Looking to discover the top destinations in Western Canada? This expansive country offers a myriad of attractions for every type of traveler. With its vast landscapes and diverse experiences, Canada is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, history aficionados, and families with children looking for adventure.
For nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts, Canada’s national parks and scenic trails are a dream come true. History enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the rich culture and history of Canadian cities, historical towns, and museums. Families will find a wide array of tours and engaging activities to keep everyone entertained.
One fascinating fact about Canada is that it’s one of the few places in the world where you can observe polar bears in their natural habitat. Given the country’s size, it’s challenging to cover all the incredible sights in one go. Therefore, this guide will focus on some of the must-see spots in Western Canada.
Banff National Park, established in 1885, holds the title of Canada’s oldest national park and is among the oldest in the world. Nestled in the stunning Canadian Rockies, Banff features rugged mountains, turquoise glacial lakes, and over a thousand glaciers. The park is part of the UNESCO Canadian Rocky Mountains World Heritage site and is a top travel destination in the country.
Just 290 km from Banff lies Jasper National Park, the largest national park in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, covering 11,000 square kilometers. Home to majestic mountains, glaciers, lakes, and waterfalls, Jasper also boasts the Columbia Icefield, the largest icefield in the Rockies. Combining a visit to Banff, Jasper, and the Columbia Icefield is highly recommended, with the scenic Icefields Parkway offering spectacular views along the way.
Western Canada is abundant in national parks, and Yoho National Park is another gem worth exploring. Bordering Kootenay National Park to the south and Banff to the east, Yoho covers 1,313 square kilometers. A notable hike is the Iceline Trail, a 21 km path that offers panoramic views of the Yoho and Little Yoho Valleys. Noteworthy sights along this trail include the Daly Glacier, Laughing Falls, and Takakkaw Falls.
Dinosaur Provincial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is nestled in the Red Deer River valley. Known for its rich deposits of dinosaur fossils and striking badlands, the park is a treasure trove for paleontology enthusiasts. With fifty-eight dinosaur species discovered here, it offers a fascinating experience for both adults and children, featuring reconstructed skeletons and ancient fossils.
Vancouver, a major city in Western Canada, boasts world-class museums, sleek glass skyscrapers, abundant green spaces, and a vibrant food scene. A visit to Capilano Suspension Bridge Park and a hike up Grouse Mountain for stunning views are popular activities. Vancouver’s Chinatown is the largest in Canada and one of the largest historic Chinatowns in North America. Don’t miss a trip to Vancouver Island, the largest island on the west coast of the Americas. Start in Victoria, British Columbia’s capital, known for its historic buildings and excellent restaurants. The Butchart Gardens, near Victoria, is a must-see, featuring several themed gardens, including the Sunken Garden and the Japanese Garden. Vancouver Island is also a hiker’s paradise, offering everything from gentle meadow walks to challenging multi-day hikes.
Canada is famed for offering a unique opportunity to see polar bears in the wild. Churchill, located in northern Manitoba on the west shore of Hudson Bay, is renowned as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World.” The best months for viewing polar bears are October and November. Churchill is also a prime spot for witnessing thousands of beluga whales in July and August and is sometimes called the “Beluga Capital of the World.” Additionally, Churchill is an excellent location to view the Northern Lights, with the best visibility during the long, dark nights of February and March.
For a step back in time, visit Barkerville Historic Town, a meticulously preserved 19th-century mining town and world-class heritage site. Restored in the 1950s, Barkerville features over 120 restored or reconstructed buildings. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, watch skilled craftsmen at work, and partake in 1860s-style theater shows and other activities.
Western Canada offers a fantastic mix of natural wonders, historical sites, and cultural experiences, making it an unbeatable travel destination.