bank to learn which of the Canadian banks have reciprocal arrangements to minimise transaction costs for your debit and credit cards when driving across Canada.

Figure out how your GPS or mobile device mapping tools can locate banks with ATMs (they’re called ABMs or Automated Banking Machines in Canada).

If you use online banking, understand how your security works and refresh your passwords.

Tip: To avoid missing bill payment dates, consider pre-paying accounts before you leave.

Ensure your credit cards are activated for Canada (contact your bank) and advise the credit company so they know you’ll be making purchases abroad.

Put a limit on the amount you will accept on your card in case it is stolen.

Are they current?

Also, ensure the name you book flights with is exactly the same as it appears in your passport.

Regardless of whether you pack a smartphone or a DSLR, laptop or GoPro, battery power is a huge deal – read: being without juice is more than a pain, for some of us it’s a non-starter.

What to do?

Packing a cheap 12V plug to USB adaptor isn’t a great idea as most are limited to 1A output, so can take a long time to charge a device.

Instead, opt for a charger with >1 USB outlet able to deliver 2.1 amps each to charge your devices more reliably and more quickly.

The  Aukey charger we used kept both of our devices topped up as we drove.

For extended power when we were not driving, we packed two external battery packs chargers with USB outlets. 

They were used to keep our cameras and smartphones powered up during our 12-day wilderness horseback trek.

You might also want to consider a portable solar charger to carry with you while in the wilderness.

Canada road trip tip: Take a box to contain your charging gear and keep them out of sight.

Although a winter road trip is doable, unless you’re a keener for snowstorms and ice, plan to come during summer when roads are clear.

Canadian road trip tip In Canada’s North , light (or its absence) needs to be considered. Our northern latitudes aren’t known as “Land of the Midnight Sun” for nothing, where during summer there’s no lasting darkness and in winter, no sunshine.

For useful information, while driving across Canada, check out websites for the Trans-Canada Highway, which lists current weather warnings and maps.

Browse Parks Canada’s National Historic Sites , National Marine Conservation Areas, and Parks. And discover private campgrounds, too, by Googling. 

Finally, no one wants to injure wildlife and Canadians know to be careful at dusk and night particularly during summertime when deer, racoons, skunks, moose and other critters roam.

More unappealing wildlife, such as biting insects, can be fierce while camping so pack repellant sprays and mosquito coils.

Here are some places to see wildlife in Canada . 

Of course, hunting and fishing are a big draw to some but make sure you have the proper licenses, which are different for each province.

Police or game wardens will check and will confiscate your catch plus fine you if you do not comply.

Before leaving home do you have pet sitters, plant sitters or house sitters organised?

Do you have a house manual with emergency numbers?

If you rent your home, create a Letter of Understanding that your tenant and you co-sign, and advise your insurance company or neighbours or friends.  

Best Road Trips in Canada

6,521 km /4,025 miles

Want to get a sense of Canada’s vastness by road and ferry?

At a minimum, take a summer’s three-to-four months and explore Newfoundland, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta and British Columbia.

From a Newfoundland kitchen party to whale watching off Victoria  – and everything in between – you’ll experience Canada’s culture and wilderness.

Plan for several months (or Gap Year adventure) so you can relax, meet locals, experience fabulous festivals and perhaps First Nations Pow Wows and more.

218 km / 135 miles

Sometimes known as “Anne’s Island”, PEI is a dream-come-true destination for a family vacation because of beaches and genuinely laid-back, warm welcomes visitors receive everywhere.

Who doesn’t love Anne of Green Gables?

If you haven’t discovered this red-headed imp of a Canadian heroine, read the book, then visit author L. M. Montgomery’s (and Anne’s) charming farmhouse museum.

Visit Charlottetown’s Confederation Centre of the Arts and learn about how the capital of PEI was the birthplace of Canada in 1867. Then, discover uniquely on-island (or on-ocean) authentic experiences such as “I dig, therefore I clam kayaking adventure .”

258 km / 161 miles

Explore your inner cowboy in Calgary or “Cowtown.”

Visit in early July during the Calgary Stampede to get into the mood, watching roping contests, bucking broncos (horses are bred for this) and country music shows.

