cross canada road trip winter

The Ultimate Cross Canada Road Trip Itinerary

Lately, I’ve become obsessed with planning the ultimate cross Canada road trip. And if my 10+ years as a travel blogger can tell you anything, it’s that I absolutely love organizing, planning and researching for big trips, even if I don’t have a definite date for when I will take them.

For most of my travel life, I’ve prioritized new, international locations over exploring my own backyard here in Canada. But during covid when international travel was restricted, I learned to appreciate travel in my home country. So much so that my husband, Colin, and I took an Atlantic Canada honeymoon!

It turns out: Canada is amazing! Or at least the 32 million people who visit my country each year certainly think so.

And so as a Canadian myself, I would love to spend more time discovering this country outside of the cities I’ve lived in and know well, Vancouver and Toronto. I love the idea of going from coast to coast, exploring cities and wildlife, visiting all 10 provinces on a cross Canada road trip!

Which is why I’ve put together an epic 34-stop cross Canada road trip itinerary from Vancouver to St. John’s!

When I was looking up an itinerary for a road trip across Canada, I noticed that many other posts only covered a fraction of the country. I get it, Canada is a big place. But I want to plan a route that drives across all of Canada (even if I can only drive it in small stretches at a time)!

Below I’m sharing my ultimate cross Canada road trip itinerary – from Victoria to St. Johns , from the Pacific to the Atlantic – and all of the stops in between. I’ll dive into the things you must see, what to do if you don’t have enough time to drive across Canada, how to get around and where to go in each destination.

Disclosure: Some of the links below are affiliate links, meaning if you click through and make a purchase, I will earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support!

Table of Contents

Canada road trip FAQs

Is canada good for road trips.

Absolutely! Canada is one of the best countries for road trips. Many people have taken on a Canadian road trip so you’ll find lots of infrastructure like free and paid campsites, rest stops, paved roads, gas stations, restaurants and grocery stores throughout the country. If you’re an English speaker, you’ll have no problem getting around most of Canada.

Canada is also great for road trips because it offers something for everyone. Whether you’re into big cities, natural wilderness, water sports, hiking, biking, shopping, art, food or something else, you can design your Canada road trip around your interests.

How long would a road trip across Canada take?

Canada is a BIG country; it’s the second largest country after Russia. So driving across Canada will take a while! The main route of the Trans Canada Highway, which starts in Victoria, BC and ends in St. John’s, NF, is 7,821 km, making it the fourth longest highway in the world.

It would take 100 hours (4.2 days) of straight driving to complete this route across Canada , which doesn’t account for overnight stops, waiting for ferries, stopping for meals or any sightseeing.

Assuming you don’t want to drive 24 hours a day without stopping, you should give yourself at least three weeks to road trip across Canada – though I’d recommend a couple of months if you have the time . My itinerary below has 34 stops and would probably take 2-3 months to really enjoy.

Because the country is so large, driving across Canada can be daunting. But even if you don’t have time to drive across all of Canada, you can still plan an epic east coast Canada road trip, a shortened Canadian road trip (such as driving from Toronto to Vancouver), a road trip around Atlantic Canada or one on the west coast.

Short on time? Check out my suggestions at the end of this post for mini Canada road trips!   

When is the best time for a Canada road trip?

Despite our reputation, it’s not ALWAYS cold in Canada. In fact, our country gets really stinking hot in the summers! And of course, being such a huge country, the weather varies a lot from coast to coast.

That being said, I wouldn’t attempt a cross Canada road trip in the winter . While places like Vancouver and Victoria might be mild, other places will be freezing, blanketed in snow and no fun to explore – if the roads are even open to let you through!

Summer is a much better time for a Canadian road trip. While the weather will be hot in places, driving across Canada in the summer means you don’t have to worry about snow chains or snow tires. Parks will be open and camping outdoors will be comfortable (if you can find some shade).

Of course, summer is also Canada’s busiest tourism season, so prepare for crowds. Many popular areas, like Banff, will be teeming with people and campgrounds will book up in advance.

I would plan a cross Canada road trip for late spring or early fall . That way, you still get the best weather but hopefully with fewer crowds.

Car vs RV: How should you drive across Canada?

So you want to road trip Canada but now you have to think: how am I actually getting across this huge country?

Unfortunately, public transportation isn’t a great option. We have very limited passenger train routes in Canada and while you can basically cross the country by train with ViaRail, it will be slow, expensive and skip a lot of great stops.

Your choice will probably come down to driving a car with plans to overnight in hotels, motels, tents, Airbnbs, and the like or driving an RV across Canada (or other motorhome/converted van/trailer) that allows you to sleep and live in your vehicle.

Ultimately, I think this comes down to personal preference as there are pros and cons to both .

A car will be cheaper to buy/rent (if you don’t already have one) and fuel up, easier to drive and likely have fewer parts to maintain. But it can be costly to stay in hotels every night and annoying to constantly be packing and unpacking.

An RV will be more expensive to buy/rent (if you don’t already have one) and fuel, plus more cumbersome to drive, but can be convenient for road trippers who want to have their home with them.

When trying to decide, consider your comfort level with driving, how many people are road tripping with you, what kind of accommodation you prefer and, of course, your budget for your cross Canada road trip. If you’ve never RV-ed before, I’d recommend renting one for a shorter trip before trying to drive across Canada.

Need to rent a car for your Canada road trip? Check out Discover Cars! 

My top 5: What to see on a road trip across Canada?

A quick scroll down to my itinerary will show you that there is so much to see on a road trip across Canada. But here my top five picks for stops you can’t miss:

• Stanley Park in Vancouver, BC
• The stunning Banff National Park in Alberta
• Niagara Falls and the surrounding wine country in Ontario
• Old Montreal and Old Quebec City in Quebec
• The Cabot Trail in Nova Scotia

The most popular activities in Stanley Park

• Enjoy this Stanley Park Walking Tour with a guide
• Uncover the best sights of the city during this Stanley Park & Downtown Vancouver Bike Tour
• Experience the natural beauty of Stanley Park in Vancouver on this bike tour

And for everything else you’ll want to see, let’s dive into my full cross Canada road trip itinerary below!

Cross Canada road trip map

The ultimate cross Canada road trip itinerary

Through my extensive research, I found lots of posts that helped to plan a road trip in Canada, but on a smaller scale. Maybe it was just an east coast Canada road trip or a Toronto to Vancouver driving trip.

And while those adventures sound great, I wanted to put together an entire cross country road trip driving the entirety of Canada from east to west. While my road trip itinerary doesn’t cover every inch of Canada, it’s the most comprehensive one I’ve come across!

Below I’ll list every stop on my ultimate cross Canada road trip itinerary, including how long the drive is from the previous stop and what you’ll want to do there. I’ve broken the itinerary up into sections (west coast, prairies, eastern, Atlantic), but they all connect to each other so you can simply continue heading east.

Ready? Let’s drive across Canada!

West coast and Rocky Mountains: BC & Alberta road trip

This portion of the itinerary covers British Columbia and the first part of Alberta along the Rocky Mountains . Stops on this portion of the road trip are:

• Vancouver Island

Vancouver Island, BC

As you’ll see from the Canadian road trip planner map above, I actually start my cross Canada road trip in Vancouver. I live in Vancouver, so it would be a lot easier for me to pack up my car from home and start heading east, rather than back track to the Island.

Plus, I’d love to do a separate BC road trip around Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, like Galiano and Salt Spring Island (perhaps as a practice road trip before we try to drive across Canada!).

But if you’re not from Vancouver, have never been to the Island and want to complete the entire Trans Canada Highway main route, I highly recommend starting your cross Canada road trip in Victoria, BC .

I’ve visited Victoria a number of times and really love it. This charming provincial capital has a beautiful harbour, world-renowned gardens and great food. From there, you can keep exploring more of Vancouver Island.

Must do on Vancouver Island :

• Stroll through Butchart Gardens
• Try surfing in Tofino or check out more things to do in Ucluelet
• Go whale watching

Canadian fun fact: Vancouver Island is an island off the mainland of BC where the provincial capital, Victoria, is found. Vancouver is a city on the mainland on BC. There is no such thing as Victoria Island in BC or a capital city of Vancouver.

However, a reader let me know that there is in fact a Victoria Island located in the Arctic Ocean (thank you, Marlene!), but don’t go there if you’re trying to find Victoria, BC. I know, it’s confusing! 

Vancouver, BC (3 hrs from Victoria)

If you skipped Vancouver Island, your cross Canada road trip will officially start in my home city, Vancouver! Otherwise, you can take a short and scenic ferry ride from Victoria to the mainland.

Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and a highlight of any trip to Canada. Even as a local since 2010, I’m constantly amazed that I get to live in a place with beaches, mountains, city life and incredible food!

Must do in Vancouver :

• Walk or bike along the Seawall to enjoy Stanley Park and city beaches
• Shop and dine on Granville Island
• Take a day trip to Whistler or another local ski mountain
• Eat delicious sushi!

Another incredible thing to do in Vancouver (and all of Canada) is discover our indigenous history and culture. My friend Melanie put together this awesome post with lots of ideas for enjoying Indigenous culture in Vancouver!

The Okanagan, BC (4.5 hrs from Vancouver)

From Vancouver we’re heading into BC’s interior to visit the Okanagan Valley. The Okanagan is BC’s wine country and lake country, known for beautiful wineries, water sports and, unfortunately, summer wildfires.

If you’re visiting this area in the summer, make sure you’re aware of any fire bans, water restrictions or other alerts. Other than that, kick back with a glass of vino and a beautiful lakefront view!

Lucky for us, we have family in Kelowna and have visited the Okanagan many times (we even got engaged in Penticton!). But even if you don’t have family to stay with, BC’s Okanagan is well worth a visit.

Must do in Kelowna & the Okanagan:

• Visit a local winery or join a wine tour
• Hang out on Lake Okanagan
• Take a day trip south to Penticton , Osoyoos or another South Okanagan town

Jasper, AB (7 hrs from Kelowna)

Many people skip Jasper, preferring to drive straight from Vancouver to Banff or Vancouver to Calgary, but I think a detour north to Jasper would be a highlight of any Canada road trip.

Jasper National Park is the biggest national park in Canada, home to glaciers, waterfalls, lakes, islands, forests and so much more. As soon as I saw a picture of Maligne Lake (above), I knew I needed to add Jasper to this itinerary.

Plus, because it’s a detour off the main Trans Canada Highway, Jasper is never as busy as our next stop, Banff. Fewer crowds? Yes, please!

Must do in Japser:

• Admire Maligne Lake and Maligne Canyon
• Witness the powerful Athabasca Falls
• Ride the Jasper SkyTram or walk the Columbia Icefield Skywalk

Short on time?  If you don’t have time to stop in the Okanagan or Jasper, you can do a Vancouver to Banff road trip in about nine hours, passing through Kamloops, Revelstoke and Glacier National Park. 

Banff, AB (3 hrs from Jasper)

Another reason to visit Jasper? Because the drive from Banff to Jasper is through Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic drives in the entire world.

Once you tear your eyes away from the road, you’re in for even more beauty in Banff National Park, Canada’s first national park and visited by more than four million people every year.

Spend your days hiking, camping and admiring all of the beautiful scenery around you. Because Banff is so popular, make sure you book your accommodation ahead of time and wake up early to avoid the largest crowds.

Must do in Banff:

• Check out the views from the Banff Gondola
• Be wowed by some of the prettiest lakes like Emerald Lake, Morraine Lake and Lake Louise
• Soak in a hot spring or set out on any number of scenic hikes in the area
• Or check out this complete 4 day Banff itinerary !

Calgary, AB (1.5 hrs from Banff)

In case you didn’t get enough hiking in Banff, you can make a stop in Canmore on your way to Calgary for more beautiful mountain views. Then it’s time to enter Cowtown, aka Calgary.

As a Vancouverite, it’s almost mandatory for us to make fun of Calgary (apologies to my Calgarian friends and family!), but there’s actually quite a bit to enjoy in the city. If you time your road trip right, you could be in town for the annual Calgary Stampede , which happens every July. There are also parks, museums, sports arenas and more to visit in Calgary.

Many people choose to visit Banff on a day trip from Calgary, since it’s only 1.5 hours away. But because there’s so much to do in Banff, I think it’d be better to spend a few days there before moving onto Calgary. However, if you’re short on time, you could do a day trip to Banff while basing in Calgary.

Must do in Calgary:

• Don a cowboy hat at Calgary Stampede
• Stroll (or raft) along Bow River and check out the Peace Bridge
• Visit the Heritage Park Historical Village to learn some Western Canada history
• Try your hand at some winter sports at WinSport, home of the 1998 Winter Olympics

Canadian fun “fact”: Just to prove how great the Vancouver-Calgary rivalry is, when I asked my husband what someone should do in Calgary he suggested “complain that you’re not in Vancouver.” But we’re just kidding, Calgary is great! 

Prairies: Alberta, Saskatchewan & Manitoba road trip

We’re now moving into Canada’s prairie provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Stops visited on this portion of your road trip are:

• Riding Mountain National Park
• Whiteshell Provincial Park

Drumheller, AB (1.5 hrs from Calgary)

From Calgary we are leaving the Rockies and officially entering prairie land. This part of Canada is known for being quite flat (and dull) but as you’ll see below, there are some great places to stop on your cross Canada road trip.

First up: Drumheller! Known as the Town of the Dinosaurs, if you have any dino lovers in your car, this is going to be a mandatory stop!

Must do in Drumheller:

• Check out fossils found in the area at The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Paleontology
• Spot hoodoos in the nearby badlands
• Take a day trip to Dinosaur Provincial Park (2 hrs from Drumheller)

Saskatoon, SK (5 hrs from Drumheller)

I was debating which of Saskatchewan’s major cities to include in this itinerary: Saskatoon, Regina or Moose Jaw. Ultimately I decided on Saskatoon as it’s the largest city, doesn’t have as much of a government feel as the capital (Regina), and is closest to Drumheller.

If you prefer to visit Regina, check out Stone Hall Castle, the Royal Saskatchewan Museum and the world’s largest moose statue.

Or if you prefer to check out Moose Jaw, don’t miss the Tunnels of Moose Jaw tours. These are interactive tours that take place in the tunnels below the city and look really fun!

Must do in Saskatoon:

• Visit Wanuskewin Heritage Park to learn about people’s sacred relationship with the land
• Stand up paddle board on the South Saskatchewan River
• Grab lunch at the oldest and largest farmer’s market in the province, the Saskatoon Farmer’s Market

Not into cities?  If cities don’t do it for you, skip Saskatoon and head south to visit Saskatchewan’s Cypress Hills Interprovincial Park or Grasslands National Park for forests, lakes, wide open spaces, wildlife spotting and stargazing. 

Riding Mountain National Park, MB (6 hrs from Saskatoon)

A great stop to break up the long drive across the Canadian Prairies is Riding Mountain National Park in Manitoba.

This park is home to forests, grasslands and great wildlife viewing. It’s a top place to visit in the province and a nice change from city life if you’re driving from Saskatoon to (spoiler alert on the next stop) Winnipeg.

Must do in Riding Mountain National Park:

• Try out water sports in the summer or cross-country skiing in the winter
• Take in the view from the top of Bald Hill
• Go on a day trip to nearby university town, Brandon

Winnipeg, MB (3 hrs from Riding Mountain)

Welcome to The Peg! Affectionally called “Winterpeg” in the winter, you may want to steer clear of Winnipeg in the colder months. But in the summer, you’ll find lots to enjoy in this city. With a number of museums, markets, festivals and parks, you’ll have lots to fill your days.

And when you need a break from city life, head up to Lake Winnipeg. Enjoy the white sand dunes at Grand Beach or indulge in Icelandic heritage and Viking statues in Gimli.

Must do in Winnipeg: 

• Visit the Canadian Museum for Human Rights (I’ve heard it’s incredible!)
• Get to know the city by riding the Central Winnipeg Bike Loop
• Escape to the water on Lake Winnipeg

Whiteshell Provincial Park, MB (1.5 hrs from Winnipeg)

Our last stop in the prairies is Whiteshell Provincial Park, a park located on the border between Manitoba and Ontario. It’s a great introduction to the natural scenery that awaits you in western Ontario.

If you prefer to drive farther (since Whiteshell isn’t that far from Winnipeg), you could cross the border into Ontario and base in Kenora, a waterfront town with lots of beach activities.

Must do in Whiteshell Provincial Park: 

• Hit the beach at Falcon Lake
• Discover the Bannock Point Petroforms
• Visit West Hawk Lake, a crater lake formed by a meteor

Eastern Canada: Ontario & Quebec road trip

We’re now moving into the middle section of Canada and our two biggest provinces, Ontario and Quebec. Here we’ll be visiting:

• Thunder Bay
• Sault Ste Marie
• Manitoulin Island
• Prince Edward County
• Eastern Townships
• Quebec City

Thunder Bay, ON (6.5 hrs from Whiteshell)

From Manitoba it’s a long drive to Thunder Bay to begin the Ontario road trip portion of this Canada itinerary.

The city of Thunder Bay isn’t the most exciting place to be but all of the nature nearby is really worth visiting. They say it’s home to some of the best beaches, waterfalls and viewpoints in the province!

Must do in Thunder Bay: 

• Explore Ouimet Canyon Provincial Park (Canada’s version of the Grand Canyon)
• Admire Kakabeka Falls, the second highest waterfall in the province
• Check out the amethyst mines and find your own to take home , as suggested by my friend Lyn!
• Visit the Terry Fox Monument, commemorating the spot where Terry’s Marathon of Hope across Canada ended

Sault Ste Marie, ON (7.5 hrs from Thunder Bay)

It’s another long drive from Thunder Bay to Sault Ste Marie (pronounced Soo Saint Marie). What can I say? Ontario is a big province and you have a lot of ground to cover!

Luckily you’ll be driving along Lake Superior the whole time, affording you lots of places to stop and admire the view or go on a little hike to stretch the legs. Right on the US/Canada border, The Soo is a big port city with a splash of outdoor adventure for you to enjoy.

Must do in Sault Ste Marie:

• Kayak down or go fly fishing on St. Marys River
• Unleash your inner aviation geek at the Canadian BiPlane Heritage Museum
• Ski or mountain bike at Hiawatha Highlands

Manitoulin Island, ON (4 hrs from Sault Ste Marie)

You didn’t think a cross Canada road trip itinerary would include islands did you? Or at least not in Ontario! But it’s true, Ontario is home to a number of islands, such as Manitoulin Island in the middle of Lake Huron.

Manitoulin Island is actually the largest freshwater island in the world and an amazing place to explore Indigenous culture, scenic trails and even see the Northern Lights (if you’re lucky!).

Must do on Manitoulin Island: 

• Hike the Cup and Saucer Trail for epic views
• Explore some of Manitoulin’s 100+ lakes by canoe
• Visit Wiikwemkoong, Canada’s only official Unceded Indian Reserve

Tobermory, ON (2.5 hrs from Manitoulin Island)

To get from Manitoulin Island to Tobermory, you and your vehicle will load onto a scenic ferry. Now look at us; we’re island-hopping in Canada!

While technically not an island, Tobermory does feel like a world of its own. It’s absolutely one of the most beautiful, natural places in Ontario with hidden gems (shipwrecks, anyone?) and Caribbean-like waters waiting to be discovered.

Must do in Tobermory:

• Explore beaches, caves and grottos at Bruce Peninsula National Park
• Take a boat tour around Flowerpot Island
• Dive around 20 historical shipwrecks at Fathom Five National Marine Park

Short on time? Prefer cities? You can drive from Winnipeg to Toronto through the US (21 hours) rather than through the Canadian stops above (25 hours) and visit Minneapolis, Chicago and Detroit on the way. 

Toronto, ON (3.5 hrs from Tobermory)

Welcome to The Six, my hometown of Toronto (us locals drop the second “t” so it’s more like “Torono”). Arguably the best known city in Canada and the biggest, no cross Canada road trip could exclude TO.

Having grown up in Toronto, it’s hard for me to see it as a tourist locale. But besides visiting my friends and family, there really is so much to do in this bustling, diverse city. From museums, parks and islands to sports arenas, shopping streets and galleries, there’s something in Toronto for everyone .

But my favourite part of the city is all of the different neighbourhoods that each have a distinct culture and feel. My favourites are Chinatown, The Annex and Kensington Market. It’s also some of the best eating in Canada, no matter what cuisine you’re in the mood for!

Must do in Toronto: 

• Head up the iconic CN Tower for a view over the city
• Cruise across to the Toronto Islands and check out the skyline view
• Watch a major league baseball, basketball or hockey game
• See dinosaurs at the Royal Ontario Museum or admire art at the Art Gallery of Ontario
• Get your fill of delicious Portuguese, Chinese, Italian, Indian, Korean food and any other cuisine!

Day trip to Niagara Falls!

Having grown up in Toronto, I’ve been to Niagara Falls a handful of times and often stayed overnight. At just over an hour from Toronto, Niagara Falls is an easy day trip.

But if you have the time and budget, I do recommend spending a few days in the Niagara region. Or if you’d prefer to base in Toronto and just see the falls on a day trip , that works too.

Besides seeing the incredible Niagara Falls (and yes, the Canadian side is much better than the American side) you’ll also want to check out Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario’s charming wine country.

There are lots of wine tours through Niagara if you’d rather not drive or find wineries yourself. You can also visit Albion Falls just outside of Hamilton on your way to Niagara, kind of like a warm up for the bigger Niagara Falls.

Prince Edward County, ON (3 hrs from Toronto)

Despite having lived the first 18 years of my life in Toronto, I’m sad to say I haven’t been to Prince Edward County. Which is too bad because it seems like the cutest collection of small towns, beaches, wineries, galleries, shops and parks.

The County is an island in Lake Ontario (not to be confused with Prince Edward Island, which is also an island called Prince Edward, but a province in the Atlantic Ocean) home to farmers and makers, perfect for slowing down and enjoying local life.

Must do in Prince Edward County:

• Hit the beach at Sandbanks Provincial Park or North Beach Provincial Park
• Wine taste through local wineries (there are also cideries and breweries, if you prefer)
• Bike or hike the Millennium Trail or shop local in Picton or Wellington

For more suggestions of what to do, check out my friend Renee’s post with 16 things to do in Prince Edward County!

Ottawa, ON (3 hrs from Prince Edward County)

From Prince Edward County we’re heading north to Canada’s capital, Ottawa (no, Canada’s capital is not Toronto!). Ottawa is an incredible place to learn about Canada’s history and hear a mix of our national languages, English and French.

In the winter, don’t miss skating down the Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest skate rink at 7.8km.

But there’s lots of fun to be had in the summer in Ottawa too! I’ve visited in both seasons and enjoyed skating in the cold and wandering Parliament Hill in warmer months.

Must do in Ottawa: 

• Visit a museum such as The Canadian Museum of History , The Canadian War Museum or The Canadian Museum of Nature
• Take a tour of Parliament Hill
• Stroll, skate or cruise along the Rideau Canal with a Beaver Tail!

Canadian fun fact: A Beaver Tail is a Canadian dessert that is essentially deep fried dough with toppings on it in the vague shape of a beaver’s tail. No actual beavers are harmed in the making of these treats! 

Montreal, QC (2.5 hrs from Ottawa)

Bienvenue à Québec! Ready to road trip Quebec? We’re crossing over from Ontario to French-speaking Quebec and stopping first in one of my favourite cities, Montreal .

I always say that if I spoke French fluently, I would move to Montreal. But don’t worry! You don’t need to be fluent or even rudimentary at French to visit Montreal (but it would be good to parlez français if you want to move there).

Montreal has incredible food , is diverse and bustling, and has a wonderful European charm to it. There are beautiful viewpoints, stunning churches, funky street art, world-class restaurants, and lots of festivals and events.

Montreal feels like a place unlike any other in Canada and is a city where you could never get bored. I’ve visited a handful of times over the years and always enjoy the city.

Must do in Montreal: 

• Wander Old Montreal and the Port of Montreal
• Go on a food tour of Montreal enjoying bagels, poutine, crepes and much more!
• Admire Montreal’s famous Notre Dame and St. Joseph’s churches

Eastern Townships, QC (1.5 hrs from Montreal)

Despite a few visits to Montreal over the years, I haven’t explored more of Quebec yet. One area I’d love to spend a few days in is the Eastern Townships, just an hour or two southeast of Montreal.

This area is Quebec’s natural wonderland, where many Quebec and Ontario locals have cottages to spend their summers. It’s the perfect place to golf, hike, bike, take to the water and stargaze. There are also wineries, local shops and festivals to enjoy.

Must do in the Eastern Townships: 

• Get back to nature at Parc National du Mont-Orford
• Visit the world’s first Dark Sky Preserve at ASTROLab in Parc National du Mont-Mégantic
• Climb one of the world’s longest suspension bridges at Gorge Park

My friend Renee is once again coming in clutch with her list of 13 villages to visit in the Eastern Townships!

Quebec City, QC (2.5 hrs from the Eastern Townships)

On your way to Quebec’s capital, it may be worth a detour to Beauce for a sweet treat, since this town is responsible for 20% of the world’s maple syrup production!

All sugared up, you’re off to Quebec City for a few days of culture, architecture and history. There are world-renown art galleries and museums, stunning churches, and North America’s only ice hotel!

Quebec City has always struck me as a very romantic place – in fact, Colin and I thought about including it in our honeymoon itinerary . I’d love to splurge on a stay at the Château Frontenac one day (the most photographed hotel in the world). You can tell how badly I want to visit Quebec City by all of the must dos I listed below!

Must do in Quebec City: 

• Stroll along the fortified walls of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Explore the Citadelle de Québec, a military heritage site built between 1820 and 1850
• Admire Montmorency Falls (they’re actually taller than Niagara Falls!)
• Get your nature on at Jacques-Cartier National Park
• Shop from local artisans at Île d’Orléans
• Enjoy a day at Eastern Canada’s largest theme park , Village Vacances Valcartier, and stay the night at an ice hotel

Tadoussac, QC (3 hrs from Quebec City)

From Quebec City, you’ll drive along the St. Lawrence River to your last stop in Quebec, the historic, small town of Tadoussac. Tadoussac was founded in 1600 as the first French settlement in North America.

Despite being a small place, Tadoussac draws a good number of visitors thanks to its beautiful landscape and wildlife spotting opportunities (whales, bears and beavers!). Plus, it’s the perfect stop before you head to the Maritimes and Atlantic Canada.

Must do in Tadoussac: 

• Go whale watching and learn all about these mammals of the sea at Marine Mammal Interpretation Centre
• Hike around Saguenay Fjord National Park
• Sea kayak on Tadoussac Bay

Atlantic Canada: New Brunswick, PEI, Nova Scotia & Newfoundland road trip

Last but not least is the east coast of Canada! We’ll be visiting all of the Maritime provinces (New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia), as well as Newfoundland. In this section, you’ll stop at:

• Fredericton
• Fundy National Park
• Charlottetown
• Annapolis Valley
• Cape Breton Island
• North Sydney
• Port aux Basques
• Gros Morne National Park
• St. John’s

Fredericton, NB (6 hrs from Tadoussac)

Ready to road trip the east coast of Canada? A big drive from Quebec has you in Fredericton, the provincial capital of New Brunswick.

While certainly not the most popular city in Canada, Fredericton is known for its colonial charm, military history, and arts and music scene. Since it’s such a long drive from Quebec into the Maritimes, why not spend a day or two in Fredericton?

Must do in Fredericton:

• Shop the Fredericton Boyce Farmers Market during the day and the Garrison Night Market in the evening
• Stop by the old British garrison where you can watch the changing of the guard, visit restored barracks and cell blocks, and take part in a soldier’s daily activities
• Visit Kings Landing (no, not that one!) to see what life was like in New Brunswick 200 years ago

Fundy National Park, NB (2 hrs from Fredericton)

I remember visiting the Bay of Fundy with my family when I was about 12 years old and being wowed by the changing tides. When the tides were out, we were able to walk all the way out onto the ocean floor. This really is a unique area of Canada!

The Bay of Fundy runs along the south coast of New Brunswick and you can visit a number of sites along it. St. Andrews, to the west, is a National Historic Site and when the tide is out, you can actually drive along the ocean floor from St. Andrews to Ministers Island.

Heading northeast you’ll hit Saint John where you can watch the Reversing Falls Rapids. Next you can visit St. Martins Sea Caves, which you can visit on foot or via kayak depending on the tides. From there, you’ll be into Fundy National Park where even more natural wonders await!

Must do at Fundy National Park: 

• Hike and visit beaches along the Fundy Trail Parkway
• Visit waterfalls from Alma such as Dickson Falls, Laverty Falls and Third Vault Falls
• Explore Hopewell Rocks at both high tide and low tide

Charlottetown, PE (2.5 hrs from Fundy)

The next stop on your east coast of Canada road trip is Charlottetown in Prince Edward Island (PEI). PEI is Canada’s smallest province and while there’s lots to see, Charlottetown is a great base to explore from since everything on the island is within two hours of the capital city.

The birthplace of Canadian Confederation, Charlottetown is a historic city full of charm, waterfront features and really delicious food (I could not get enough of their ice cream and fresh seafood!). PEI also has sand dunes, museums, Indigenous history, beaches and lots more to discover.

Plus, it’s the real home of Anne of Green Gables! You might know Anne from the novels written by LM Montgomery. Just outside Charlottetown, you can visit the home that inspired Montgomery’s writing. This was one of my highlights in PEI!

Must do in Charlottetown and PEI:

• Eat home grown Cavendish potatoes, Cows ice cream and fresh PEI oysters
• Visit the Anne of Green Gables Museum and walk through her home from the books
• Go beach hopping in PEI: sand dunes, red sand beaches and more!

PS: On your way from New Brunswick to PEI, don’t miss a stop in Shediac, the lobster capital of the world! 

Annapolis Valley, NS (5 hrs from Charlottetown)

From Charlottetown you’ll head back across the Confederation Bridge, down through New Brunswick and into Nova Scotia. Your first stop in Nova Scotia is the Annapolis Valley, the province’s wine region!

Historically an apple-growing region, the Annapolis Valley is now known for its acidic white wine and Méthode Classique sparkling wine, as well as ciders and spirits. Of course, there’s lots to discover in this area for non-drinkers too! The views are beautiful and there’s lots of nature, history and delicious food to enjoy.

Must do in the Annapolis Valley:

• Go on a wine tour to try the Valley’s best
• Visit a recreation of one of North America’s first settlements at Port-Royal National Historic Site
• Learn about the history and culture of the Mi’kmaw people at Kejimkujik National Park

Halifax, NS (2 hrs from the Annapolis Valley)

Next up is one of my favourite cities in Canada (and another one I’d consider moving to), Halifax. It was one of the highlights of our Atlantic Canada honeymoon .

Halifax is a really cool city with lots to do, great local seafood, an awesome waterfront and just a great vibe all around. I loved that the city had some awesome history to discover in really engaging ways, as well as lots of modern and multi-cultural offerings.

Plus, there are so many awesome day trips from Halifax along the coast of Nova Scoatia, like the famous Peggys Cove lighthouse and adorable town of Lunenberg.

Must do in Halifax:

• Get dinner at The Bicycle Thief, try Nova Scotian donair and other great eats in Halifax
• Have a moving experience at the Pier 21 Immigration Museum (probably the best museum I’ve ever visited!)
• Visit the Halifax Citadel and learn about Canada’s military history
• Walk along the Halifax Waterfront Boardwalk and take the ferry over to Dartmouth
• Go on a day trip to Peggys Cove , Lunenberg and Mahone Bay

Need more suggestions? Check out 22 things to do in Halifax! 

Cape Breton Island, NS (5 hrs from Halifax)

From Halifax you’ll head to the jewel of Nova Scotia: Cape Breton Island!

Depending on how much time you have, you can choose to drive the entirety of the Cabot Trail around Cape Breton Island, or just visit one or two towns. The entire trail is only 298 km (185 mi) long, so could be driven in a day. But I highly recommend spending a few days in this picturesque region!

Cape Breton was the most beautiful part of our 2021 Atlantic Canada honeymoon . We loved checking out beautiful coastal vistas, going on short hikes amongst the fall foliage, and discovering small town bakeries and restaurants. I’d definitely suggest prioritizing this stop on your cross Canada road trip!

Must do on Cape Breton Island:

• Visit the Alexander Graham Bell Museum in Baddeck
• Check out the stunning views at Lakies Head near Ingonish
• Hike the Skyline Trail near Cheticamp
• Eat breakfast at Salty Rose’s Periwinkle Cafe, have dinner at L’Abri and get fresh baked goods at Aucoin Bakery

For more details on where to stay and what to do on Cape Breton, check out my 5 Day Cabot Trail Itinerary on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia! 

North Sydney, NS (2 hrs from Cape Breton Island)

After your adventure around Cape Breton, it’s time to start making your way to Newfoundland, the most eastern province in Canada and the last one to tick off your Canadian bucket list.

The easiest way to road trip to Newfoundland from Nova Scotia is by taking a Marine Atlantic ferry from North Sydney to Port aux Basques. There is year-round ferry service, typically with two departures a day, and you can drive your car onto the ferry. A sailing takes about seven hours.

While waiting for your ferry to depart, you can enjoy Sydney’s waterfront, explore the nearby Fortress of Louisbourg and check out the world’s largest fiddle!

Port aux Basques, NL (7 hrs from North Sydney)

Welcome to Newfoundland, your final province on this massive cross Canada road trip! Depending on what sailing you took from Nova Scotia, you may arrive at Port aux Basques in the evening or early the next morning.

In case you get seasick like I do, or just need a break from being on the move, you may want to book a night in Port aux Basques before continuing on with your east coast Canadian road trip. While in Port aux Basques you can check out the Cape Ray Lighthouse, go for a stroll along the Grand Bay West Beach Trailway, or head out on a marine excursion.

Canadian fun fact: Despite its spelling, most people pronounce Newfoundland as NEW-fin-LAND and not new-FOUND-land. 

Gros Morne National Park, NL (3.5 hrs from Port aux Basques)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gros Morne National Park is probably one of the most beautiful places in Canada. But because it’s hard to get to and lesser known, it doesn’t see the same huge crowds as Banff or Whistler.

All that means is you’ll have a lot of this beauty to yourself! Explore the rugged coast line and see where tectonic plates once crashed to form epic mountains, rocky tablelands, gorges, ponds, forests and more!

Must do in Gros Morne National Park:

• Be wowed by the view at Western Brook Pond Fjord
• Hike up Lookout Hills Trail or summit Gros Morne Mountain
• Depending on the time of year, you can go for a pond cruise, kayak on Trout River, bike through fall foliage, or ski and snowboard in Burridges Gulch

Gander, NL (4 hrs from Gros Morne)

Come from away to Gander, Newfoundland, the town made famous for hosting the “plane people” when air space was closed during 9/11.

On Sep 11, 2001, 38 planes with 6,500 passengers and crew members were grounded in Gander, which had a population of just 10,000. But Gander stepped up and showed the world what it means to be a good neighbour by welcoming and caring for everyone. This is all beautifully depicted in the musical, Come From Away, which I’ve been very fortunate to see in Toronto and Vancouver.

It’s because I’m such a fan of this musical that Gander is on my Newfoundland bucket list. But even if you don’t know the show, this is a pretty remarkable town to visit and an important place in history.

Must do in Gander:

• Visit the Gander International Airport, once the largest airport in North America
• Learn about Gander’s aviation history at the North Atlantic Aviation Museum
• Take a trip to the Appleton 9/11 Memorial where a piece of steel from the Twin Towers is located (passengers from the grounded planes donated money to help build the park where the memorial is located)

Elliston, NL (2.5 hrs from Gander)

We’re coming to the end of your east coast Canada road trip. On your way to Elliston, stop at Terra Nova National Park, Canada’s most easterly national park, and the Discovery Trail, home to sweeping views and coastal history.

Just before Elliston you can stretch your legs along the Skerwink Trail, once named one of the best walks in the world by Conde Nast, and the perfect place to spot birds and humpback whales.

Speaking of wildlife spotting, that’s why I added Elliston to this Canada road trip itinerary. Nicknamed Bird Island Cove, Elliston is one of the best places in North America to see puffins from land! If you’re visiting between May and September, a visit to Puffin Island in Elliston would be well worth it.

Short on time? Not into puffins? If you’d rather not stop in Elliston, you can carry on straight from Gander to St. John’s (3.5 hrs drive). 

St. John’s, NFL (3.5 hrs from Elliston)

Congratulations, you have officially made it to the end of the ultimate cross Canada road trip! From Victoria to St. John’s, from east to west, from the Pacific to the Atlantic, you have officially driven through every province and the entire length of Canada.

Give yourself a few days in Newfoundland’s artsy, historic and colourful capital to celebrate! Here you can dine out, enjoy Maritime music and discover what makes Newfoundland so unique.

Prefer to celebrate the end of your road trip out in nature? St. John’s has lots of options for that too. Hike the East Coast Trail, go puffin or whale watching, ferry to Bell Island, check out the gardens at Pippy Park or spot wildlife at Salmonier Nature Park.

Must do in St. John’s:

• Take in the views and learn some history at Signal Hill National Historic Site
• Push a little farther east to Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site, the most easterly point in North America
• Learn about the history, art and culture of Newfoundland at The Rooms
• Check out the colourful homes on Jellybean Row

Canadian fun fact: Don’t confuse St. John’s, the capital of Newfoundland, with Saint John, a city (but not the capital) of New Brunswick. 

Where to go after you finish driving across Canada

You did it – you drove all across Canada on the most epic cross Canada road trip! Now what?

From St. John’s, you can fly direct to a few places in Canada (like Halifax, Montreal, Toronto or Calgary) or internationally, to places like Orlando, Florida and London, UK . Of course, that would mean either returning your rental vehicle in St. John’s, which may incur an expensive one-way fee, or selling it there, which could take time.

If you’re keeping your vehicle, the easiest way to leave St. John’s is to drive to Argentia (1.5 hr drive) and ferry back to North Sydney . This overnight ferry boards at 5:00pm and arrives in North Sydney the next morning at 9:00am.

If a 16 hour ferry crossing doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, you could drive back to Port aux Basques (9 hrs from St. John’s) and get on the 7 hour ferry to North Sydney from there.

Or, you can put your most seaworthy road trip companion on the long ferry from Argentia while you hop a flight out of St. John’s (this is definitely what I will be doing – apologies to my husband who will get stuck with the car!).

Once back in Nova Scotia, you’re on Canada’s mainland and can continue driving to your final destination from there . Rather than reverse the Canada road trip you just did, why not check out our neighbour to the south and start a US road trip?

From North Sydney it’s only a 7.5 hr drive into Maine, where you can begin exploring the US. That may or may not be the next big road trip I’m planning!

What’s missing from this Canadian road trip planner?

Frankly, quite a lot! Canada is a huge country and while this road trip covers 34 places across all 10 provinces, that barely scratches the surface of what Canada has to offer.

I created this itinerary by researching places of interest in each province. Next, I plotted them on a map, which you can see above with all of the purple dots.

I then figured out a driving route that would link as many of the dots as possible without detouring too far from the most efficient east-west route. Sadly, some of the purple dots didn’t make it into the final road trip itinerary as they were just too far away.

The majority of Canadians live along the Canada/US border, so you’ll notice that my road trip route also stays quite far south. That means I missed a lot of central/northern Canada, including incredible places like:

• Haida Gwaii in BC
• The home of polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba
• All of the territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut)
• The capital of Alberta (Edmonton)
• Algonquin and Muskoka in Ontario
• Quebec’s Gaspe Peninsula
• Labrador, which makes up the province of Newfoundland and Labrador

All of these places are well worth visiting, but difficult to do on an east-west Canada road trip that’s primarily based in the south of the country. I hope to visit them all some day on separate trips!