Live like a local first by visiting the Alberta Boot Company to buy an authentic Stetson (cowboy hat) and a pair of boots.

Don’t miss the Glenbow Museum to learn about First Nations culture.

Then? Drive Highways 1A west then 22 south of Calgary to visit a host of Canadian cowboy and First Nations sites.

Favourites include Bar U Ranch National Historic Site (the Sundance Kid spent time here hiding from The Law. Remember Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid?

Once world-renowned for its Percheron horse-breeding program, today the 1882 site showcases ranch life in Canada.

Waterton Lakes is a national park where we thoroughly enjoyed exploring on horseback on a two-night camping trip, riding sure-footed steeds from Alpine Stables.

Finally, return to Calgary via Head-Smashed-in-Buffalo-Jump to learn about the bison (buffalo) and how early peoples of the plains stampeded them over precipices to gather meat, hides, bones and seemingly everything from these sacred creatures.

525 km / 328 miles

Whitehorse, named for the Yukon River’s white rapids coursing past the city, is a bustling northern city full of the hopes, vim, and vigour of Canada’s north.

Read this post for things to do in Whitehorse .

Visit the Beringia Centre to learn about the migration of ancient peoples to North America during the last Ice Age and the MacBride Museum of Yukon History to brush up on the Gold Rush.

Then drive the 400 km Dempster Highway to Parks Canada’s National Historic Site of Dawson City – where you can pan for gold, and listen to the “Bard of the Yukon,” Robert A. Service’s poetry… including the renowned poem, “Cremation of Sam McGee ” where you’ll learn: “There are strange things done in the midnight sun/By the men who moil for gold…”

5- BC Road Trip

~2,000 km / 1,250 mi of driving + ferries

• Vancouver to Prince Rupert (~1,500 km/ 940 mi)
• Prince Rupert to Port Hardy via BC Ferry Inland Passage
• Port Hardy to Victoria on Vancouver Island (500 km)
• Victoria to Vancouver via BC Ferry

Vancouver’s lights and excitement drop away while you drive north, north, north to the deep harbour port of Prince Rupert.

The drive is one of Canada’s most magnificent, taking you north through Central Interior historic towns such as 100 Mile House en route to Prince George.

Then northwest, cutting across the Northern Rocky Mountains to Hazelton, Terrace and finally, the port of Prince Rupert.

Insider’s tip: Visit Ks’aan at Hazelton, a First Nations museum for aboriginal culture . Just outside of Prince Rupert, don’t miss the North Pacific Cannery to glean the flavour of what the salmon run once was, with the fishy catch that kept First Nations, Japanese and other workers busy in the now-historic cannery. Once in Prince Rupert quaff a craft beer at funky Wheelhouse Brewing Co.

To complete the circuit, catch the rightly renowned BC Ferry, voyaging southward down the Inland Passage to the northern tip of Vancouver Island, docking at Port Hardy.

We saw humpback whales, osprey (fish hawks) and bald eagles so be sure to pack binoculars.

On-island, visit Port McNeil, leave your car for this day trip, and walk on to the ferry to Alert Bay, a First Nations village where iconic Canadian artist Emily Carr visited and painted village life and totem poles.

Nowadays we can stroll an ecological boardwalk through wetlands and view U’mista Cultural Centre.

Also interesting, south of Port McNeil is Telegraph Cove , right on the ocean.

Camp, hike rainforest paths to the lighthouse (Blinkhorn Trail) or take a guided kayak paddle of the cove.

Highway 19 takes you south for the five-hour drive to Victoria – which is just so English.

Stroll the inner harbour while sailboats’ masts create their merry jingling backdrop and visit the Fairmont Empress for High Tea.

Catch the BC Ferry from Schwartz Bay to Tsawwassen (Vancouver) and your mega-wonderful roadie trip of BC is done. 

Katharine and Eric Fletcher are freelance writers and photographers who live in Quebec and love exploring Canada by road.

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Things to do in Canada

What is canada known for, banff in winter, 20 things to do in ontario, christmas in toronto, 20 things to do in quebec city at christmas, editor's picks, 101 travel quotes – inspiring the journey, 60 luxury escapes for your bucket list, 25 australian landmarks.

Rugged and vast, Canada is a road-tripper's dream. Driving gives you the freedom to travel at your own pace – pull over and take in the scenery along the way or break up the journey with hiking and kayaking.