How to plan a road trip in Canada if you’re short on time

The road trip itinerary I listed above covers 34 stops across Canada and would likely take 2-3 months to enjoy properly. But what if you don’t have 2-3 months to road trip Canada? No worries! There are lots of cross Canada road trips you can take if you’re short on time.

Obviously you can complete just a part of my road trip itinerary above if you don’t have time for the whole thing. But here are a few more suggestions for Canadian road trips depending on how much time you have:

1 week Canada road trip: Drive from Toronto to Quebec City

Toronto (3 nights) > Montreal (2 nights) > Quebec (2 nights) 

With one week, you could do a mini Ontario and Quebec road trip when you drive from Toronto to Quebec City, stopping in Montreal along the way.

You could also take a half or full day trip to Niagara Falls from Toronto . The entire drive is only 8 hours, making this an easy road trip to complete in a week.

2 week Canada road trip: Vancouver to Banff road trip

Victoria (2 nights) > Vancouver (3 nights) > Kelowna (2 nights) > Jasper (2 nights) > Banff (3 nights) > Calgary (2 nights)

Two weeks would be a great amount of time for a Vancouver to Banff road trip, seeing the best of the Rocky Mountains and Canada’s west coast. You can stop for wine in Kelowna and even push north to Jasper to really make the most of the area’s beauty!

With two weeks, you would even have time to add on Victoria on the west and Calgary on the east if you’re happy to move fast. Of course, if you wanted to slow down and spend more time at the national parks, you could cut these extra stops and add days in Jasper and Banff.

You can also drive from Calgary to Vancouver if you want to do this road trip in reverse.

3 week Canada road trip: East coast Canada road trip

Halifax (3 nights) > Annapolis Valley (2 nights) > Bay of Fundy (3 nights) > Charlottetown and PEI (4 nights) > Cape Breton Island (3 nights) > ferry to Newfoundland (1 night) > Gros Morne National Park (2 nights) > St. John’s (2 nights) > ferry to Nova Scotia (1 night) > return to Halifax 

When we went on our Atlantic Canada honeymoon , we had about 3 weeks to explore the Maritimes and it was a great amount of time.

I would highly recommend dedicating a three week Canadian road trip to one region of the country, whether that’s an east coast Canada road trip or west coast Canada road trip, rather than trying to drive across a few regions.

I’ve started this itinerary in Halifax, as it’s probably the easiest airport to fly into. After a few days exploring the city of Halifax, you can pick up a car and explore Atlantic Canada! You’ll start with wine tasting in the Annapolis Valley and then drive over to New Brunswick to check out the Bay of Fundy.

From there, you’re driving over to PEI for fresh seafood and then back to Nova Scotia to loop Cape Breton Island. Next, you’re on the ferry to Newfoundland where you’ll see the views of Gros Morne National Park and colourful homes of St. John’s.

Finally, you’ll board the overnight ferry and make your way back to Halifax where you can return your rental car and fly home.

1 month Canada road trip: Toronto to Vancouver driving trip

With a whole month, you can make a pretty serious dent in driving across Canada! Rather than stretching yourself to drive from coast to coast, save the Atlantic provinces for a future trip and just drive from Toronto (my old hometown) to Vancouver (my current hometown).

• Week 1: Toronto, Tobermory & Manitoulin Island
• Week 2: Driving across the prairies (see my recommended spots in the full itinerary above)
• Week 3: Banff & Jasper
• Week 4: The Okanagan & Vancouver

Alternatively, you could head east from Toronto and spend a month exploring Ontario, Quebec and the Maritimes. You probably wouldn’t have time to make it to Newfoundland, but you could tick off quite a few east coast provinces.

• Week 1: Toronto, Prince Edward County & Ottawa
• Week 2: Montreal, Eastern Townships & Quebec
• Week 3: Bay of Fundy and PEI
• Week 4: Halifax and Cape Breton Island

Wrapping up: 10 cross Canada road trips tips

Before you hit the road, keep these road trip tips in mind!

1. Safety first (car edition) : Make sure you’re comfortable driving the vehicle you’ll use for this Canadian road trip and that any necessary maintenance is taken care of. Follow the rules of the road, regularly service your car and have jumper cables available.

2. Safety first (human edition) : Stay safe and healthy on the road by staying in accommodation that you’re comfortable with, and keeping in touch with friends and family (particularly if you’re travelling alone). Make sure your car is stocked with water, a first aid kit and any other emergency supplies.

3. Book ahead in the busy season : Campgrounds, tours and parking lots fill up fast in busy Canadian tourist hot spots in the middle of summer! Make sure you do your research and book ahead when needed. While this might impact your ability to be spontaneous, it could save you a lot of stress and money.

4. Download all the apps : These days there are apps to help you find cheap gas, roadside attractions, free places to park, scenic campsites and so much more! Download the apps you need and be sure you have offline maps downloaded to help you navigate when you don’t have cell service. You may also want to join a roadside assistance or hotel loyalty program.

5. Consider a parks pass : Depending on how many national parks you’re visiting, you may want to buy the Parks Canada Discovery Pass for cheaper entrance to all of the national parks of Canada. Each province also has a pass for their provincial parks, which may be worth looking into.

6. Take it slow : If this is your first time to Canada or first big road trip, slow down. Give yourself time to get used to life on the road and schedule off-days so you can rest, do laundry, etc. Remember, Canada is a big place! You’ll enjoy your Canadian road trip a lot more if you aren’t driving 8 hours a day, rushing from one stop to the next.

7. Have a plan to stay connected : Depending on where you’re going on your road trip, you may not always have cell or internet service. And depending on where you’re coming from, you may not be able to use your home service in Canada. Look into options ahead of time, like buying a portable wifi unit, getting an e-Sim or stopping at wifi-friendly cafes, so you can stay connected.

8. Start preparing early : If you’re planning to be on the road for a couple of weeks or a couple of months, you’ll want to prep ahead of time. How far do you want to drive each day? Are you staying at campgrounds or hotels? Are you eating out or hitting the grocery store?

If you’re travelling with anyone else, make sure you’re having these conversations with them so everyone is on the same page.

9. Be respectful : Your Canada road trip will likely take you through lots of natural areas, so remember to Leave No Trace and be respectful of the outdoor environment. It’s also important to do your homework about whose land you’re travelling on, paying respect to Canada’s Indigenous peoples whose unceded land we live on.

10. Plan your next trip back to Canada! Whether you drive from Victoria to St. John’s or just a small section in between, make sure this trip to Canada isn’t your last. Hopefully you’ll be amazed by the natural wonders, history, culture, food and people here in Canada, and eagre to plan your next trip back!

Need to rent a car for your road trip? Get the best deal with Discover Cars!  

And there you have it, my ultimate cross Canada road trip itinerary. I hope this itinerary has gotten you excited for your own road trip across Canada. I’d love to know: Where in Canada do you most want to visit? 

Check out more adventures across Canada:

• 10 Things You Must Eat in Montreal
• How to Spend a Weekend in Penticton, BC
• Camping at Porteau Cove, BC
• 5 Day Cabot Trail Itinerary on Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
• 22 Things to Do in Halifax, Nova Scotia

Save my cross Canada road trip itinerary for your future trip planning. Pin it!

Riana Ang-Canning is a travel writer who has been sharing her global adventures as the founder of Teaspoon of Adventure since 2012. In that time, Riana has travelled to almost 50 countries on 6 continents, including interning in Eswatini, working in Tokyo, road tripping New Zealand and living abroad in Prague. Riana helps everyday travellers discover the world on a mid-budget, proving that you don't have to be athletic, wealthy or nomadic to have an adventure!

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22 comments.

What a great trip you have to look forward to! I took 9 weeks to do this trip (return) the summer of 2019 and it was amazing — mainly staying in motels and AirBnBs (pre van life). You have many of the same stops on your itinerary. Just make sure to leave time for serendipity — those things you learn about from a sign on the side of the road.

-Lyn |www.ramblynjazz.com

Thanks so much, Lyn! So cool that you’ve been on this trip and great advice. Definitely have to leave room for some spontaneous stops and detours!

Yes to long-form content! Well done on pulling toegther this insanely comprehensive guide and road trip across Canada. This is content I’d love to read and indulge in. Your stops not only have a great distance to another to not overwhelm oneself and exhaust the driver, but I found all stops to be very engaging and of interest. It shows how much there is to do and see in Canada within reasonale distance, once you are here, why not check out this place, only 1.5h away and this makes a road trip interesting and long-lasting for me. I also appreciate the cafes recommendations along the way. Keep it up Riana!

Thanks so much, Carolin! You are definitely my inspiration for well-researched, long form content. I’ll have to commission you to do the cafe companion post to this one some day!

What an amazing trip ! I love that you provided a shorter version also. However, I would love to do the longer one. I worked in Toronto one summer when I was a student and travelled around by train a little. I visit Montreal regularly as have family living there. But I have only visited a fraction of Canada so would love to explore further especially the West coast and mountain provinces.

Enjoy the trip and safe travels,

Thanks so much! I hope you get to explore more of Canada one day!

After reading this, I am so ready for a cross-Canada road trip! Growing up, my family regularly drove Ontario to BC and back as our summer vacation, and we also drove one summer to PEI and one summer to Newfoundland, so I’ve done it all in sections. (We usually opted for the detour through the States to skip Thunder Bay, sorry haha, but I’d like to give it another chance.) I’d looove to do it all at once as you’ve planned here, and there are a few places I’ve havent seen yet (somehow we skipped Fredericton, for example, and I’d like to see the new Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg). I’d forgotten how beautiful Tobermory is. I appreciate the “What’s missing?” section because it’s impossible to see it all in one trip—we are too lucky in this country!

Aw thanks so much for checking out the post, Melanie! So cool that you’ve been all over Canada with your family and I hope you (and I!) get to do the full road trip soon.

Thank you for sharing your Canada road trip, which looks an epic road trip, I have wanted to visit Canada, but I wont be doing it all in one long road trip in stages would be lovely, this has certainly given me some ideas for the future 🙂

Thanks, Nic! I hope you have an awesome time when you visit Canada.

Great blog! I did road trips in other parts of the world but needed clarification about the itinerary in Canada. Now I know how to plan. Thank you so much!

Thanks for checking it out! Glad it was helpful.

This is an excellent read! I have visited most of the places mentioned (in parts, and before having kids) and I can definitely say this is very practical and comprehensive! Like you said, Canada is sooo big that it takes time to visit most of it. Thank you for all the tips and recommendation. I can definitely use them now that I am traveling with my family (ie kiddos).

Thank you so much! I hope you enjoy your next Canadian adventure!

We are planning to do the cross Canada trip this summer. We are really excited about it and appreciate you spending time describing different places to visit. We are really excited about it and now even more so.

That’s so exciting! I’m glad my post was helpful. I hope you have a great time this summer!

Good day Riana

We are planning to self drive in Canada on early fall but we have only 3 weeks to explore . We are from Asia country and we know probably is not enough to explore everything according to the itinerary you recommended . Possible can advise us which is most and must visit from Vancouver to toronto by driving . Really appreciated

Hi Stephanie, thanks so much for checking out my post and how exciting that you’ll be visiting Canada this fall! I would actually suggest two smaller road trips to make the most of your time and see some of the best of Canada. First, driving from Vancouver to Calgary with stops in Kelowna, Jasper and Banff (apx 10-12 days). Then from Calgary I’d fly to Montreal or Quebec City and road trip through Montreal/QC, Niagara and Toronto (apx 8-10 days). Both of those would be one-way road trips, so you’ll likely incur an extra cost for a one-way drop off. You’d also be missing out on the east coast, which is a shame because it’s beautiful. But maybe you can add that to your next trip. I hope that helps and happy adventuring!

Really thanks for the recommendation but may I know the place I will be missing out for the east coast maybe I can adjust for extension

No worries! I actually have a post with my recommended Atlantic Canada itinerary: https://teaspoonofadventure.com/atlantic-canada-honeymoon-itinerary/ . I’d say the main places to see would be Halifax, PEI and the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton. I think you could do that in about 7-10 days, though more time wouldn’t be bad. That could also be a round trip drive if you pick up and drop off your car in Halifax.

Wow, this article really got me excited to plan my next road trip! The diversity of landscapes and destinations mentioned here is truly inspiring. I’ve been to a few of these places, but there are definitely some hidden gems I can’t wait to explore. Thanks for putting together such a comprehensive guide with helpful tips and recommendations. Can’t wait to hit the road and create some unforgettable memories! Right now I’m exploring campsites with my toddler.

Thanks for checking it out, Caroline! Enjoy camping with your little one!

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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.

Book your accommodation in Canada here.

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Things to do in Canada

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What's more Canadian then driving a canoe across Canada.

Driving this canoe from Toronto to Edmonton for a friend.

Driving thru Northern Ontario.

Fueling up in Regina after driving through the night.

Joel my driving buddy.

Made it to Marathon Ontario.

Snowstorm setting in while driving overnight through Manitoba.

Sun setting over the Sibley Peninsula near Thunder Bay, Ontario.

It was cold and sunny in Saskatoon.

The sun comes out in Saskatoon.

A bench donated by the Ontario Paddlers association.

 what a great way to check out the landscape of the provinces..

A couple of weeks ago I was looking at flights to Edmonton from Toronto and checking dates with my friend Deb who I planned to visit when she mentioned that her husband Joel would be driving across Canada to transport a canoe that had been left behind by removalists on a recent cross country move. Being the opportunist that I am, and having recently moved to Canada, I jumped at the invitation to share the driving and tag along for the road trip.

What better way to spend a few days of one’s birthday week than to check out the landscape of the provinces in a small SUV with a large fibreglass boat (emulating a sail) on the roof.

I knew I would likely be in for a very long ride and I’d been warned the prairies are ass-numbingly boring, but as someone who likes to learn things the hard way it took all of 3 seconds to make the decision.

So a few weeks later in the middle of Friday afternoon, we set off from Toronto, dodging weekend traffic and the occasional snow flurry on the way through Barrie. We stopped on the outskirts of Sudbury to meet Joel’s sister for a pleasant meal in a wholly deserted but authentic Japanese restaurant. She talked about the Canadian landscape and said she’d never quite got that excited about mountains and beaches, but trees, lakes and rocks, she could never get her fill of. Maybe on this trip, I’d find out why.

We pushed through to Sault Ste Marie for our first overnight, as I reminisced about the one live Hockey game I have been to between the US-based team of that name and the Sarnia Sting in the OHL (one of the most violently impressive encounters I have witnessed).

After a midnight check-in at a motel, we got a solid 6 hours of sleep in comfy beds awaking to see light snow showers out our window. We consumed the standard inclusive breakfast replete with plastic pancakes and set off in good spirits planning a full day of driving through Ontario. Heading north on Hwy 17 – the Trans Canada Highway the temperature hovered just above freezing and the trees glistened with frost. The sun came out as we reached lake Superior and we couldn’t resist a stop on the shores of Old Woman Bay to stretch the legs and admire views of Michipicoten Island. The undulating two-lane road heading north rolls on being occasionally interrupted by small towns with charming names like Marathon, Wabigon, Nipigon, and Opasatika.

While most Canadians would probably prefer the long days of summer for this road trip, there is something charming about discovering the landscape covered in snow and frozen lakes. The white dusting on the trees and layered rock, reflecting the soft glow of the early winter sun.

Driving into Thunder Bay with the sun setting over the Sibley Peninsula and Edward Island put us in the mood for a dinner stop and through a series of poor choices and internet research we found ourselves in the cozy but perhaps aptly named Madhouse. The fare was cheap and cheerless, but I immediately felt at home reading the Kerouac quote on the wall above the kitchen.

The only people for me are the mad ones, the ones who are mad to live, mad to talk, mad to be saved, desirous of everything at the same time… Jack Kerouac (on the road)

After re-connecting to the umbilical internet for a bit and spamming Facebook and Instagram with photos from the days travel, we decided it was time to get back on the road with a goal of one day making it out of Ontario. Prior to this road trip, I had little appreciation for how large the province is. After 24 hours of driving and 36 hours on the road, we’re still in Ontario. If we had taken the slightly faster southern US route for this trip, in that time we would’ve covered 5 US states. Maybe the highways are faster down there and there’s more radio, but I honestly don’t think I would swap those for the magical experience of driving through snow-covered pines and the Canadian Shield, listening to Cape Breton Celtic music and spotting deer and moose as we wind our way endlessly through the night telling road trip stories. That and I wouldn’t have finally gotten to the bottom of what the Naughty By Nature O.P.P. (Ontario Provincial Police) song was about.

Michael McMahon

Contributor.

Michael is a tech nomad, raised in Asia, seasoned in Australia and now based in North America. He is Inspired by outdoor adventures and meeting new people.

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The Ultimate Cross-Canada Road Trip: Montreal to Vancouver

Mortimer Hotton / EyeEm / Getty Images

Driving from eastern Canada to the country's west coast is a major undertaking, but a rewarding one that you will not forget.

Even Canadians are shocked by the diversity of the people and landscape when traversing the country. You'll be moving through a range of cultures, languages and dialects, provinces , time zones, and topographies that are all compelling and very Canadian. You likely will enjoy some places more than others, but the fact that they all comprise one nation is part of what makes the journey so appealing. 

Especially if you're coming from Europe, which is a patchwork of different countries easily accessible to each other, Canada's expanse can be surprising. 

The quickest way across Canada is actually heading south in Ontario and continuing through the northern United States. But that would hardly be the Ultimate Canadian Road Trip, now would it? 

The stops included on this itinerary are mostly larger urban centers, assuming they will offer a wide variety of hotels with occupancy. If you have a trailer or RV, be sure to know where you can park it overnight . There are lots of campgrounds across Canada but reservations are recommended for the popular ones. In addition, Walmart Canada allows one-night parking free of charge in its parking lots.

Don't be overwhelmed by Canada's size: Embrace it and tackle it head-on with the Ultimate Canadian Road Trip, driving from Montreal, Quebec, west to Vancouver, British Columbia. 

​The Basics

• Distance covered: 2,860 miles (4,600 kilometers)
• Hours driving: About 54 hours, an average of 7 to 8 hours behind the wheel each day
• Nights: Seven (This number can quite easily be reduced to four or five if you are willing to drive 10 to 12 hours per day. On the other hand, you could also stretch it out by adding more stops or spending more time in your favorite places.)
• Time zones covered: Four (Beginning in the Eastern time zone, you'll move through Central, Mountain, and end up in the Pacific time zone). 
• Currency used: All provinces in Canada use the Canadian dollar, though some, especially those close to the U.S. border, may accept American money. 
• Safety: Canada is generally a safe country, with strict gun laws and a crime rate much lower than in the U.S. That said, keep your car locked when you're not in it and your valuables in a safe place. The emergency number everywhere is 911.
• Speed limits: Highway speed is between 100 and 120 km/hour (about 60–75 miles/hour) depending on your province. 

Start in Montreal, Quebec

Gregobagel / Getty Images

Steeped in history and infused with French culture, Montreal  is one of Canada's most popular destinations. Chances are you will want to spend at least a night or two here while you explore the unique culture and indulge in the delicious and rich Quebecois cuisine. Old Montreal , especially, is a special chance to stroll cobblestone paths and peruse 17th-century architecture. ​

Don't worry about your French here. Though many people here speak French, shopkeepers and restaurant and hotel staff pretty much all speak English. 

The first leg of your journey from Montreal to Toronto is not a particularly scenic one if you take the quickest route, which is by Highway 401. Nevertheless, there are several nice pit stops along the way, which include historic Kingston or Prince Edward County .

Distance from Montreal, Quebec to Toronto, Ontario: 337 miles (542 kilometers), 6 to 7 hours

First Stop: Toronto, Ontario

Naeem Jaffer / Getty Images

Toronto is Canada's biggest city, its financial center, and the most popular destination for travelers. It is bustling and diverse with no shortage of things to do. But it is a city and if you're not up for tackling the crowds, continue north on Highway 400 past Toronto for about three hours until you arrive in Ontario cottage country, a region of lakes and forest. Here you can find camping or smaller scale motels or resorts in a pretty setting.