• 1. The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

2. Vancouver to Tofino, British Colombia

3. regina to saskatoon, saskatchewan.

• 4. Icefields Parkway, Alberta

5. Montréal to the Gaspé Peninsula, Québec

Whether you’re into mountains, beaches or urban heritage, here are five of our favourite routes, to take with your own car or a rental car .

1. The Cabot Trail , Nova Scotia

The Cabot Trail loops 298km around the north of Cape Breton Island in Nova Scotia . The route winds along the coast for much of its length with viewpoints overlooking the North Atlantic.

Locals tout fall as the best time to travel, but the dramatic landscapes of Cape Breton Highlands National Park look good throughout the year. Moose roam the park, where walking trails give you the opportunity to stretch your legs and breathe in the crisp sea air.

Islanders here are proud of their French-influenced Acadian heritage and Celtic ancestry, and love to celebrate it with loud live music in local pubs. Experience it in Chéticamp, a fishing village where you can tuck into locally landed lobster and seasonal seafood.

Be sure to park up in Pleasant Bay and join a cruise to spot whales and seals, and don’t miss the chance to kick off your shoes on the sand close to Ingonish.

Best for: dramatic coastal scenery

How long: 5 days

Not to miss: Discover Cape Breton from Sydney on a small group tour , particularly for those that don't want to drive themselves but still explore the park.

Our favourite accommodation: Ocean View Motel & Chalets - There are around twenty motels and B&Bs in and around Chéticamp with this being one of the best: well-maintained and spacious shingle-clad chalets right by the seashore, opposite Les Trois Pignons.

The Cabot Trail © Cindy Creighton/Shutterstock

This road trip starts with a ferry crossing: board the boat in Horseshoe Bay, Vancouver , and relax for a couple of hours while crossing the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island .

The following 207km drive from Nanaimo to Tofino gives you an opportunity to stop in MacMillan Provincial Park and walk between the mossy trunks of enormous Douglas fir trees, some of which are up to 800 years old. The twisting course of the Pacific Rim Highway makes this a thrilling woodland drive – Kennedy Lake Provincial Park is a popular spot to break for a picnic.

Finally, unwind at Tofino, which is making a name as a surfing destination. Nearby Long Beach stretches for 16km and at Esowista you can meet members of the local First Nations community.

Best for: surfing and woodland walks

How long: 2 days

Your alternative to driving: There's another way to get to Vancouver Island - taking a seaplane ! Incredible views are almost guaranteed, first of the city of Vancouver during takeoff and then the Pacific Rim National Park during the journey and descent.

Our favourite accommodation: Pacific Sands Beach Resort - Designer beach houses and suites sandwiched between tall evergreens and the persistent surf of Cox Bay beach. Guest quarters come with full kitchens and gas fireplaces, and there are thoughtful extras like in-room raincoats and community “s’more roasts” of fire-toasted marshmallows sandwiched between chocolate biscuits (July and Aug). It’s pricey, but breathtaking – worth it if you’re looking to splurge.

MacMillan Provincial Park © Chase Clausen/Shutterstock

Saskatchewan has the reputation for being a flat, prairie province as many drivers experience it only from the Trans-Canada Highway.

Start in Regina , where you can visit the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Heritage Centre and, on Tuesdays from July to mid-August, view Mounties on parade in the Sunset-Retreat Ceremony.

Then, head to Moose Jaw to learn about bootlegging during the Prohibition era, when mobsters ran booze into the USA from the small town.

Continue west, past colourful barns, to Swift Current then up to Lake Diefenbaker for sport fishing and sailing. Spend a couple of days at La Reata Ranch if you like the idea of horse riding on a working cattle ranch.

Arriving into Saskatoon on a weekend means being able to sample the city’s nightlife at its best.

Best for: mounties and western riding

Our favourite accommodation: Delta Hotels by Marriott Bessborough - Built for the CNR in 1931, the Bessborough is an enormous turreted and gabled affair, set in Kiwanis Memorial Park, beside the river. It’s been tastefully refurbished in a French château style, which makes it the city’s most striking building; some claim it’s haunted.