Another option is to reach Barrie, a mid-sized city that will reduce the following leg's drive by an hour and a half. 

Recognize that Toronto traffic is a nightmare, so if you stay over, get on the road early in the morning or consider staying on the northern outskirts of the city so you can make an easy morning break for the highway. Highway 400 is the fastest route but if you're interested in seeing some of the pretty farmland north of Toronto, hit the more rural roads that run parallel. 

Distance from Toronto, Ontario to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario: 435 miles (700 kilometers), 7 to 8 hours

Second Stop: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario

Barrett & MacKay / Getty Images

As you head north of Toronto, your nerves will relax as urban sprawl gives way to the rugged, forested landscape of the Canadian Shield. You'll eventually switch over to the Trans-Canada Highway, which stretches all the way to Vancouver. The route here hugs the giant coast of Lake Huron through Northern Ontario's biggest city, Sudbury, before winding up in Sault Ste. Marie, one of the country's oldest communities. 

Sault Ste. Marie, known colloquially as "the Soo," is a riverside community that borders Michigan and you can even cross the International Bridge to reach American soil. If you see a freight ship coming through the canal, it's worth stopping to watch how the complex lock system moves the vessel across the river. Accommodation is limited to smaller-scale hotels and motels but you will see some familiar chains, like Marriott, Delta, and Super 8.

Distance from Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario to Thunder Bay, Ontario: 437 miles (706 kilometers), 8 hours

Third Stop: Thunder Bay, Ontario

Walter Bibikow / Getty Images

There's not a lot to see along the 437-mile stretch between the Soo and Thunder Bay unless you stop at some of the lookouts, where you will witness the craggy beauty of the Canadian Shield. Northern Ontario is relatively unpopulated (most of the province's population lives in the "Golden Horseshoe" region around Toronto). Plus, those Great Lakes just get in the way of everything, making driving "as the crow flies" difficult.

You are now on the Trans-Canada Highway, which is generally single lane. Take care of the transport trucks and wait for passing lanes before overtaking them. Keep your gas tank above half-full as services are limited—especially between October and April—and try to get to Thunder Bay before dark, while always keeping your eyes peeled for moose and deer. 

If you have time for sightseeing in Thunder Bay, the Fort William Historical Park is the most popular attraction of the city. It's a re-creation of the fur trading outpost that was in the same spot during the early 1800s and the frontier feel transports visitors to another bygone era.

Distance from Thunder Bay, Ontario to Winnipeg, Manitoba:  436 miles (703 kilometers), 7.5 to 8.5 hours

Fourth Stop: Winnipeg, Manitoba

Ken Gillespie / Design Pics / Getty Images

Continue on Trans-Canada Highway 17 from Thunder Bay to Winnipeg for the most well-worn route and services. But if you're looking for scenery—and way fewer trucks—take Highway 11, which runs south of and parallel to Highway 17. The scenic route adds about an hour to the drive, but you can even reduce that by cutting through Minnesota and back up to Canada.

You made it to Manitoba! The provincial capital of Winnipeg is a fairly populous city, but it's easy to get around and filled with friendly and down-to-earth locals. If you're visiting in the winter, make sure you are fully prepared with heavy jackets and layers; Winnipeg gets frigidly cold, even by Canadian standards.

There are lots of hotels in Winnipeg to suit any range of budget and thriving cultural and culinary scenes. The Forks is a huge cultural space with a market, shopping, restaurants, and more, and is a great place to start your exploration of the city. The must-see attraction of Winnipeg is the Canadian Museum for Human Rights, a powerful exhibition exploring human rights abuses across Canada and the globe.

Distance from Winnipeg, Manitoba to Regina, Saskatchewan: 356 miles (573 kilometers), 6 hours

Fifth Stop: Regina, Saskatchewan

Between Winnipeg and Regina, you're in the heart of the Prairies, meaning flat. Police have reportedly pulled over people for reading books while driving here. If you are looking to shave some time off of your trip, this may be a stop to eliminate if you want to get closer to Calgary. It's not that Regina isn't worth visiting, but if you're itching for the dramatic landscapes and picturesque views of the Candian Rockies, you'll need to drive a bit farther.

The drive through the Prairies is scenic albeit a bit monotonous, but you can break up the drive by stopping in some of the province's best sites that are easily accessible from the Trans-Canadian Highway. Moose Mountain Provincial Park and Qu'Appelle Valley are just short detours off the highway and really showcase the beauty of Saskatchewan.

Distance from Regina, Saskatchewan to Calgary, Alberta: 472 miles (760 kilometers), 7.5 hours

Sixth Stop: Calgary, Alberta

John E. Marriott / Getty Images

Like many cosmopolitan centers in Canada, Calgary is multicultural, safe, friendly, and in close proximity to abundant natural beauty. It's also a big city that some may wish to avoid, so you can consider carrying on to Canmore or Banff , both of which are pristine alpine towns with plenty of amenities for travelers. But as far as cities go, Calgary is one of Canada's most charming. The Stephen Avenue Walk in downtown is a pedestrian street with the best restaurants, bars, boutiques, and cafes in town.

For an interesting detour along the route, the town of Drumheller isn't far off the highway and is considered by some to be the dinosaur capital of the world. These rocky badlands are a drastic change in scenery from the rest of the route, and you can see Canada's largest collection of fossils in The Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology .

Distance from Calgary, Alberta to Kelowna, B.C.: 382 miles (615 kilometers), 7 hours

Seventh Stop: Kelowna, B.C.

Michael DeFreitas / robertharding / Getty Images

By this point, you'll have already seen some incredible scenery. But the best has been saved for last, and the final stretch through British Columbia will blow you away. The shortest route along the Trans-Canada Highway is incredibly scenic through the towns of Golden and Revelstoke—home to two of Canada's best ski resorts—and perfect places to stop for lunch and photos. 

This route departs from the Trans-Canadian Highway and stops in Kelowna , which is in the heart of the Okanagan Wine Region. If you're not wild about wine, skip it and stay on the Trans-Canada highway. The town of Kamloops is a picturesque town with plenty of options for accommodations and would make a great pitstop before the final leg of the trip. 

Distance from Kelowna, B.C. to Vancouver, B.C.: 242 miles (390 kilometers), 4.5 hours

End in Vancouver, B.C.

Michael Wheatley / Getty Images

Get out the rain gear and put on your Birkenstocks. You made it to Vancouver, B.C ., Canada's answer to San Francisco and one of the world's most livable cities. Surrounded both by water and mountains, Vancouver is a big urban center with laid-back charm. 

Though you deserve to put up your feet after the big drive, that's the last thing you'll want to do in Vancouver, where the people are always on the move, either kayaking, jogging the seawall, climbing the Grouse Grind , or any number of other ways to enjoy the city. You won't be at a loss for things to do in one of North America's trendiest cities.

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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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10 Must-See Places on a Winter Road Trip Across Canada

Posted by Amazing Traveler | Dec 28, 2022 | America | 0 |

Canada is one of the most breathtaking places in the world, and it’s even more beautiful when you visit in winter. The white snow will make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale, but there are also plenty of natural wonders that you’ll want to see. Here are some ideas for must-see places on your next winter road trip across Canada:

1. Cabot Trail

The Cabot Trail is a scenic route through Cape Breton Island, Canada. It is a 298 km highway that takes around 5 hours to cross. If you love the ocean and are fond of breathtaking views, take your car and start your trip. The Cabot Trail, with its breathtaking ocean views, old-growth forests, and stunning Cape Breton Highlands, is considered one of the world’s most scenic travel routes.

2. Niagara Falls

Niagara Falls consists of three waterfalls on the Niagara River, straddling the international border between the Canadian province of Ontario and the US state of New York. This is a great road trip that you can take to see Canada’s largest city Toronto and will admire the natural wonder that displays a breathtaking view of beautiful nature.

3. Icefields Parkway in Alberta

If you’re driving from Jasper to Lake Louise, you’ll pass through this parkway on your way. You can go ice-climbing in Jasper and drive along the road to admire glaciers, mountain peaks, valleys, and ice fields.

4. Vancouver Island, BC

Vancouver Island is a beautiful place to visit in the winter. It has a mild climate and is a great place to go snowshoeing. You can see beautiful beaches and rainforests, admiring the stunning lakes and mountains. Amazing wildlife is waiting for you since you can go whale watching.

5. Quebec City

Quebec City is a must-see destination on a winter road trip across Canada. As the capital of Quebec province, it has all the charm of a small town while also maintaining many well-known attractions that draw tourists from around the world. It’s home to many restaurants and bars as well as museums featuring art exhibitions, photographic exhibits and more.

6. Banff National Park

Banff National Park is the crown jewel of Canadian national parks and a must-see for any visitor to Canada. Its pristine wilderness and spectacular scenery attract millions of visitors each year, who come to enjoy the park’s many natural wonders. Banff National Park is one of the best drives you can take to spend an amazing time and admire stunning waterfalls and forests along the way.

7. Dempster Highway, Yukon

Though, it’s an isolated road, if you look for adventures and want to see one of the most stunning arctic scenery, choose this road. It’s considered one of the unique road trips but will be a little bit more complicated for the vehicle. So, you must prepare your car before each trip to prevent any potential accidents and threats. Change your tires from summer to winter and always contact mobile car repair services once you feel that something is wrong with your car.

8. Viking Trail

The Viking Trail is a drive through the rugged and beautiful landscapes of Newfoundland. This scenic route was named after the Vikings who first settled in Newfoundland and follows the coast, with views of bays, fjords and islands. The road is often surrounded by water on both sides so keep your eyes open for whales!

9. The Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountain is a ski village that’s only about two and five hours from Toronto. You will enjoy walking on local roads and admiring stunning landscapes.

You can ski down mountains and hills and enjoy a breathtaking view. Always spend some time walking around the village.

Chensiyuan at the English-language Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

It’s known for its skiing, hiking and snowshoeing trails, which are popular with beginners and experts alike.

10. Okanagan Valley

Okanagan valley is a worth-visiting road trip destination. It’s one of the best wine regions that go with festivals and wine testing. If you go there in winter, you will enjoy not only the beautiful nature but also will taste wine.

There are so many beautiful places to see in the winter! It’s a fantastic time to travel, especially if you’re an adventurer at heart. All four seasons have their own beauty, but there is something special about seeing the country during its most magical period.

Winter is a great time to get out of the city and see some of Canada’s most beautiful destinations. We hope this list has inspired you to take a trip of your own.

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7 Reasons Why You Should Go on a Winter Road Trip in Canada

A road trip in Canada during the winter? No, I’m not nuts. It can actually be one of the best times of the year to go, if you have a sense of adventure and some winter driving experience!

Aside from all the standard reasons why travelling around Canada in the winter is awesome (snow! skiing!), there are a few more that may well convince you to take to the road next winter.

Read on to find out why winter road trips in Canada are worth the effort. 

Other related posts you may find helpful:

The Complete Guide to Travelling Canada in Winter 65 Cool Things to Do Across Canada in Winter What to Wear in Canada in Winter: A Complete Guide \ Essential Travel Tips for a Winter Road Trip in Canada Snowshoeing 101: A Beginner’s Guide

1. Experience a winter wonderland

Canada in winter is the stuff of Christmas cards and festive films. No, really. Snow makes everything extra pretty, even the most industrial towns and cities.

Take a drive along snowy tree-lined roads to reach vistas with endless white peaks and icy lakes. Bring some snowshoes with you and get even more off the beaten track.

Ever dreamed of staying in a log cabin with a crackling fire, snow softly falling outside? Canada is the place where this dream is real. 

2. Have some of the most popular Canadian sights all to yourself

Want to have the Rockies all to yourself, more or less? Or watch the ocean from a beautiful deserted beach? Explore the most popular city sights in Toronto or Vancouver without long lines or crowds?

Then winter is definitely the perfect time for you to take a road trip in Canada.

Sure, the air may be cool (OK, pretty icy at times) and the ground crisp, but it will be all yours. As a bonus, the Rockies will look even more spectacular with recent snow.

3. Drive British Columbia’s legendary Powder Highway

With 8 world-class ski resorts and endless backcountry opportunities in the Kootenay Rockies, the Powder Highway is well worth driving if you love winter sports. Even if you don’t right now, you may discover a new favourite hobby or two! 

Many of the resorts along BC’s Powder Highway offer Nordic skiing as well as downhill, something that appeals to my slower sensibilities. Snowshoeing is another popular, slower (yet still immersive and surprisingly tiring) winter activity. Plus there are hot springs too!

4. Experience the famous Northern Lights

Canada is a hot spot for the aurora borealis, more commonly known as the Northern Lights. The northern territories are particularly well known for their fabulous winter light displays. 

Having a vehicle means being able to get away from urban light pollution to see the best displays possible. Use Aurora Watch to check the forecast.

We keep seeing the Northern Lights at completely unexpected times, such as while driving in Northern Alberta just recently. Despite being somewhat in a rush, we pulled off the deserted highway to watch what felt like our own private light show.

5. Some animals don’t hibernate in Canada

Yep, I was as surprised as you. Driving around Canada in the winter doesn’t mean that you will necessarily miss out on encountering some beautiful animals by the roadside.

Moose, caribou (reindeer), mountain goats and deer are all Canadian animals that do not hibernate. Winter is therefore still a great time to do some wildlife spotting in Canada. 

We were able to add a few more non-hibernating animals to our list recently, spotting a lynx and lots of big horn sheep near the Rockies. An unforgettable experience!

6. Lower rates on travel expenses

Christmas and ski destinations aside, flights to Canada in winter can be exceptionally reasonable.

Accommodation providers usually offer off-season discounts and specials, though keep in mind that some Canadian businesses do choose to close over the winter.

Gas also seems to be at a lower rate over the winter, something that can really help if you’re planning to travel long distances.

Consider a getaway to Haida Gwaii or elsewhere along the northern coast of British Columbia – BC Ferries offers special off-peak rates on inside passage routes. 

7. It’s not snowy everywhere

Thinking of island getaways – both Haida Gwaii and Vancouver Island receive rain during the winter, not snow. On the latter, you can always head up into the mountains if you miss the fluffy white stuff.

These islands experience intense storms in the winter that can be exhilarating to watch.  Light a fire and watch the storms roll in from your (discounted) oceanside accommodation.

Winter also brings the best surf conditions to the coast. Tofino, on Vancouver Island’s West Coast is a great place to have a go if you’ve never tried surfing before. There is quite a choice of surf schools in this small town. 

Some important notes about road tripping Canada during the winter.

Winter road trips are fun for all of the above reasons and more but it’s not a piece of cake.

• Drive to the conditions
• Don’t rush
• Be prepared (blankets, food, shovel, emergency kit)
• Have a good read of Transport Canada’s winter driving advice before you plan your trip
• Check out our winter road trip safety article for more important winter road trip advice

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One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Howard Steinberg

Friday 18th of January 2019

Been thinking of driving my 2 door Jeep Wrangler lifted jeep ,back home to Vancouver ,B.C it's the end of January and the hardest time to drive across Canada , I thought about sitting out the weather here in Montreal but think the adventure is what my hart calls for. Was wondering since it's going to be a Real cool trip I'd love to blog the trip pictures and the Dayly challenges and wonders I'd like to share as you have done for me . By the way thank you for sharing best info on traveling across Canada in the winter . Cheers . Howard

Monday 21st of January 2019

Sounds like an adventure indeed! I do hope you don't head out in the midst of this crazy storm right now though! Let me know how you get on

Monday 5th of December 2016

I'm planning for a road trip in december (during xmas/new year) from ottawa. I just want to explore scenic places, try different foods and want to be on road (motel or bnb) for a week or so and stay away from city. I heard a lot about some places in quebec. Any suggestions in that front?

Mary {The World Is A Book}

Sunday 18th of January 2015

These are all great reasons to visit Canada during the winter. I love all those wildlife photos! We've only ever made it to Vancouver and Whistler during winter and it's one of our favorite destinations. This is inspiring and hoe we can explore the other parts soon. My daughter is going crazy over that lynx picture right now :) What a sighting!

Monday 19th of January 2015

I'm so glad you like the wildlife photos so much! Seeing the lynx really was so wonderful and completely unexpected. Whistler is a great place to go to get a taster of a snowy Canadian winter, I would love to go back and do some more exploring!

Friday 16th of January 2015

Magical pictures. I personally hate the cold but you guys make a good case for it :)

Thanks! I wasn't ever a fan but it feels nice to be doing winter 'properly' for once! It's certainly better than grey & damp winter days in the UK!

Monday 12th of January 2015

Very cool! My husband had contemplated a winter trip to BC and Alberta since we live pretty close in Washington state. We were worried about the roads though and decided against it at the time. I'm glad to see that it is possible though and we will definitely keep this in mind for the future!

Tuesday 13th of January 2015

Hi Valerie, thanks for your comment. Glad to hear you are considering come up to Canada! If you're not in a rush, winter travel can be really fun. Keep an eye on the weather (current and forecasted), drive to the conditions and don't hurry! And make sure you have good tires of course!

Destinations Detours and Dreams

Canadian Winter Road Trip Tips

Winter driving tips inspired by a Canadian cross-country road trip

Canada is a large country with diverse scenic landscapes. Road trips are a great way to explore the country in summer. Much of the scenery is still spectacular in winter, but winter driving brings challenges. Many areas you may wish to stop (e.g. some areas within parks, campgrounds) are closed in winter. Still, many people do drive across country in winter for a variety of reasons.

A Canadian road trip in winter requires additional precautions and a particular mindset. I was reminded of this when making a 4,650 kilometre (2,890 mile) road trip across two-thirds of Canada from Vancouver, British Columbia to Sarnia, Ontario in late January/early February. Our trip was purely functional as our daughter was moving and we’d offered to drive her vehicle to her new home. In spite of the focus on just getting there, we did enjoy some great scenery along the way. (Well, maybe as a passenger I enjoyed the scenery a bit more than my husband did as driver.) It took us 7 days of driving to get there. (We actually broke those 7 days up with a day in Alberta visiting family and a week back home in Winnipeg to keep previously scheduled appointments, so the full trip spanned a time period of 16 days.) Two of the driving days involved driving after darkness fell, but mostly we planned to stop by dinner time.

Our road trip experience has prompted me to share a few winter driving tips. For more information on winter driving read the following articles: Winter Driving from the Government of Canada, Safe Winter Driving Tips from the Canadian Automobile Association, and Winter Driving Tips from the American Automobile Association.

Winter Driving Technique

Winter driving requires different techniques than summer driving. Even people who have lived in winter climates for years need to readjust every year, as evidenced by the horrendous commute on the day winter first blasts into town.

Winter driving is slower. You need to slow down to account for lower traction on snow or ice. You need to accelerate and decelerate slowly to get traction and to avoid skids. Ice builds up at intersections and it will take longer to get going again after being stopped at a red light. On very cold days, exhaust fog from the car in front of you may reduce visibility as you pull away from the light.

It takes a longer distance to stop. You need to allow more distance between you and the vehicle in front of you. You need to know how to push the brake slowly but firmly and how and when to let up if there is any feeling of the wheels locking up or the start of a skid. Know how your car and brakes react to be best prepared. Here is a good article on winter braking .

Vehicle Readiness

Ensuring your vehicle is tuned up and in good working order before embarking on a road trip is prudent in any season, but there are some extra things to consider in winter. Make sure brakes are in good shape. Make sure your battery is strong and fully charged. Our daughter had an issue with her battery just before our drive and wound up putting in a new one. We are glad she did. There were a couple of very cold nights on our trip. I’m not sure how well her car would have started on the old battery.