4. Icefields Parkway , Alberta

You can motor along the 232km route of the Icefields Parkway in Alberta in just four hours, but that wouldn’t do justice to the magnificence of the woodland wilderness, waterfalls and jagged mountains either side of the highway.

This route runs between Banff and Jasper, cutting through the Rocky Mountains and skirting through two national treasures, Banff National Park and Jasper National Park . They are the home to the vast Columbia Icefield. Learn about the region’s geology during guided hikes on the Athabasca and Saskatchewan glaciers.

Overnighting at one of Jasper National Park’s campsites means being able to stare at constellations in one of the world’s biggest dark sky reserves.

On sunny days, the sight of snow-capped mountains and blue skies reflecting on the surfaces of the Peyto and Waterfowl will have any keen photographer stopping every five minutes.

Best for: stargazing and glacier walks

How long: 3 days

Not to miss: It's a once in a lifetime experience to see the Canadian Rockies from high up a helicopter . These impressive views will remain with you for a long time.

Our favourite accommodation: The Juniper Hotel & Bistro - Boutique hotel that breaks the predictable mould of most mid-range Banff offerings with its chic, simple and contemporary interiors in a series of chalets (the larger two- and three-bedroom ones offer kitchenettes). The mountain views are among the best from any Banff hotel, but at 2km from the town centre at the foot of Mount Norquay, it’s not central.

Icefields Parkway © outdoorimages/Shutterstock

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Montréal celebrated 375 years since foundation in 2017. The signposted Chemin du Roy tourist route follows the north shore of the St Lawrence River, via heritage sites in villages such as Deschambault and Neuville, to Québec City . It’s easy to spend a couple of days exploring the old town and fortifications, including the Citadelle of Québec.

Gaspé overlooks the Gulf of St Lawrence, at the tip of the peninsula, almost 700km north-east of the provincial capital. Québec’s residents flock here to escape the city and often relax at fishing camps.

Whale-watching trips run from Gaspé and nearby Percé, where a sheer-sided rock juts from the water. If you’re into birdwatching, take a boat to Bonaventure Island to see the vast gannet colonies and almost 300 other seabird species.

Best for: heritage sites and whale-watching

How long: 7 days

Not to miss: The best way to discover Montréal is with a local, like on this small group tour of Montreal's historic city center .

Our favourite accommodation: Auberge William Wakeham - Set in a historic stone house overlooking the bay, this good-looking inn has plenty of charm and exceedingly helpful owners. The rooms vary in size and furnishings, but all have a/c and queen or king beds; the more expensive choices have fantastic views. Breakfast is included, and the elegant dining room is easily the best spot around to sample regional cuisine, made with local ingredients.

Percé © Pinkcandy/Shutterstock

For a road trip across Canada, have a look at our list of the best things to do in Canada so you don't miss the best parts of the country.

Top image: The road 93 "Icefield Parkway" in Autumn Jasper National park, Canada © i viewfinder/Shutterstock

Stuart is an award-winning travel writer whose work has been published in magazines such as National Geographic Traveller, Wanderlust plus Food and Travel. From the north-east of England, he has lived in Germany, India and Portugal. He travels frequently to Canada and the Netherlands. Follow him @goeatdo on Twitter & Instagram .

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The best road trips in Canada

Things to do

At 3.8 million square miles, Canada is the world's second largest country. Which means the best way to see it is to hop in a car and drive . . . and drive. Along the way you'll gape at glacier-carved peaks, bird-filled marshlands and everything in between. There'll be plenty of stops to take in the views, sample local hot spots and rest your road-trip weary head too.

But knowing where to go in such a vast and diverse land might seem daunting. No worries - we've made it easy with this list of best road trips in Canada's 10 provinces and two of its three territories. (To date, there are no roads into  Nunavut External Link Title  or between its communities). Take your pick, start your engine - the open road awaits!

Crowsnest Highway, British Columbia

Stretching from BC to Alberta, the Crowsnest Highway External Link Title passes through breathtaking mountains and charming towns. After departing from the bustling city of Vancouver External Link Title , head toward the Fraser Valley on Highway 1. Stretch your legs after a few hours of driving with a hike at E.C. Manning Provincial Park External Link Title and then get a good night's rest in one of the rooms or cabins at the Manning Park Resort External Link Title . The next day, make your way to the Similkameen Valley and stroll around the many vineyards in Keremeos External Link Title , before continuing your trip to Osoyoos External Link Title -- which is home to the warmest lake in Canada.