Not only are winter tires a good safety measure as they provide better traction and braking, there are some roads, such as most of the roads through British Columbia from October to April, where they are mandatory. Also, make sure tires are properly inflated. Tire pressure goes down in the cold. On one of the nights on the road, the night we spent in Thunder Bay, Ontario, overnight temperature dropped to -30 Celsius (-22 Fahrenheit). When we started the vehicle the next morning, a light came on to warn us one of the tires was low. We planned to add air to the tire at the next stop, but the warning went away after we’d driven a bit and things warmed up.

Fill your windshield washer tank with an all-season or winter washer fluid. Check the level and refill as needed during the road trip. We had stretches where wet snow, slushy roads, and splashing from passing semi-trailer trucks resulted in almost constant use of washer fluid and wipers.

Notes About Block Heaters

Block heaters are standard in some parts of Canada, such as the prairies and in northern Canada, but are unlikely to be found in other areas, such as southern Ontario or southern British Columbia. A block heater is an electric heating element installed in the engine that warms engine fluids. Oil gets thick when it gets cold making it harder to start the engine and increasing engine wear. Block heaters are used when temperatures drop to -15 or -20 Celsius and the vehicle will be left in the cold for several hours or overnight. Plugging the heater into an electrical outlet a few hours before starting the vehicle warms the oil enough to make starting easier.

It is possible to do a Canadian winter road trip without a block heater. Our daughter’s vehicle didn’t have one. It started even on that cold Thunder Bay morning, but I suspect it would not have had it still had the old battery.

Last winter we rented a vehicle in northern Alberta. Thinking the rental car would come equipped with a block heater, I asked if the company supplied an extension cord. I was told there was no block heater and that new cars didn’t need them. I was skeptical. The car would be parked overnight on an hotel’s outdoor parking lot. I envisioned an upset call to the rental company one morning when it wouldn’t start. However, it did start, albeit a little roughly, every morning, even in temperatures of -30 Celsius.

Drive To Conditions

On our January drive in variable speed limit sections of Highways 5 and 1 through the British Columbia mountains, digital displays on overhead signs flashed the current speed limit, adjusted for conditions. This was nice, but it is not a common occurrence when driving across Canada. Most of the time it is up to the driver to make decisions about when to slow down and exercise other cautions because of road and weather conditions. You may occasionally encounter a “Drive To Conditions” road sign, but even those reminders will be few and far between.

What does “drive to conditions” means? For one, it means that the posted speed limit may be too high a speed to travel if the road is wet or icy or if visibility is poor. Drive at a speed where you can comfortably handle the car without it slipping or skidding off the road. Allow enough space between you and vehicles in front of you so you don’t run into them should they slow down or stop. Remember that it takes a lot more room and time to stop on slippery, icy roads. If there is fog or blowing snow, have your lights on. Make sure your headlights and back lights are clean. Messy roads can dirty your lights sooner than you may realize. Check and clean them when you stop to refuel so you can see the road ahead of you and people coming up behind you can see you are there.

Cruise control is meant for places where you can drive at a steady speeds, not for windy roads or in heavy traffic. It should not be used on wet or icy roads. If your wheels lose traction and start to spin, cruise control could keep you accelerating and put you into a skid.

“Drive to conditions” is good advice for all seasons. It’s just that you may have to heed that advice more frequently in winter.

What To Have Inside Your Vehicle

A snow brush and ice scraper are essential. As with road trips in any season, make sure you have water. Food and snacks are recommended to have on hand in case of a breakdown or becoming stranded. Snacks are more than simply an emergency supply for me. I like to have something around to take the edge off hunger if it strikes when we are some distance away from the next town or place to stop for food. The Canadian Automobile Association has a list of recommended items for your winter emergency kit . I’ll admit we didn’t have everything on the list with us, but we did have a number of items. The paper towels came in very handy for wiping off the headlights and mirrors. Fortunately, we never needed to use the shovel, but I would still make sure I had one in a future trip.

Planning And Mapping Your Route

Whether you choose to schedule your trip in advance with nights pre-booked at specific hotels or determine how far you will travel each day as you are on the road, know your limits. Drive only as many hours as you feel comfortable doing. Factor in the frequency and length of stops along the way. Be aware of those long stretches where it might be hours to the major town or city.  

Shortened hours of daylight may impact how long you want to spend driving each day. We’ve done 15 hours of driving in one day in summer when the sun doesn’t set until between 9 and 10 pm. However, we choose not to do that in winter when sunset occurs between 5 and 6 pm . Driving on unfamiliar roads in the dark can be stressful particularly if those roads are windy or through mountainous terrain.

Check weather and road conditions daily. Things can change from day to day. You may need to adjust plans due to inclement weather or road closures. Provinces have websites listing current road conditions. We spent a night in Merritt, British Columbia and planned to drive from there to the Calgary area the following day. In the morning, when I checked road conditions, I discovered that a 142-kilometre section of road from Revelstoke to Golden would be closed for a couple of hours midday for avalanche control work. There is no detour for that route through the mountains. Even if we’d left the hotel right that moment, it was unlikely we’d get to Revelstoke before the closure started. We opted to linger over breakfast and take a more leisurely drive to Revelstoke and then wait in Revelstoke until the road re-opened. The road opened up shortly after we arrived in Revelstoke. We made it through but with a delay that resulted in a couple more hours of night driving than we would have preferred. We were lucky that the closure was only for a couple of hours. An avalanche could have resulted in a closure of a couple of days.

We use a combination of old-fashioned paper maps and GPS on my phone to navigate. We like to see the full context of our day’s planned drive on the paper map before we set out and use the paper map as a general guide. I turn to GPS on my phone to navigate inside a town or get us to our hotel. If you are someone who relies solely on cellular GPS, be aware you may encounter sections without cell service. I was surprised to find we encountered very few “no service” zones on our route through the British Columbia mountains, but we had long stretches in northwestern Ontario without service.

I advise caution in relying solely on GPS especially when away from major routes. Occasionally stories about people being led disastrously astray by blindly following GPS hit the news. Although this can happen in any season, the impact of being stranded in an isolated place in winter can be more severe.

Patience And Flexibility

Patience and flexibility are always good travel companions. They are essential on a winter road trip. Road closures or dangerous driving conditions due to storms and inclement weather may necessitate trip delays or rerouting. Be prepared to spend an extra day in a town along the way if necessary.

Spectacular Scenery

When you read about the necessary precautions and the potential dangers, you may wonder why anyone would even attempt a Canadian winter road trip. I’ll admit we are in no hurry to do another winter road trip. It has its stresses. Someone with no winter driving experience may want to reconsider road trip plans or limit driving to “safer” sections.

In spite of the challenges, many people do drive across sections of Canada in the winter for a myriad of reasons. Whatever those reasons are, they will be greeted with spectacular scenery in many parts of the drive. I am well aware of how beautiful much of Canada is in summer. I was delightfully surprised to discover how scenic the landscape can be in winter. I will end this post with a few photos I took along the way.

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All good advice. But I’ll take that ride in the summer.

Ken, wise choice. Summer offers less stressful driving and more attractions to stop at and visit.

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How to plan it, the best routes to take, and more information on driving across the nation

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Article content

The question isn’t “why would you want to drive across Canada?” so much as “why wouldn’t you want to?”

I guess if you hate nature, fascinating culture and kind people, then maybe you should stay home. But if you’re OK with those things and lots more adventure, then you should totally consider taking that epic Canadian road trip. 

Everything you need to know before road-tripping across Canada Back to video

For our purposes, we’re defining “cross Canada” a few different ways: from the Maritimes to Vancouver; and from Central Canada to Vancouver. We’ll also give some shout-outs to a number of other classic Canadian road trip routes. Read on to learn what you need to know before driving across Canada.

What’s the best route to drive across Canada?

If your objective is to get from centres like Halifax on the East coast or those in central Canada like Montreal or Toronto to Vancouver or vice-versa as quickly as possible and you don’t mind crossing an international border a couple times, then much of your drive will in fact be done in the United States.

The quickest routes from east to west all carve out much of Ontario and all of Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta, crossing into U.S. territory at border stations along the way. It’s the difference of five hours from the Southern Ontario centre of Toronto to Vancouver on the West if you go through the U.S. versus staying in Canada, and even less the further north you travel.  

If you’d rather not fish out the passport, or if borders are closed at the time you’re reading this, you can keep it between the national lines by driving up around the detour that is Lake Superior. “Best” is subjective in this sense, but we recommend getting the full Canuck experience if you’re able. At the right time of year, the drive up around Lake Superior and across the prairies is staggeringly beautiful and rewarding. 

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByEFWMNBqug/

How long does it take to travel across Canada by car?

Again, if you’re looking for the quickest route, dipping into the U.S. will save time. Google Maps clocks a Halifax to Vancouver drive at 57 hours (5,793 km) regardless of whether you cross the border into Maine or Michigan. That gets boosted up to 60 hours (5,834 km) if you choose to stay in the country and pass through Thunder Bay. 

The drive from Toronto to Vancouver takes 41 hours (4,173 km) through the U.S.; and 46 hours (4,410 km) to keep it national. From Quebec City to Vancouver, it’s 47 hours (4,806 km) through the U.S.; and 50 hours (4,839 km) through Canada. 

Keep in mind these drive times are just that, “drive” times. Most people won’t be setting out to cover 1,000 km a day, so plan to take a week or more to really enjoy the experience and not feel like you’re racing across the continent. 

How do I plan a road trip across Canada?

https://www.instagram.com/p/CDrD0K2j3XI/

This article is a good place to start. Also, Google Maps or other map applications like Waze, or paper maps if you’re old school. Online, just plug in your start and end point, including any stops you’d like to hit along the way, and let the program do its thing. With a route and estimated drive time in mind, you can start to plan stops in specific locations, and budget accordingly. For those looking to travel or camp off-road, having access to topographical maps is also a good idea. 

If you plan on staying along the Trans-Canada Highway, you can visit TransCanadaHighway.com for information on sites, closures, speed traps, highway history, and more. 

Where should I go on a road trip in Canada?

https://www.instagram.com/p/CAQnfKwp-yX/

Crossing the country from coast to coast is an epic trip and almost a Canadian rite of passage, but it’s far from the only route worthy of planning a motoring vacation around. There are world-class road-trip options from just about every Canadian centre, large or small. Check out our list of popular road trip routes in Atlantic Canada here or our list of popular British Columbia road trips here . 

How much does a road trip across Canada cost?

Cost all depends on the type of traveller you are and what kind of vehicle you’re driving. If you’re driving a thirsty V8, taking your time travelling just a few hours a day, eating at all the best bistros and staying at the trendiest Airbnbs, then don’t expect to spend less than a couple hundred dollars a day per couple. 

If, on the other hand, you’ve got a frugal hatchback filled with your homemade granola and camping equipment, and an app like GasBuddy to tell you where the most economical place to fill up is, it is possible to get by with basically just the cost of gas, which at the time of writing sits at $1.33/L on average in Canada, plus a few extras. So, if you’re driving a base model 2020 Honda CR-V with a combined city-highway fuel consumption rating of 7.7 L/100 km, for example, then travelling the approximately 4,000 km across Canada would cost around $410 in gas alone.

Realistically, however, any type of travel in Canada is more expensive, and even budget travellers should expect to spend around $100 a day. 

Can you rent a car to drive across Canada?

Yes, most car rental companies offer pick-up and drop-off options in many Canadian cities. Borrowing a compact sedan from Enterprise for a journey from Vancouver to Toronto, for example, will likely cost you around $1,200 plus taxes. 

Other rental services like CanadaDream , which lends recreational vehicles; and RVezy , an app that allows RV and other camper vehicle owners to rent their units to other app members online, provide other options for Canadian road-trippers.  

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Epic Canada Road Trip Driving Across Country in 6 Days

By: Author Susan Moore

Posted on Last updated: December 6, 2023

Who wants to spend 50 hours driving across Canada in one week? In August I did just that. I drove 50 hours from Calgary Alberta to Bridgewater Nova Scotia in only 6 days. Solo. I know, I could fly there so much faster. But then I wouldn’t have my car. And my stuff. And the adventure of a cross Canada road trip on my own!

It was a great experience to drive those 3,100 miles (5,000 km) from Southern Alberta to the South Shore region of Nova Scotia all by myself. Alberta – Saskatchewan – Manitoba – Ontario – Quebec – New Brunswick – Nova Scotia . I drove through 7 provinces in six days.

No speeding tickets :)

Canada Road Trip

This road trip happened in mid-August and weather conditions cooperated with my travel plans. I would not attempt driving from Calgary to Nova Scotia in the winter.

I’m strictly a fair weather solo road tripper.

Bright red skeleton of the Peace Bridge which connects pedestrians to downtown Calgary

My longest road trip in Canada until this big cross Canada driving experience started in Vancouver, included stops in Armstrong BC, Lake Louise , Banff , and ended in Calgary .

READ: 5 Awesome glacial lakes in Alberta and BC

If you are driving across Canada from Vancouver then I would recommend stops in the Okanagan Valley for the wineries and wonderful fruit orchards. Also make time for at least a couple of these national parks:

• Mount Revelstoke National Park in BC
• Glacier National Park in BC
• Yoho  National Park in BC – check out Emerald Lake and Kicking Horse River plus a beautiful and easy hike to the amazing Wapta Falls and check out Takakkaw Falls too! Golden BC is an excellent place to stay while exploring the national parks.
• Kootenay National Park in BC
• Jasper National Park – Amazing hiking , kayaking , and fishing in Jasper. Drive the Icefields Parkway highway from Banff to Jasper – one of the most beautiful drives in the world!
• Banff National Park – Camping, hiking , fishing, canoeing and kayaking, and wildlife viewing

LEARN MORE: 15 Famous Landmarks in Canada

Goslings galore feeding at Prince’s Island Park in downtown Calgary

My previous longest road trip I drove over 2,500 miles (4,025 km) from Lafayette LA to Calgary AB including stops in Yellowstone NP in Wyoming ( read my guide to planning a trip to Yellowstone )  and Glacier National Park in Montana.

READ: 5 Reasons you must go to Yellowstone

In This Article:

Drive across Canada via USA or northern Ontario route?

Well it wouldn’t be a cross CANADA road trip if I skipped down to the USA for a bit now would it!?

In the beginning stages of planning my road trip across Canada I began with Google maps to find the best route and how many hours it takes to drive from Alberta to Nova Scotia.

Google presented me with three route options, all roughly the same mileage and total driving time of 49 hours.

READ now: 9 Cape Breton Hikes on the Famous Cabot Trail

Cross Canada road trip from Calgary to Nova Scotia driving route options from Google Maps

Route 1 via Trans-Canada Hwy

Drive across Canada without entering the USA. This route is Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia.

Route 2 via US-2 E

Drive from Alberta to Saskatchewan, into the USA at North Dakota, then Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, back to Canada via Ontario, then Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia.

Route 3 via I-90 E

Drive from Alberta to Saskatchewan, into the USA at North Dakota, then Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York , Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Maine , cross back into Canada via New Brunswick, ferry to Nova Scotia.

I opted to go with the all Canada driving route because two border crossings, into the US and back into Canada could add time to my trip.

Driving in the busy summer holiday time I figured I would do better to avoid border crossings and stick with the Trans-Canada Highway most of the way.

The route goes through Northern Ontario for several hundred kilometers on secondary highways with less traffic than the Trans-Canada Highway.

READ: 10 Day Nova Scotia Road Trip Itinerary (with Maps)

Kapuskasing River is a branch of the Mattagami River in Ontario Canada

Ferry or drive from New Brunswick to Nova Scotia?

The idea of taking a ferry may be alluring, but it probably won’t save you any time.

The ferry from News Brunswick to Nova Scotia only shaved 20 or 30 minutes off the trip so I opted to drive instead.

The reason I chose to drive is that I didn’t want to buy a ferry ticket in advance, just in case I experienced a delay in my trip. And ferries can be cancelled due to weather.

Plus, it costs around $150 CAD for the ferry and you need to be checked in 1 hour before departure time. That’s way too much pressure for driving Day 6.

This small replica lighthouse next to the Welcome to Nova Scotia sign greets travelers

Planning where to stop while driving across Canada

You could simply drive until you decide to stop and then find a place to stay each night during a road trip.

But I prefer to know where I am staying in advance.

I don’t want the hassle of being stranded and having to sleep in my car.

My Toyota Yaris is a compact car and it’s loaded up with all my stuff, so sleeping in my car would be my last choice and I would only do it in an emergency.

If you have a van set up and you can sleep in your vehicle then you have a lot more flexibility on where you stop for the night.

If I were sleeping in my vehicle, I would plan a few options for locations to stop each night.

Camping out I would plan to visit a lot of National Parks and Provincial Parks along the way.

READ: Icefields Parkway itinerary – from Banff to Jasper

Grant Hall Hotel in Moose Jaw SK with burrowing owls (by artist Gus Froese) atop pillars in the Burrowing Owl Lobby

How many hours per day do you want to drive?

Are you one of those people that can drive for 14 hours and not feel exhausted? If you are, I’m jealous!

Although I am improving, normally I prefer to spend around 6 to 8 hours driving per day when I relocate from one nomad home to the next location.

I generally spend one month at each location but sometimes only a week to 10 days.

READ: Pros and cons of a nomadic lifestyle

After my mom died in January 2017 and I needed to get back to Calgary to help my siblings take care of my dad (who has Alzheimer’s) I opted to drive 3 days in a row for 10-plus hours per day. It worked out okay and I found out I could do these long-haul road trips.

You need to know how many hours you will want to be behind the wheel.

You can take the slow and steady approach and drive 3 -4 hours per day, leaving you time to explore at each stop along the way. If you are traveling with young children this might be your best option.

Or you can spend all day driving in order to get to your final destination with time to relax and explore.

Pristine lakes and wilderness are the constant companion driving through much of Quebec

How many days do you want to drive?

The most perfect summer road trip would take me across Canada over three or four months.

But I didn’t have that kind of time, after visiting with family, so I made a choice to drive across the country within a week.

I wanted time to explore Nova Scotia during summer.

There’s so much Canada but only so much summer!

With my cross Canada trip taking an estimated fifty hours of driving I could split my trip into 5 days of 10 hours driving per day.

Sounds reasonable, but instead of 5 evenly paced driving days I opted to start my trip with a short 6-hour drive to Moose Jaw SK on Day 1, then 4 longer (9 – 10 hr) driving days and finish up with a short 5-hour drive on Day 6, New Brunswick into Bridgewater NS.

Al Capone’s desk in Moose Jaw Saskatchewan – Tunnels of Moose Jaw Tour

I chose my driving schedule based on how it would fit with my work schedule. I have one client for which I work on a pre-set time of Monday afternoon and Wednesday morning.

So, I left on Wednesday and planned to arrive in Bridgewater Nova Scotia by Monday afternoon, working from my apartment rental.

READ: Tips for planning solo travel

Some people would prefer to drive 4 days straight with 12+ hour driving time each day.

This is a better option if you are on a tight budget, for both money and time, because you would save 2 nights lodging.

You could also sleep in your vehicle if you have it set up for van life, or camping is yet another option.

Terry Fox Memorial and Lookout in Thunder Bay ON

Summer is high season for travel in Canada

Remember that summer is always high season for travel in Canada, so accommodation can be tricky, popular tourist spots like Banff and Jasper are booked weeks or months in advance.

Sometimes you can get last minute bookings but those are rare.

If you can’t book your accommodation in advance, then it’s best to be flexible with your plans and check to see what are the other options around the area.

The blue eye of this wolf-dog caught my eye in Kapuskasing ON, and his owner had a remarkable life story

Planning the stops on a cross country road trip

Here’s how I planned out my stops while driving across Canada over six days.

I used Google maps to plan out my road trip and find the driving distances. Figuring out my main route for the whole trip, then dissecting the trip into chunks of time.

It took me a few tries to figure out where to make each stop during my trip because sometimes there were no accommodations around the 10-hour portion of the driving day I planned.

Basically, I would eyeball on Google maps an approximate stopping point and enter the nearest town as my ending point to see how many hours it would take to drive that section of road.

Then I checked for nearby motels or budget hotels for availability and pricing. I wanted to keep the costs under control, so I set a budget of $75 USD ($100 CAD) per night for lodging.