Icefields Parkway, Alberta

Thinking about the  Canadian Rockies  for your Canada road trip? Then the 146-mile  Icefields Parkway External Link Title  is your front-row seat to some of the range's most fetching glaciers and turquoise lakes. Leaving the hamlet of Lake Louise in  Banff National Park External Link Title , head north along Highway 93 to savor such sights as mirror-like Herbert Lake, the sweeping Athabasca Glacier and double-barreled Sunwapta Falls. Hang your toque at the newly renovated  Glacier View Lodge External Link Title  on the way up or at Jasper's cozy  Chateau Jasper External Link Title  in  Jasper National Park External Link Title  at route's end. Count on a full day but take a few to explore the icefields and both parks during less-busy spring and colorful fall.

Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan

Exploring Saskatchewan's eclectic  roadside attractions  just got better. Thanks to the 2019 opening of the  Badlands Parkway External Link Title , you can now see  Grasslands National Park External Link Title  on not one but two revealing Canada road trips. From the village of Wood Mountain, drive south to the paved, seven-mile parkway in the park's East Block to glimpse a wild but fragile prairie landscape. Then make tracks to the West Block just south of  Val Marie External Link Title  to spot plains bison, black-footed ferrets, and settler homesteads on the 50-mile-loop  Ecotour Scenic Drive External Link Title . Take one to a few days; 178 miles total.

Interlake Region, Manitoba

Immerse yourself in history and nature on this 186-mile, one-to-three-day journey through  Manitoba 's Interlake region,  straddled by the province's two inland seas External Link Title  of Lake Winnipeg and Lake Manitoba. From the  bustling capital External Link Title  of Winnipeg, make tracks north to  Lower Fort Garry Historic Site External Link Title ,  Oak Hammock Marsh External Link Title , Lake Winnipeg's iconic wooden piers, and swim-friendly  Winnipeg Beach External Link Title . Detour west for the  Narcisse Snake Dens External Link Title  - visit in spring or fall for best viewing - before returning to the lakeshore for Viking-rich  Gimli External Link Title  and  Hecla Village External Link Title . End with a round of golf and overnight at the  Lakeview Hecla Resort External Link Title .

Toronto to Stratford, Ontario

Take in big-city sights and theater-town delights on this two-day sojourn in  southeastern Ontario External Link Title . Spend a day strolling  Toronto External Link Title 's museums and galleries, and a night at the artsy  Gladstone Hotel External Link Title  or chic  Kimpton Saint George External Link Title . Then motor west 93 miles for a dose of  Victorian architecture and live theatre External Link Title  in Stratford, home to the province's annual  Stratford Festival External Link Title .  Along the way, take a peek at Baden's ornate  Castle Kilbride Museum External Link Title .

Montreal to Gaspésie, Quebec

Take a week or more to hit several  Quebec External Link Title  sweet spots on this charming 606-mile drive, which should be on everyone's best road trips in Canada bucket list. Visit  Montreal External Link Title  and  Quebec City External Link Title  - voted forth and first top Canadian cities, respectively, in Travel + Leisure's  World's Best Awards 2021 External Link Title  - before heading northeast along the St. Lawrence River to the  Gasp? Peninsula External Link Title  and its striking Perc? Rock. Watch for whales, caribou and northern gannets - you can't miss their distinctive black-tipped wings. Alternatively, skip the cities for the full-on  Gasp?sie Tour External Link Title  or try one of these  scenic drives .  

Irish Loop, Newfoundland and Labrador

Start with a stroll past colorful row houses in  Newfoundland and Labrador External Link Title 's capital of St. John's, also  North America's most easterly and oldest city External Link Title . Then head south on a 192-mile  coastal loop External Link Title  packed with outdoor adventure and natural wonders. Spot whales and seabirds on a  Witless Bay boat tour External Link Title  or hike by sea stacks and cliffs on the East Coast Trail. Pick up fresh sandwiches and lemonade in  Lighthouse Picnics External Link Title ' historic 1870 lighthouse, then enjoy them outside while watching icebergs float by.