READ: Cutest cottage in Cape Breton

I used both Booking.com and apartment rental sites to book my accommodations.

On one occasion I called a motel directly because it was not listed on any of the internet booking sites, but I could see it on Google maps.

Kapuskasing Ontario welcome sign. The name derives from the Cree word for branch

Calgary AB to Bridgewater NS road trip stops

Driving day 1 – calgary ab to moose jaw sk.

685 km (425 miles) 6.5 hours driving time Highlight: Visiting Al Capone Tunnels in Moose Jaw

Driving day 2 – Moose Jaw SK to Ignace ON

1,100 km (685 miles) 11 hours driving time Highlight: Not getting hit by irresponsible drivers passing unsafely

Driving day 3 – Ignace ON to Kapuskasing ON

840 km (520 miles) 9 hours driving time Highlight: Terry Fox Memorial in Thunder Bay

Driving day 4 –  Kapuskasing ON to Prevost QC

900 km (560 miles) 10 hours driving time Highlight: Moose in Quebec and most scenic drive of the trip

Driving day 5 – Prevost QC to Jemseg NB

925 km (575 miles) 9 hours driving time Highlight: Getting lost around Montreal, my daft brain couldn’t get Ouest and Est straight LOL, Ouest is West and Est is East, pretty easy…but not for me evidently!

Driving day 6 – Jemseg NB to Bridgewater NS

460 km (285 miles) 4.5 hours driving time Highlight: Driving near Bay of Fundy at low tide, amazing!

Driving across Quebec I spotted these two young moose grazing near the water

Driving across Canada pay attention to time zones

When driving from west to east you lose an hour as you move into each new time zone, grrrr that’s not fun.

Of course, you gain an hour when driving from east to west, so much better!

And remember, Canada has a couple of extra time zones compared to the US.

There’s Atlantic time in the Maritime provinces of New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Prince Edward Island.

Plus Newfoundland time zone is an additional 30 minutes. That’s right a 30-minute time zone, not an hour.

Check sunrise and sunset times

I checked the sunrise and sunset times for the locations I would be stopping during my road trip.

I wanted to be at my hotel before dusk if possible. It’s nice to have time to enjoy a sit-down dinner and go for a walk after driving all day.

I don’t drive at night and prefer to stop driving before dusk because there is a higher chance of wildlife crossing the highways.

Hitting a deer would probably total my little Toyota Yaris…not to mention the fate of the deer :/

What does it cost to drive across the country?

Here is the breakdown of costs (August 2018) for my road trip across Canada from Calgary AB to Bridgewater NS over six days.

This includes gasoline, lodging, and dining out during my cross-country drive.

Note that the costs for petrol and lodgings have increased substantially. It’s best to do research before your trip so you don’t have sticker shock when you book accommodations or buy gasoline.

Gasoline cost for cross Canada road trip

Gasoline total cost: $332 USD ($440 CAD)

Priciest budget item on my cross-country journey turned out to be gasoline.

The most expensive place I purchased gasoline during this road trip was in Ontario. Two of the places charged over $1.50 per liter in northern Ontario. That works out to over $6 CAD ($4.50 USD) per gallon of gas.

Trading Post Motel in Ignace ON complete with super heroes and airplane along Hwy 17

Lodging costs for cross Canada road trip

Total accommodation costs: $304 USD ($402 CAD)

Average $61 USD ($80 CAD) per night

I drove an extra hour to avoid staying in Dryden ON because the cheapest place I found charged $125 CAD per night. I continued onward to Ignace Ontario and paid $80 (CAD) per night.

My cheapest night was at Travelodge Moose Jaw SK for $52 USD ($69 CAD) total including taxes.

Most expensive accommodation was Prevost QC at $73 USD (97 CAD) including taxes.

Here’s the list of places I stayed at during my drive across Canada in 6 days/5 nights:

• Travelodge Moose Jaw SK $52 USD ($69 CAD)
• Trading Post Motel in Ignace ON $60 USD ($80 CAD)
• Park Inn Motel in Kapuskasing ON $62 USD ($82 CAD)
• La Voyageur Motel in Prevost Quebec $73 USD ($97 CAD)
• Cottage in Jemseg New Brunswick $57 USD ($76 CAD)

Food costs for cross Canada road trip

Total food spend for restaurant meals $166 USD ($220 CAD)

You could save money on food during your road trip with some pre-trip planning. Think about the foods you’ll eat while on the road and stock up on those items beforehand.

Here are some of my preferred road trip snacks and meals:

Pumpkin seeds Plantain chips Crackers Dried fruit Cherry tomatoes Cucumber Cookies Bananas Apples Jerky – did you know about BACON jerky?!! Also turkey, and salmon jerky, it’s not all about beef. Sardines – goes great with some crackers, and beer :)

If I could eat nuts, I would bring those too, but I’m allergic :/

My reward at the end of a long day of driving is usually a sit-down meal and a beer or two, preferably at a locally owned restaurant within walking distance of my lodgings.

Feasting on fish cakes with veggies, dinner salad, and cornbread at Creekview Restaurant in Gagetown NB

Just in case no restaurants are open or close by, I also bring emergency rations.

My emergency food is sardines and crackers.

Probably a lot of people would find that repulsive, but I like sardines and crackers, goes great with beer.

Meal costs while roadtripping across Canada

Moose Jaw Saskatchewan dinner x2 (fish $23 CAD and Greek salad/pork stick $27 CAD) and breakfast $15 CAD

Ignace Ontario – dinner at hotel across the highway $40 CAD Walleye/salad/2 beers, breakfast $15 CAD at hotel across the highway

Kapuskasing Ontario – dinner/beers at O’Brien’s pub $49 CAD, breakfast of 3 biscuits with bacon from Timmy’s (Tim Hortons) $10 CAD

Prevost Quebec – no restaurants within walking distance and I was too tired to drive another minute, so dinner of sardines and crackers. No breakfast :/  Maybe that’s why I got lost around Montreal.

Jemseg New Brunswick – I drove to Creekview Restaurant in Gagetown NB for chowder, beer, fish cakes and salad $40 CAD

Notice I ate two dinners in Moose Jaw. What’s up with that? Driving is hungry work!

Seafood chowder with biscuit at Creekview Restaurant in Gagetown NB

What about Canada highway toll charges?

There are a few toll charges according to Google Maps, but I don’t remember paying any tolls during this road trip across Canada.

When I left Nova Scotia to drive south to Maine there was a toll charge in New Brunswick.

Also note that if you take either of the USA routes you can expect to pay tolls.

In my experience, most places either accept cash payments or they will take a photo of your license plate and mail a toll invoice to you later.

Massachusetts sent me a bill for $2.30 when I drove through on my way to St Augustine Florida to enjoy the Florida coast and beaches .

Total cost of road trip across Canada

Total cost of my road trip across Canada from Calgary AB to Bridgewater NS for lodging, meals, and gas added up to $1,061 CAD ($802 USD) total.

Plus, snacks I purchased before I left Calgary, around $5/day so I’m going to say $29 CAD ($22 USD) to make it a nice even number for the total.

Total cost of road trip: $1,090 CAD ($824 USD)

The total cost for this epic 6-day cross country road trip is right in the ballpark for how much I estimated I would spend.

While my lodgings cost a bit less than my budget, gas and food cost a bit more.

Overall this Canadian road trip worked out great for me and I would do it again.

Driving for 6 days in order to spend a month exploring Nova Scotia was totally worth the effort, money, and time.

My dream Canada road trip would start from Tofino on Vancouver Island and finish in Newfoundland .

But I would want a few months for that 7,400 km (4,600 miles) monster road trip.

Greeting travelers at the visitor center in Nova Scotia, a bagpiper in a kilt

Tips for planning a cross country solo road trip

Download Google offline maps – this is a must because you will not have internet access in some locations.

Bring some cash with you. Sometimes there are cash only places in remote towns.

Get a AAA (America Automobile Association) or CAA (Canadian Automobile Association) membership so that you will have emergency roadside assistance if you need it.

Get paper maps in case all your technology dies.

If you have AAA membership you can get maps for free. CAA and AAA are affiliated so your membership in one allows you to the services in the other association/country.

They also have location guidebooks with listings for lodgings and restaurants.

Remember summer is high season for travel anywhere in Canada.

Book lodgings in advance, particularly if you are staying in popular tourist spots. Banff National Park or Jasper National Park are the two most visited national parks in Canada and the hiking is the BEST!

Read now: Hiking Valley of the Five Lakes in Jasper National Park

Tips for driving across Canada on a budget

Plan your meals in advance and shop at discount grocery stores, buy in bulk when possible.

Watch for sales and stock up on non-perishable items before your road trip.

Foraging for food is another way to save money on meals. You need to know what you’re doing otherwise you could become seriously ill or even die from eating something poisonous. Take classes and learn, or bring a foraging expert with you on your road trip :)

Gasoline may be the largest percentage of your budget, if possible, use a vehicle that gets great gas mileage.

Don’t keep luggage/cargo on your roof. Do use cruise control (when roads are dry) to keep your speed within the posted speed limit.

Typically, when driving over 50 mph (80 kph) gas mileage decreases quite a bit.

If you camp or sleep in your vehicle you will save a bundle of cash.

You need to know where it’s okay to park overnight and where to find free camping. The website Fresh Off the Grid has a resource listing in this post about finding free camping in the USA and Canada . They also have recipes for camping meals.

How about you, what’s on your roadtripping bucket list? What’s your best road trip tip?

Save it for later on Pinterest and SHARE!

Wednesday 27th of July 2022

I am planning a trip with my husband from Ottawa, Ontario to Nova Scotia early August. Have about 3 weeks to do it in. Planning to stay in Hilton hotels along the way, looking for any suggestions on where to stop for attractions, food along the route. Thanks

Susan Moore

Friday 29th of July 2022

Liz, You have lots of time so you may want to stop in Quebec City on the way, so many great restaurants in the old city. And visit Montmorency Falls too! For Nova Scotia you can have a look at my 10-day road trip itinerary for lots of ideas for attractions and food recommendations. Also check out my list of places to visit in summer in Nova Scotia. Have a wonderful road trip! Susan

Friday 15th of July 2022

Hello Susan, Very helpful to read this. I need to drive from Blue Hill, Maine to Whidbey Island, WA leaving August 18th. I have 10-11 days. I'll be alone, I'm 65, and drove across the US from Whidbey two years ago. Now I'll be moving to Washington State and need my car there. Since I have a little extra time, I'm wondering if there are a couple of places you recommend I should spend a 1-2 days? Both to rest and to sightsee. Since I'm moving to Whidbey I can easily travel up to BC from my new home at a later time, so am asking for places east of there for this trip. I've also looked at google maps and see their basic route recommendations. Wondering if you have any thoughts about whether to go the southern route through Sault Ste. Marie, or the more northerly one that goes above Lake Superior and through Winnepeg, or a mix of the two routes, or something else? Also, I see that someone mentioned ferries in their reply. Will I encounter the need to book ferries while in Canada? All of this is given that Covid restrictions allow this of course!

I thank you for the article and any other tips.

Sunday 17th of July 2022

@CL, You're welcome! If you search for "hotels near Batchawana Bay" on Google and then have a look at the map and zoom in a bit, it shows a few options for cabins and motels close by: Chicken Shack Motel, the Sawpit Bay Motel. I stayed at the Parkway Motel in (or near?) Wawa on my most recent road trip across Ontario and I liked it a lot. In Wawa there's a beautiful waterfall called Magpie Falls, I think the signage is Scenic High Falls. Also the Wawa Goose - it's big! Wawa means "Wild Goose" in Ojibwe. Have FUN! Susan

Saturday 16th of July 2022

@Susan Moore, thank you so much!! Batchawana Bay area looks wonderful, though no hotels along that entire shoreline area on either booking.com or google maps? There is something called the Lakeview Inn in Wawa though, so perhaps that will work! thanks again!

Cynthia, That's going to be a great summer road trip! And since you've already made the cross country drive before you have some good experience with making the long drive.

For the 1 - 2 days resting/sightseeing I think Lake Superior is the best place to stop along the way. From Blue Hill drive to Batchawana Bay on Lake Superior and continue the trip on the north side of Superior. I suggest staying at (or close to) Lake Superior Provincial Park, Pukaskwa National Park, or Sleeping Giant Provincial Park. Continue to Thunder Bay ON - a lovely place to stay as well! And then follow Lake Superior down to Minnesota, across North Dakota into Montana. The Rocky Mountains are another perfect place to stop for a rest and enjoy gorgeous scenery. Bozeman MT is a beautiful small town to stop for a night or two.

Alternatively, you could drive from Thunder Bay across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and into Alberta. Stop in Waterton Lakes National Park and then south into Glacier National Park in northern Montana. But that's also easy enough for you to visit from Whidbey later on - and after Labor Day it's less crowded!

As to ferries, no you won't need to take any ferries for your trip in Canada. I believe the previous comment was regarding a trip across Canada to Newfoundland and that does require a ferry trip.

I hope you have a wonderful road trip with great weather, stunning scenery, and all good vibes along the way!

Cheers, Susan

Friday 20th of May 2022

Enjoyed reading your blog Susan. I am also from Calgary and planning a 6 week road trip to Newfoundland. The plan is to take 8 - 9 days to cross Canada and then spend 4 weeks in Newfoundland before driving back. The plan is to get across Saskatchewan and into Manitoba as quickly as possible and then slow down once I hit Ontario. Any recommendations on stops along the lake Superior route in Ontario? I have set ferry reservations, but since I have allocated a couple of extra days to get across the country I thought I would break up the trip a little. Looking forward to reading more of your adventures

Maria, Thank you, glad you're enjoying the blog. You're plan sounds great, the drive along Lake Superior is absolutely gorgeous. Last year I drove Calgary to Maritimes in 6 weeks and stopped in Emo Ontario and the drive along Hwy 11 was beautiful. The drive along Lake Superior is stunning. I stopped in Thunder Bay for a week and enjoyed staying there and I stopped 1 night in Wawa because it's close to Lake Superior Provincial Park. If you only have a day or two I would try to stay in/near the parks. Sleeping Giant Provincial Park, Pukaskwa National Park, Lake Superior Provincial Park, and Batchawana Bay are all great places to do some hiking and enjoy the view of Lake Superior. Basically you can't go wrong with a stop along Lake Superior! I was blown away by the beauty and would like to drive it again and spend 2 or 3 weeks along Superior. I'm driving to Newfoundland too, at the end of May, but from Nova Scotia :) I hope you have an amazing road trip! Susan

Friday 8th of April 2022

Greetings, your article is the best, loaded with great information. I am going from Niagara area to Radium Hot Springs later this year...looking forward to using your tips. Thanks

Thank you, I hope you have an amazing road trip adventure from Ontario to BC. And to be honest, I'm a bit jealous, I haven't driven east to west in Canada yet! But I have driven Hwy 93 to Radium and it is spectacular. Enjoy your travels! Cheers, Susan

Wednesday 6th of October 2021

Susan, THANKS for sharing your epic solo driving trip across Canada! It’s inspiring as I’m planning a 4-6 weeks roadtrip next year. Appreciate all your helpful hints! Years ago I took a Greyhound bus ride from Vancouver to Toronto for $99!

Thursday 7th of October 2021

Hi Helen, Vancouver to Toronto by bus WOW! That is a looooong bus ride LOL, but the price, so cheap! Glad you found this article helpful and I hope you have beautiful weather and wonderful experiences on your road trip next year. I did the Calgary to Nova Scotia trip again this summer, BUT I took 6 weeks and it was an outstanding trip. I spent quite a bit of time around Lake Superior, simply gorgeous! And I finally made it to PEI, stunning scenery and scenic drives all around the island. Canada has so much natural beauty to enjoy and explore. Best wishes on your adventures, Helen! Susan

Winter In Canada: What Are Your Canada Road Trip Essentials?

Adventures on winter roads in Canada may include fewer people, lower rates, and beautiful snowy landscapes. Hence, you can’t restrict the road adventures to the summer only. But there is a big BUT!

Driving across Canada in winter can be terrifying. You might have experience driving in winter, but Canada offers you a totally different adventure. Driving at -25 degrees Celsius with no mobile service demands a strong and brave driver. But yes, even a small mistake during driving can be fatal.

You’ll see that each Canadian province offers rigorous winter driving regulations. You must be aware of all the tiny details of driving during winter in Canada to avoid your fun being spoiled. You can add spice to your adventure and winter road trip by enjoying it to the fullest.

So, come out of your room, pack your bags, sit in the car, and fasten your seat belt. We’ll walk through Canada through this guide with our strong imaginations. So, are you ready? Let’s go!

Driving In Canada During Winter

Canada is a vast nation with a variety of stunning scenery . You can choose any season to explore Canada, e.g., Summers offer a wonderful opportunity to see the nation. Winter driving presents obstacles, but most of the landscape remains beautiful.

Many individuals choose winter to roam about in Canada, and others choose summer for any reason. If you plan to go to parks or go camping during winter, it wouldn’t be possible due to the harsh weather.

Check out some vital tips to drive in Canada during winter:

Driving Technique

Driving strategies in winter differ from those used in the summer. People living in cold regions also have to be careful during winter. You have to drive slowly in winter. As the roads are snowy, you have to grip the snow to head forward.

You must control the speed to get a grip and avoid accidents. When you stop at a red signal, it isn’t easy to resume driving because snow usually accumulates at the crossing. Remember that you may face a decrease in your vision as a fog blow may appear suddenly in front of your car.

Driving technique is the foremost important thing you must know. So, while you are going to stop your car, allow some extra space between your and the next car. You must take care of brakes when and how to apply them, depending on the situation. Whichever car you own or hire, you must be aware of its tiny details. 

Vehicle Readiness

Before leaving for a trip:

• Check your vehicle to be in a working position.
• Check the condition of the brakes .
• Ascertain that your car’s battery is charged and powerful enough to cope with the snowy roads.

Tires play an important role in driving across each type of road. If your tires are good, then your driving is good and smooth. During winter, the tires’ pressure drops. So, always fill up your tire before starting your journey.

You must save windshield washer fluid specifically for winter. During your trip, keep checking and the fuel tank full. You’ll have portions when the usage of wipers becomes practically constant due to the combination of snow, slippery roadways, and splashes from vehicles.

Block Heaters

A Block heater is inserted into the engine to keep the fluids hot . In Northern Canada and the prairies, block heaters are very common. While they are uncommon in other regions like Southern Ontario and British Columbia. 

Oil thickens when the temperature drops, so the vehicle will not get started. Block heaters work when the car remains close to -20 degrees Celsius for many days. This heater then heats the petrol sufficiently to start your car easily. But still, a winter journey without a heater is doable. 

Drive According To The Road Conditions

Canada screens your speed limit to adjust according to the road conditions. It is strictly followed during winter especially. The computerized screens instruct you about the road condition ahead. So it would be best if you control your car speed accordingly.

But you may also have control over your speed and take additional precautionary measures. In Canada, you may face ‘drive to conditions.’ If you are a beginner, the listed speed may still be fat for you on a slippery road. 

You must have an adequate distance between your and the next car to avoid a collision. Applying brakes on a snowy road is quite difficult as the car stops after some time and covers some distance. 

Turn on the lights if your vision gets affected by fog. Always check your headlights’ condition before heading. Busy roads might cause your lights to become filthy sooner.

Cruise control is not for winding and congested areas but for travel at constant places. It would be best if you did not use it for snowy or wet roads.

Shorter Days

Winter days are usually shorter everywhere, so as in Canada. Avoid driving during winter due to snowstorms, heavy snow, and black ice. Try driving when the sun starts rising and stop when it sets.

Each province of Canada differs in terms of time zone . So be careful about the timing of sunsets and sunrise while driving during winter.

Limited Roadside Facilities

Many roadside amenities are closed throughout the winter. Bathrooms, rest stations, and visiting places exemplify these amenities. Buildings and often gas stations remain closed during winter. So always check the gas of your vehicle before leaving.