Bay of Fundy, New Brunswick

Explore the wild ways of water on  New Brunswick External Link Title 's  Bay of Fundy External Link Title  - a hot spot on a top Canada road trip. Here, some 150 billion tons of water flow in and out every six hours, making for  the world's highest tides  at up to 50 feet. Ease into this  four-day 140-mile trip External Link Title  by taking tea at  Moncton External Link Title 's quaint 1883  Thomas Williams House External Link Title , then pad about the ocean floor during low tide at the Hopewell Rocks -  eroded tree-topped sandstone formations External Link Title  a.k.a. Flowerpot Rocks. Catch August's Rising Tide Festival in  Fundy National Park External Link Title , and be sure to kayak St. Martins' red-rock  sea caves External Link Title  on the route's last leg. See more on these  road trips .

North Cape Coastal Drive, Prince Edward Island

It might be  Canada's smallest province External Link Title , but Prince Edward Island boasts its fair share of  road trips  too. Foodies in particular will want to wind their way around the  western peninsula External Link Title , sampling the island's fresh bounty on a four-day 217-mile drive. Find out why Prince Edward Island's potatoes are so famous at the  Canadian Potato Museum External Link Title , then fill up on a fully loaded baked spud - choose from lobster, pulled pork and more - at the onsite PEI Potato Country Kitchen. Slurp back  world-renowned oysters External Link Title  at the rustic  Malpeque Oyster Barn External Link Title  during the summer months, and savor mussels and lobster rolls at the  Catch Kitchen + Bar External Link Title . Rinse it all down with a Drag'n Anchor blonde ale at  Moth Lane Brewing External Link Title .

Halifax to the Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

Get your urban fix in the  lively capital External Link Title  of Halifax before striking out for rural Cape Breton Island and the  world-famous  Cabot Trail - considered to be not only one of the best road trips in Canada but in the world. Named after Italian explorer John Cabot, who landed on  these shores  in 1497, the 186-mile coastal loop climbs from sea-swept beaches and sleepy fishing villages to forested slopes and cliff-tops. Plan for a full four days to take in  Baddeck External Link Title  on the shore of  Bras d'Or Lake External Link Title ;  Cape Breton Highlands National Park External Link Title  and its 26 hiking trails; and the  traditional Acadian town External Link Title  of Ch?ticamp.

Dempster Highway, Yukon

Tucked into the northwest corner of Canada, the  Yukon External Link Title  is home to few people (population 38,500), many mountains and 3,100 miles of maintained roads. Of the territory's  go-to road trips , the 458-mile, five-to-seven-day  Dempster Highway External Link Title  delivers the most off-the-beaten-track experience. Load up on supplies and gold-rush history in  Dawson City External Link Title  (think  historic walking tours External Link Title , entertainment and the infamous  Sourtoe Cocktail External Link Title ). Then drive north through wildlife-rich tundra, crossing the Arctic Circle and hopping two ferries on the way to  Inuvik External Link Title  in the Northwest Territories. Catch early fall's red, yellow and orange tundra, winter's ice roads, spring's foraging wildlife and summer's midnight sun.

Inuvik-Aklavik Ice Road, Northwest Territories

Come winter, some 1,245 miles of ice roads are plowed across Canada's vast  Northwest Territories External Link Title . Impassable the rest of the year, these frozen waterways connect 12 towns and their residents to the outside world. If you're up for a more off-beat Canada road trip, make like a local and give ice-road travel a go on the  73-mile stretch External Link Title  - called "pretty and pretty legendary" by the NWT tourism authority - between  Inuvik External Link Title  and the hamlet of  Aklavik External Link Title . Revel in Richardson Mountain views as you cross the Mackenzie Delta. Winter travel in Canada can be unpredictable: drive with caution and  be prepared External Link Title .

Trans-Canada Highway

Got the grit for a grand-slam road trip through Canada? Travel the country from coast to coast on the 4,860-mile  Trans-Canada Hwy External Link Title . Opened in 1962, the  route External Link Title  passes through all 10 provinces and most major cities. Start your journey in the west in Victoria, British Columbia, or the east in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. Either way, take your time (at least two weeks) on the world's longest national road - it's sure to be a trip of a lifetime.

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