Plan & Map Your Route & Destination

Many visiting sites in Canada offer limited time to visit. This is so because of winter owing to inclement weather, and most people don’t choose winter to explore Canada. Many parks also remain closed or restricted during winter.

Winter-related sites are also available in Canada that must be visited. In essence, hot springs are an excellent spot to come and stare at the beauty of nature.

Check Out 3 Tips For Safer Driving in Canadian Winters

Requires Thorough Preparation

Please prepare properly for your journey before departure. In addition to winter tires, you must have a printed road map so that when there is no mobile or network service, you may have an in-hand map.

Carry some important luggage with you to avoid any hurdles. To know about these things, keep scrolling and jot down some important points:

Must-Have Items in Your Winter Travel

Following are some compulsory items that must be included in your winter travel:

Car Winter Emergency Kit

Suppose the weather and road conditions becomes so extreme, then you must stop your car for a while. In this case, you must have an emergency kit containing blankets, warm caps, gloves, food, other clothes, water, and a first aid kit.

Winter Tires

Several roads require good winter tires during extreme weather conditions. In essence, the roads of British Columbia from October to March need these types of tires. You can also use these tires in northern Ontario from October to April .

Many roadways in British Columbia have warnings about the near one’s hills and mountains or the ways where the circumstances are about to change quickly. It’s all up to you whether you want to switch to winter tires. As they are not compulsory but some provinces still demand winter tires.

Common tires grow hard and rigid in cold temperatures and cannot hold the ground. Winter tires are recommended because they feature a larger grip and give drivers better control.

Meanwhile, it would be best if you changed these tires simultaneously during the weather transition. This is because the rubber of these tires may readily degrade on warmer roads during summer. Keep tire pressure at the proper level.

To keep the vital portions of your engine running, you need to plug in heaters with your car during cold temperatures. In Vancouver, the winters are not so extreme, so you can avoid using these heaters.

But if you are a citizen of an area where the least temperature is a common thing, then you must make use of automobile heaters a part of your routine . Less temperature causes the oil of automobiles to thicken. 

This thickened oil will face difficulty moving toward your car parts, so friction will be produced. Turn your block heaters on about two to three hours before driving to warm up your engine and car.

You can use automatic timers to set your block heaters on and off accordingly. Their costs range from $10-$20 .

Shovel & Tow Rope

Two pieces of equipment you mostly use for winter vehicle travels are a tow rope and shovel. You can choose Avalanche shovels as they are compact and easily carry them during snowshoeing. 

Jumper Cables

It would be best if you had jumper wires with you every time you go on a winter trip. Because winters are mostly harsh on automobile batteries. 

Windscreen Washer Fluid

Windshield water fluid is critical to maintaining a good view during snowy, icy, and muddy trips. These windshields must be winter-rated up to -40 degrees Celsius .

Insulated Flasks

Drinking water or water for your car may freeze in extreme cold. The remedy for this problem is to carry an insulated flask . As a result, there’ll be no difficulty in transporting water with you. If you are a tea or coffee lover, you may store it in the flask. 

A cooler is required to keep your food preserved and fresh. Mostly, dry fruits can easily be carried as they remain edible if frozen or defrosted multiple times. 

Unexpected Hazards

Flexibility and patience are excellent travelling buddies. They are quite necessary for a winter road adventure. Extremely bad weather, like storms , may be unsafe for driving. Following are some factors that you must consider when an unexpected hazard comes your way:

• Sometimes navigation becomes almost impossible when heavy snow hides road signs. Hence, printed maps are quite necessary.
• Highway 1 is the main roadway of Canada, and you still need help finding a mobile service here. So be prepared for this hazard, and you must have an alternative to it in an emergency.
• Heavy snow can cause snow to drift . Drive carefully in this case, as it might be difficult to drive during this condition.
• You will see a two-lane divided highway in Canada. But not all roads are separated. Hence, you may face difficulty on these roads as snowflakes created by automobiles might easily blind you here.

Is It Safe To Drive Across Canada In December?

Due to icy roads and poor visibility, driving across Canada in winter can be difficult. As winter gives cooler temperatures, icy roads, and snowflakes. But if you want a winter vacation, then December is your best month.

As the holidays start from mid of December, so you can enjoy your vacations safely. But remember to book your sites as you might have booking issues and your vacations will be spoiled. December weather is quite pleasant to visit Canada.

Is A Heavy Or Light Car Better In Snow?

During winter, the roads become snowy and slippery. So, a lighter car has more chance of getting a slip and causing damage to you and your car’s health. Moreover, the low surface levels of roads may damage the bottoms of your car.

In case of any damage, you may get caught and trapped during the snowy condition. Even if you keep the front and back tire pressure the same, the weight of heavy cars still straightens the contour of the front tires.

As a result, heavy cars feel more friction between tires and roads, causing difficulty driving the car on snowy roads. Hence, lighter cars are better in snow .

Are All Weather Tires Good For Canadian Winters?

All-weather tires may protect you from both mild and somewhat severe winter weather. These tires provide effective performance in summer, spring, autumn, and winter. All-weather tires are utilized the whole year, whereas winter tires need to be changed and stored.

Transport Canada has approved all-weather tires to be used in snowy winters in Canada. So, there is no danger in using them during winter. As all-weather tires can be used throughout the year, they have less life than winter tires. 

What Do You Do If Your Car Is Sliding On Ice?

Slow down your car if you feel like sliding on ice from your front tires . If you are still sliding, apply the brakes gently and slowly. If you feel sliding from the back tires , remove your foot off the pedal and carefully spin your tire along the direction of the slide.

Moreover, avoid oversteering, as it can cause a complete spin of your vehicle. The effect of a strong and abrupt tire response to spin is known as oversteer . Don’t ever stress out whenever you face this situation. Maintain your composure in this case.

In Canada, a few significant snowstorms occur every winter. Additionally, trying to travel during a stormy night may be incredibly irritating. You may become frustrated while stuck in traffic and waiting for a long time.

You’ll surely find Canada a winter wonderland! Let us know if these tips helped you in your trip to Canada . For further guidance, please explore OnTheMoveCanada . Take care!

Updated on 01-14-23

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

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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10 Scenic Road Trips To Take Through Canada This Winter

See Canada in a new light by experiencing winter in the Great White North. These road trip routes offer scenic views during the snowy season.

Winter is one of the most beautiful seasons to take a road trip in Canada. In most parts of the country, this is the season when the trees are covered in a charming layer of snow and, in the west, the mountains are capped in snow as well. It’s truly a winter wonderland with many incredible photo opportunities and scenic landscapes.

Make the most of this season and embark on one of these exciting road trips across the Great White North (be sure to have snow tires!).

10 Calgary To Banff, Alberta

Driving from Calgary to Banff in Alberta can be a quick journey, but it’s worth turning this into a multi-day road trip to the Canadian Rockies. For travelers arriving in Calgary, it’s ideal to rent a car and drive to Canmore, Alberta, which takes approximately 1 hour.

Spend the night in Canmore, admiring the town, and then go hiking in Kananaskis Country the next day. The following morning, depart for the town of Banff and spend a couple of days hiking and exploring in Banff National Park .

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Distance : 127.4 km

9 Banff To Jasper Via Icefields Parkway, Alberta

The Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the whole country with lots to see and explore along the way.

Make the drive from Banff National Park to Jasper National Park over the course of a single day with stops at Athabasca Glacier, Cirrus Mountain Viewpoint, and the Columbia Icefield along the way.

• Duration: 3.5 hours
• Distance: 295 km

8 Toronto To North Bay, Ontario

During December and January, when the snow is at its peak, the drive up Highway 11 to North Bay from Toronto is incredibly scenic. Snowbanks up to 3 or 4 feet high can be seen on the side of the roads in many places and the trees are covered in a magical canopy of snow.

Stops along the way include the charming town of Bracebridge, Huntsville, and even Algonquin Provincial Park . Snowshoeing and winter hiking are allowed at Old Railway Trail which is accessed near Mew Lake Campground.

• Distance: 360 km

7 Vancouver To Whistler Via Sea To Sky Highway, BC

As with many road trips on the list, this drive can be quick, but it's best to draw it out over a couple of days to stop at various destinations along the way and appreciate the beautiful scenery.

Take the Sea To Sky Highway (one of the best drives in the world) from Vancouver to Squamish along the coast.

Then, spend a night in Squamish and ride the Sea to Sky Gondola or go hiking at Joffre Lakes before continuing to Whistler the following morning.

• Distance: 121 km

6 The Ice Roads, Northwest Territories

During the winter months, the hamlets of Aklavik and Inuvik in Canada’s Northwest Territories are linked by the Ice Road, a series of winter highways.

The ice highways that connect these remote communities in the winter exist from January to April and receive limited traffic. Some roads only get up to 50 cars each day, making this a real off-the-beaten-path journey.

• Duration: Dependent on road and weather conditions
• Distance: 117 km

5 Toronto To Collingwood, Ontario

A quintessential Canadian winter experience is relaxing at a ski resort and hitting the slopes. Make the drive from Toronto Collingwood for a weekend getaway at Blue Mountain Ski Resort for the ultimate Canadian winter road trip.

This is a gorgeous part of the province and offers plenty for couples and families to do, from outdoor winter sports to fine dining.

• Duration: ~2 hours
• Distance: 146 km

Related: These Are Canada’s 10 Most Affordable Winter Destinations

4 Quebec City To Montreal Via The King’s Road, Quebec

The Chemin du Roy, or The King’s Road, runs from Montreal to Quebec City and provides a scenic winter route for traveling between these two iconic Canadian cities. History buffs will appreciate the beautiful buildings along the route while photographers will enjoy the landscapes.

Travelers taking this route can plan rest stops in smaller towns like Repentigny and Trois-Rivières before arriving at their final destination.

• Duration: ~3 hours
• Distance: 280 km

3 Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia

Travelers should plan 5-7 days for driving the Cabot Trail , especially during the winter months. This stunning drive around Nova Scotia is a loop that passes through the Cape Breton Highlands National Park at the northernmost point of the park.

Travelers can start in Baddeck and end in Cheticamp, or reverse the route.

• Duration: 5-7 days
• Distance: 298 km

2 Toronto To Ottawa, Ontario

Travelers arriving in Ontario, Canada will likely fly into Toronto Pearson (YYZ) and start their exploration of the province from there. The city of Ottawa is only 4.5 hours away and makes for a wonderful winter road trip from Toronto.

Upon arrival, travelers can cross a big item off the Canadian Winter Bucket List: Skating on the Rideau Canal .

• Duration: 4.5 hours
• Distance: 450 km

Related: Here's Why Winnipeg Should Be On Your Winter Radar This Season

1 Irish Loop, Newfoundland And Labrador

This iconic route in the far east of the country can be driven in a single day and starts with a walk past beautiful colorful homes in the capital, St. Johns.

The loop along the coast is full of opportunities to spot wildlife, such as whales, and offers scenic pit stops like a historic lighthouse from 1870 in Ferryland Head .

• Duration: 3-4 hours
• Distance: 309 km

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Travel across Canada

Travel across Canada; many Canadians add it to their bucket list.  A -once in a lifetime- cross Canada road trip; from the Wild Pacific to the North Atlantic Ocean, or vice versa.

It takes quite some effort to optimize your travel plans. This page is for those who do not have the time and energy to create a cross Canada road trip itinerary themselves.

The most scenic road trip across Canada

Road book to travel across Canada

Road book reviews

Cross Canada road trip movie

The designed route is -in my opinion-, the most scenic and interesting route to cross Canada by car.

If I would be in the position to join you on your trip, I would guide you exactly the same way as presented in this road trip itinerary. 

I created this specific cross Canada itinerary to refine my own cross Canada road trip (2012), and in order to pass my expertise as a driver/guide for travel tours in Canada. Read more about my travel expertise .

The best of Canada

The selected route uncovers the best of Canada such as

• rumbling waterfalls,
• the majestic Rocky Mountains including world famous Lake Louise and Moraine Lake ,
• Alberta’s badlands,
• Saskatchewan’s prairies and endless skies,
• friendly Manitoba,
• First Nations culture,
• Ontario’s Great Lakes including roaring Niagara Falls ,
• the Rideau heritage route and historical Kings Road, 
• Capital city Ottawa, and
• charming Quebec City
• world’s highest tidal fluctuations at the Bay of Fundy and much more...

Use the itinerary as a guideline for your road trip across Canada.

Interactive E-Road book to Travel across Canada

The interactive   E-R oad Book to Travel across Canada  is a PDF file containing 27 travel days. Your trip starts in Vancouver, British Columbia and ends in Halifax, Nova Scotia. 

You can easily add extra destinations and days to extend your journey.  This drive across Canada covers 7250 km/4500 mi.

Included in the ‘Road Book to Travel across Canada’

The E-road book PDF includes:

• 27 day itineraries, each day itinerary offers - a selection of sights of interest - one or more interactive maps - driving directions
• web links to - related Provincial Parks & Parks Canada brochures or maps (inserted in the online map) - tourism websites for local destinations
• an accommodation schedule for planning your stays 
• 59 maps including links to their online version
• relevant additional information such as - Canadian federal taxes explained as well as taxes per province - instructions how to use the road trip maps - time zones

About the sights included in the road book

It is not my intention to include every single activity or sight along the route. Presented sights and activities are carefully selected, based upon quality and feasibility within the day schedule. 

Within your road trip across Canada  there are opportunities to

go out on a hike – paddle – enjoy boat trips –view magnificent wildlife  – ride a gondola - visit  National Historic Sites, World Heritage Sites – explore Vancouver, Ottawa and Quebec City –immerse in hot springs – experience the history of fur trade – study petroforms – absorb native culture – witness world’s biggest tidal fluctuations

Cellphone reach and internet along the proposed travel route

In general, a majority of accommodations offer WIFI. Cell phone coverage is poor while travelling across Canada.  I recommend bringing your mobile device (tablet) while travelling. Internet connection makes it possible to use the interactive maps on your mobile device. The latter allows you to open added links and interactive maps. 

Purchase the E-book to  Travel Across Canada

Road Book Reviews

Road book to travel across canada reviews.

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In October 2012, my husband and I drove from our hometown Clearwater, British Columbia to Halifax, Nova Scotia.

My friend Ken Matheson/KM Documentaries, helped me creating this short impression of our cross Canada road trip.

Note: The road book route deviates at several stretches from the road trip in the movie.

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Travel British Columbia Canada

Itineraries for self-drive travel British Columbia Canada

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Last modified: Jan 3, 2024

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21 Best Places to Visit in Canada in Winter

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Looking for the best places to visit in Canada in winter? We got you covered. From snow capped mountain getaways, world class ski resorts to Christmas markets and Ice & Lights events, a winter break in Canada is a must add to your travel bucket list. 

In this post, we will share some of the top picks for winter destinations in Canada, sorted by provinces in alphabetical order! Happy Reading.

21 Best places to visit in Canada in winter

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

In a hurry? Here is a quick list of amazing winter destinations in Canada for a getaway (from mountains, and cities to snowy activities)

• Banff National Park, AB
• Calgary, AB
• Edmonton, AB
• Jasper National Park. AB
• Lake Louise, AB
• Vancouver, BC
• Squamish, BC
• Victoria, BC
• Whistler, BC
• Churchill, MN
• Halifax, NS
• Great Lakes, ON
• Niagara Falls, ON
• Blue Mountain, ON
• Parc de la Gatineau, ON
• Charlottetown, PEI
• Montreal, QC
• Mont Tremblant, QC
• Trois-Rivières, QC

The winter months in Canada are from December to February. January is the coldest month, and this is the best time for winter sports-related activities. Festive events are held from mid-December to early January.

Many ice festivals take place from January to the first weeks of February. Ice fishing season starts in February.

Depending on your travel destination, you may experience winter/snowy landscapes during the months of March and April as well. In places like Lake Louise and Whistler, spring skiing is also possible.

What to wear in Canada in winter clothing for Canada

There are some winter essentials to pack for Canada.  

• Winter Parka : Pack and carry a warm parka jacket to enjoy the winters outside in Canada. Here is my favorite jacket from The North Face. It has a good length and is super warm. Click to view this winter jacket.
• Base Layers: Highly recommend that you layer on it! Wear long johns or base layers (top and bottom), to stay warm and toasty. Click to view my favorite pair bottom here , and top here
• Winter Boots: These are an absolute must! Wear warm boots that come with a good grip. Buy my favorite pair here
• Add cleats for when you go exploring snow-covered canyons, or waterfalls. Click to buy here
• Warm Beanie : Wear something in bright colors for a contrasting look to the white background. I am loving these from Amazon
• Also pack: Warm socks , warm gloves , pretty scarf

1. Banff National Park

Banff National Park is one of the best places to visit in Canada in winter. Enjoy the stunning Canadian Rockies, sprinkled with snow dust and a beautiful winter wonderland.

One of the amazing things to do in the winter in Banff is to head to the Sulphur Sightseeing Gondola and soak in views of the mountains.  On certain nights, Banff Gondola also organizes a stargazing event, along with Christmas celebrations.  

There are tons of seasonal activities held here in the winter, from Christmas on Mountain Top to the Santa Claus parade and other leisurely activities.

For those looking for winter sports, Banff welcomes you with natural and man-made ice rinks, cross country skiing, and snowboarding, all with amazing mountain backdrops.

Mount Norquay and Banff Sunshine Village are great options for skiing in the mountains. 

Winter is also amazing for Banff hiking and ice walks. Although not all trails will be open (like it’s open in the summer months), winter hiking on selected trails is possible. Always ensure you are taking a guide on winter hikes if this is your first time. 

Romantic winter activities from fairytale castle staycations, horse sleigh rides to fancy dining, Banff has it all for a winter holiday! Be sure to wear warm clothes, as it can be pretty windy in Banff on the mountaintop.

• Tours : Ice climbing activities at the Johnston Canyon
• Accommodation in Banff : Fairmont Banff Springs (5-star hotel) | Elk and Avenue Banff (3+ star)

2. Calgary  

One of the prettiest cities in Canada to visit in winter is Calgary. Calgary is usually the first stop for those travelers heading to Banff from overseas or out of province. 

The majority of the city attractions are open in the winter in Calgary . Ensure you visit the Calgary Tower observation platform to soak in the views of the snow-covered cityscape.

Tons of festive concerts, markets, and restaurants menu pop up to keep you delighted throughout the stay.

During this time, you must visit museums like the Glenbow Art Museum, and Fort Calgary Park to name a few. This is also a good time to shop at various retail locations in Calgary, which are normally filled with Holiday decorations and sales. 

Find how to spend a day in Calgary here

If you are into outdoor activities, include a trip to the Olympics Park and enjoy winter activities at the world-class facility. Another option is the Fish Creek Provincial Park. You can go cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing here. 

• Accommodation : Stay in downtown Calgary, our favorites: Fairmont Palliser | Le Germain Calgary

3. Edmonton 

Edmonton is the capital city of Alberta, and it has been our home for the past 7+ years. In the winter Edmonton beams with amazing activities from Xmas markets to ice castles and light festivals!

Our absolute favorite is the Ice Castles festival which takes place from late December to early February (ice castles are canceled for 2020, likely to return in 2023/4). 

You can also venture into nearby places like Saint Albert, Devon, and Sherwood Park for more winter fests!

The city is filled with other festivals too like the amazing Luminaria Lights festival, where the Botanical Gardens are decorated with festive lights for two days.

Not too far from Edmonton is the Elk Island National Park, where you can chase the Northern Lights in the winter, or go snowshoeing.

We love to take a walk at the Legislature Grounds in the winter, as it lights up for Christmas festivities. Shopping is huge in Edmonton too. Here you can shop at the largest indoor shopping mall in the country – West Edmonton Mall.

The Riverside Bistro ( Courtyard by Marriott in Downtown Edmonton) sets up winter igloos for you to dine in. We had a great time, cozying with our loved ones in an igloo, overlooking the river valley.

• Where to stay in Edmonton : Hilton Garden Inn West Edmonton | The Fairmont Hotel Macdonald

4. Jasper National Park

Jasper is a winter wonderland! Being the largest park in the Canadian Rockies, there is no dearth of things to do in Jasper National Park. 

When you visit Jasper in the winter , you’ll find yourself immersed in a wonderland of outdoor activities. Skiing snowboarding, snowshoeing, and skating are just a few of the exhilarating options available to you. Ice fishing is also possible in Jasper. 

Marmot Ski Resort is where you can enjoy the lovely powder (till early spring months). 

The park also offers a variety of winter activities, such as dog sledding, ice climbing, and snowshoeing. You can go ice climbing at the Maligne Canyon, or snowshoe by Sunwapta Falls. These falls look heavenly in the winter!

The Pyramid Lake area is perfect for easy-to-moderate winter hikes and walks. You can also stay in the resort and admire the winter landscape from the comfort of your suite!

Speaking of comfort and luxurious interiors, Fairmont Jasper Lodge is an amazing spot to book a winter staycation. They have special festive getaways in the month of December that you can enjoy with your friends and family.

There is a spa on-site, restaurants as well as a frozen pond!

Jasper Town is also very adorable. You will find everything from fast food joints, to breweries and shopping on the main street!

But that’s not all! Jasper National Park is also renowned for its abundant wildlife sightings during the winter months. As you explore the park, keep your eyes peeled for the magnificent bighorn sheep, graceful elk, and majestic moose. These encounters with nature will add an extra layer of excitement to your visit.

With its breathtaking icefalls, frozen lakes, and stunning mountain views, it’s no surprise that Jasper ranks high on any traveler’s bucket list.

• Tours : Icewalk at Maligne Canyon
• Hotels : Pyramid Lake Resort | Fairmont Jasper Lodge
• Resources : Where to stay in Jasper National Park

5. Lake Louise

Located inside the Banff National Park are the turquoise blue waters of Lake Lousie. During winter , the frozen lake is like a little town in itself. You can ice skate in the natural rink, against the mountain backdrop. 

Located close by is the famous Chateau Lake Louise hotel – stay here for stunning winter views from your suite. There are ice skating rentals and an indoor rink at the chateau.

Or stay warm and cozy by booking an afternoon tea seating!

You can also hop on a shuttle to head to the Lake Louise Ski Resort from here! Book a skiing lesson in Lake Louise

In January, Lake Lousie hosts the ice sculpture festival. Called the Ice Magic Festival, it delights visitors every year. This event is free to enter and enjoy. 

If you are planning to embark on a road trip to enjoy the Canadian Rockies , including Lake Lousie, ensure you check the weather forecasts/road conditions before travel. Always add car insurance for the duration of your trip.

• Day tour to Lake Louise from Banff : Book a day tour to Lake Louise from Banff
• Stay at: Lake Louise Inn | Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

BRITISH COLUMBIA

6. vancouver .

Vancouver is one of the best places to visit in Canada in winter for those who love ‘not a lot of snow’. Considered one of the warmer places for Christmas breaks, Vancouver glows with festive colors and lights all winter long.

There are many Christmas lights events held across the city, and our absolute favorite is the lights at the Capilano Suspension Bridge Park . The park looks like pretty postcard-like lights shining in the middle of the woods. 

Enjoy ice skating at the Robson Square Ice Rink . This is seasonally operated and open for visitors. Or head to the St. Paul’s Foundation’s Lights of Hope, where you can soak in the festive glow with over 100,000 bright lights, and shining stars.

As the weather is not very cold, you can wander Downtown Vancouver with hot chocolate in your hand, while you enjoy the urban jungle, 5-star hotels, waterfront areas, and art museums. Highly recommend adding a food tour in Gastown.

You can also enjoy a day full of skiing activities by taking a day trip to the Grouse Mountains. It hosts the 24 Hours of Winter event, where the slopes are open from sunrise to sunset.

Read: Our complete guide to things to do in Vancouver in winter

• Hotels in Vancouver: Stay in the downtown area at the Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel (5-star) | Apartments in Downtown Vancouver

7. Squamish 

By Eden from Rock a Little Travel

One of the most beautiful places to visit in Canada in Winter is Squamish, British Columbia. The town of Squamish is located along the Sea to Sky Highway about halfway between Vancouver and Whistler. 

It is situated next to the mountains, the Squamish River, and Howe Sound, creating an abundance of outdoor adventure opportunities for winter visitors. 

One of the most popular things to do in Squamish in winter is to visit the Sea to Sky Gondola.

Once at the top, you’ll be greeted with stunning views of Howe Sound and the snow-capped mountains off in the distance. The surrounding trails are perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. 

Squamish is also a popular winter destination for backcountry skiing, sledding, zip lining, rock climbing, and snowmobiling. 

For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, Squamish is known as a prime area for Bald Eagle viewing. The Bald Eagles return to the area each November and can often be seen flying around near the Squamish River. 

Head to Brackendale Eagles Provincial Park for your best chance at spotting the Bald Eagles. 

If you’re looking for a hotel in the area, we recommend the Howe Sound Inn located in downtown Squamish. The hotel is located just upstairs from Howe Sound Brewing, which has a fantastic restaurant and makes an excellent place to end your day. 

• Accommodation in Squamish : Howe Sound Inn

8. Victoria

By Marcie from Marcie in Mommyland

Located on Vancouver Island, Victoria is one of the cutest little winter wonderland towns, especially during the holidays. The European-inspired city is all dressed up with Christmas lights and decorations. 

While many people flock to The Butchart Gardens during the warmer months, they are pretty awesome during the winter. They host a Magic of Christmas event with more lights than you can ever imagine plus an outdoor skating rink. 

Around town, you can take the Hop On Hop Off tour or hitch a ride in a horse drawn carriage for a romantic ride through the festive streets.

The Royal BC Museum is a great place to explore on cold days and Father Christmas himself even makes appearances. They also have an impressive lineup of IMAX films running all day long. 

When it’s time to warm up, head to Floyd’s diner for some amazing hot chocolate and tasty diner food. Or head up to the Dutch Bakery to fill your tummy with delectable treats, including traditional gingerbread cookies! 

Of course, there’s no better place to stay at Christmas in Victoria BC than the iconic Fairmont Empress hotel. They have one of the most gorgeous lobbies decorated for Christmas and they host some amazing high tea events. Victoria makes an awesome winter weekend getaway in British Columbia!

Read : One day in Victoria BC itinerary | Afternoon tea in Victoria

• Tours : Butchart Gardens and Christmas tour
• Hotels : Fairmont Empress hotel

9. Whistler  

By Rachel from A City Girl Outside

Whistler is the skiing capital of North America and one of the most perfect places to visit during the winter season. But there is far more to this skiing resort town.

Snowmobiling has been one of the most exhilarating activities that you must do, outside of the Whistler Blackcomb resort, and something you definitely need to try once in your life! 

Snowmobiling tours are offered through Canadian Wilderness Adventures, and they offer tours for different skill levels, including families! You can choose to share a snowmobile with a friend and take turns or for an extra fee, have individual snowmobiles.

The guides at Canadian Wilderness are fantastic and will have you trying new things in no time. You don’t need to worry about having the right attire, Canadian Wilderness supply helmets, and boots for the ride!

Tours can be booked online through the Canadian Wilderness website or you can visit their kiosk downstairs in the Carlton Lodge.

For exceptional rooms and service during your stay in Whistler, the Fairmont Chateau is one of Whistler’s most prestigious hotels and one of the resort’s only ski-in-ski-out hotels.

With stunning views of Blackcomb Mountain, a spa, and several dining options, the Fairmont has everything you’d need to complete your winter trip to Whistler .  Book your stay here!

• Tours : Whistler Spectacular Glacier Tour by Seaplane
• Hotels in Whistler: Fairmont Chateau Whistler | Delta Whistler Village Suites

10. Churchill 

Churchill is a small town located in the province of Manitoba. It is widely known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World”. Yes, this is where cute polar bears await you for winter fun. 

Churchill is located on the shores of Hudson Bay and is home to polar bears, beluga whales, and a variety of birds. It is like a winter wonderland like no other.

In the lap of nature, and far north, Churchill is one of those places in Canada where you can witness wilderness and beat winter blues by chasing green dancing lights aka Aurora Borealis. 

Plan a trip to Churchill for an amazing winter break for wildlife and nature lovers. To get to Churchill, you can fly to Winnipeg, and then travel there. Another option is to take the Winnipeg–Churchill semi-weekly train. 

NOVA SCOTIA

11. halifax.

Winters in Halifax are long. But it is a good thing as due to snow and ice you can indulge in winter activities. 

Tobogganing on Citadel Hill is very popular, and so is ice skating at the Emera Oval. Winter activities range from skiing, winter hiking, sledding, and ice tubing in various parks across the city.  And attending all the lights festivals is a must. 

The Atlantic Fashion Week Pop-Up Christmas Market pulls tourists for festive souvenirs and culinary delight. You can also visit the Halifax Seaport Farmers Market for local produce and baked goods.

If you prefer indoor festivities, head to the Student Art Gallery, and the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame for seasonal events, while you stay warm and toasty inside.

Another option is to head to Sugar Moon Farm to enjoy our maple syrup and a comfortable winter meal. 

Winter in Halifax lasts till February, and if you are visiting during this time, don’t forget to attend the Festival of Whisky. 

• Hotels: The Inn at Fisherman’s Cove | Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel

12. Great Lakes

By Slavka from On2Continents.com

Canada is charming in winter. No wonder it’s called the True North. Frozen Great Lakes add to the country’s winter charm.

If you get a chance to get to one of the large lakes in winter, you’ll be surprised by how different they look. Summer lake beaches are fun, but the frozen beauty of glittering snow and ice on the lake on a sunny day is unforgettable.

The best places for trips to frozen lakes are small towns along the shore such as Port Stanley on Lake Erie or Grand Bend on Lake Huron. Lakes are frozen solid many metres from the beach, and you’ll see people walking toward the open space.

The weather conditions for walking on frozen lakes are best in February and early March after several weeks of frost or cold snaps.

Before you set out, make sure you choose a sunny day with no wind. Wind can ruin your day more than the grey sky. Also, be sure to wear layers of winter clothing, a warm hat, mittens, good boots, and sunglasses.

And don’t forget your camera because you sure will want to snap the winter fairy tale landscape.

After a nice fresh walk on the magical glistening landscape, it’s a good idea to warm up in a cozy coffee shop. A cup of hot chocolate will be a perfect touch for a nice winter lake trip. 

Read: More places to visit in Ontario in winter

13. Niagara Falls

If you have visited Niagara Falls in the summer, you must re-visit in the winter to see how stunning the falls look in a Narnia-like scenario. Although many of the attractions like the boat tours are closed, the falls and observation platform for viewing are open. 

Take a walk along the pathway by the side of the falls and enjoy the mighty falls glittering in white snow. It is common to see ice formations in and around the falls and the cliffs. 

Close to Christmas and New Year, you can expect fireworks and festive lights over the Falls. The Skylon Tower on the Canadian side of Niagara Falls is open during winter and you can book a ticket to soak in the white-washed falls. 

For most of the winter, Niagara Falls is not super crowded, but on Christmas Eve or New Years’ Eve finding affordable hotels might be a challenge , so reserve your stay early. 

Every January, Niagara hosts the Ice Wine Festival, which is a wine-tasting event.

• Tours : Niagara Falls Day Tour with Niagara-on-the-Lake
• Hotels: Niagara Falls Marriott on the Falls

14. Toronto  

Toronto is one of the best places to visit in Canada in winter. Toronto gets a lot of snow, and the entire city is lit with festive lights and decorations. And truly the city is never dull at any time of the year.

Festive activities begin at the historic Distillery District. This is where the Christmas Market is set up. Wander through the markets and sip in hot cocoa while you shop for souvenirs and Christmas ornaments. 

Toronto Light Festival is a must-visit, here the annual lights fest will leave you spellbound and in the festive spirit.  Guide to exploring Toronto in a day

For winter sports, enjoy skating and live music at the epic Nathan Phillips Square . This is where the City Hall is located too. 

The waterfront is one of our favorite spots in the city, whether summer or winter. There are festive decorations and stalls at the waterfront. At the Harbourfront Centre, you can also enjoy skating on a natural ice rink, whilst soaking in the city views.

For those looking for an indoor winter experience, ensure you visit museums and theatre halls for concerts and the Christmas choir. Casa Loma is an amazing place to visit this time – stay inside, take a tour of the castle, and take photos with Santa Claus.

Another item to add is the CN Tower, which is open in the winter for festive dinners (at the revolving restaurant) and the viewing platform to admire the waterfront and Downtown Toronto from up above. 

• Tours : Best of Toronto City Tour | Food walking tour
• Hotels : Book hotels in Toronto here!

15. Blue Mountain Resort

By Manpreet from YourVeganAdventure.com

The Blue Mountain Resort is located within driving distance from Toronto and although it is an amazing place to visit all year round, winter is when it becomes magical.

Once the winter season starts, the ski lifts begin operating and work all day taking guests up to the top of the slopes. However, there is more to Blue Mountain than just skiing in the winter. The wood view mountain top becomes home to an 1100m ice rink loop, with stunning views over the Niagara Escarpment. 

Ice skates can be rented for $6, and you are allowed to take your own to be more comfortable. The other popular activity is hiking through the many trails with snowshoes.

Again with views of the Escarpment, the resort provides free hiking tours on this quiet tranquil route through nature and sees a completely different side of Blue Mountain. 

Oh, and if you feel tired at the top, you can get a tube to slide your way back to the ground!

Blue Mountain truly is a resort, with plenty of eateries and hotels on site. You can spend a few nights there without having to drive anywhere outside of the area. 

The hotels on-site are the Village Suites, the Resort Inn , and the 5* luxury Westin Hotel . No matter what your budget is, there is something for you.

Traveling by road is highly recommended and there is plenty of free parking at all the accommodations so there is no stress on that front. The restaurants within the resort cater to all taste buds, ranging from a coffee shop bakery to a dine-in Japanese experience. 

• Where to stay : Village Suites | The Resort Inn | Westin Hotel

16 . Ottawa  

Ottawa is Canada’s capital city, and it is one of the must visit places in the winter. Do visit the Parliament building and admire all the festive lights lit for Christmas and New Year. 

Ottawa is home to the world’s longest natural ice rink aka the Rideau Canal – UNESCO World Heritage Site. The frozen Rideau Canal Skateway awaits you, so get ready to enjoy a fun filled day with friends and family. This is one of the most popular attractions in the winter in Ottawa. 

As with most Canadian cities, festive lights are common and Ottawa is no different. All of Ottawa is decorated with thousands of lights.

• Tours : Hop-On Hop-Off Guided City Tour Day Ticket
• Hotels : Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre

17. Parc de la Gatineau

By Chris from Punta Cana Travel Blog

Even though Canada is one of the most amazing countries in the world for downhill skiing, there are also other activities to do in winter, such as hiking or snowshoeing. 

A place easily accessible from one of the main cities in Canada is Parc de la Gatineau very close to Ottawa. It’s less than a 30-minute drive from Ottawa downtown and it’s impressive how quickly you can enter a snowy winter wonderland with nothing more than just 100% nature around you. 

The three main lakes of the park, Lac Meech,  Lac Phillipe , and Lac Mousseau, are adding their share to this beautiful and idyllic scenery.

The main winter activities at Parc de la Gatineau with more than 150km of trails are hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. All trails are divided into separate categories (easy, medium, and difficult) and are marked on a big comprehensive map which makes it easy to get around in the park. 

The idyllic setting and the gorgeous views of the lakes and the Ottawa Valley are making any activity here very pleasant on a sunny winter day. One of the possible trails with some steep inclines and three viewpoints on the way is the Wolf Trail, which we did last winter.

When visiting Parc de la Gatineau, we recommend staying right in Ottawa as is it so close, which means you can enjoy the advantages and attractions of Canada’s capital as well.

If you would like to splurge a bit, Andaz Ottawa Byward Market is a great pick and if you are looking for a more affordable downtown option, The Carleton Suite Hotel is your place to go.

• Hotel: The Carleton Suite Hotel | Andaz Ottawa Byward Market

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND

18. charlottetown.

The capital city of PEI/Prince Edward Island – Charlottetown is one of the unique places to visit in Canada in the winter. This winter getaway is perfect for both indoor and outdoor activities from fine dining, skating, and cross skiing to children’s festivals.

The small city has the perfect combination of indoor and outdoor activities to enjoy.

Firstly, warm up with a hot drink from one of the city’s cafes in the downtown area. Then head outdoors and skate at the Founder’s Hall Rink is one of the popular places to hang out in Charlottetown.

Another option to enjoy winter fun is at Victoria Park. Activities include cross-country skiing, outdoor winter yoga, and snowshoeing. 

Winter festivals in Charlottetown include something for everybody from the young and the old. Jack Frost Children’s Winterfest for young adults, Winterdine for foodie lovers, and Festival of Lights – for everybody.  

• Tours: Day tour to Green Gables
• Hotels: Delta Hotels by Marriott Prince Edward | The Arts Hotel

QUEBEC 

19. montreal .

The stunning city of Montreal is even more amazing in the winter. From staying at an Ice hotel, and listening to Christmas carols at Notre Dame to enjoying underground shopping, Montreal welcomes you to a fun-filled winter getaway. 

Ice Hotel in Montreal is a special hotel, which gets built each year (depending on winter conditions). It is open from January to late March/early April. Visitors can wander through the hotel, enjoy a drink or two at the Ice Bar, and can also book a room to stay for the night. 

For those visiting on Christmas Eve, visit the Notre Dame Basilica in Old Montreal and chime in the carols. Old Montreal, especially the port area is filled with festivities and markets to warm your heart.

Marché de Noël is a popular event in Montreal, where you can shop for traditional foods, handcrafted items – ornaments and souvenirs, etc. 

Montréal’s Christmas Village is held every year in the winter, starting in late November to early January. This winter/Christmas village is home to 50 cottages filled with bakeries, cafes, and stores selling souvenirs, and local produce. Santa Claus is also present to welcome the kids. 

If you prefer a German Christmas Market, head to the Weinachtsmarkt. This market ambiance will teleport you to Europe. Shop handmade Christmas goodies, eat sausages, sauerkraut, and sip mulled wine, while you wander the market. 

• Tours : Christmas Brunch Cruise | Small Group Night Sightseeing Tour
• Hotels : Hotel 10 | Fairmont The Queen Elizabeth

20. Mont Tremblant

By Danni from Danni In The Desert

This beautiful little village is located in Quebec, Mont Tremblant was built especially for tourists who want a European resort-style ski experience with hotels, shops, restaurants, and more! 

They offer a range of slopes from beginning to advanced along with ski instructors for those who are novices or wish to improve their technique. Don’t have any ski gear? Not to worry! Everything can be hired from their ski shop!

Once you’ve finished skiing, you’ve got lots of ways to unwind with a wide range of restaurants and hotels serving an array of food and beverages. 

One of the best spots for food and drink is close to the village resort called Hotel Quintessence . Their fine dining bistro has stunning views over Lake Tremblant or lounge in their pretty cool cellar style bar.

If you’re not wanting to go too far from the action of the slopes, within the village there is everything from pizza to poutine!

Similar to the restaurants, there is a wide range of hotels available close by. Everything from hostels to 5-star boutique hotels. Despite being a skiing resort, one of the best parts of it is possible to experience skiing whatever your budget!

Another must is to check out the spas! Depending on your budget, the more budget-friendly option is the Aqua club in the middle of Tremblant Village. You can enjoy sitting in a outdoor warm jacuzzi with skiers whizzing by.

If you’re wanting the full luxury option, there are several spas in the surrounding areas offering various packages for a fully relaxing experience.

• Accommodation at : Hotel Quintessence , or Homewood Suites Hotel

21. Trois-Rivières (Ice Trails & Winter Hiking)

By Brianna of Curious Travel Bug

Quebec is the perfect place to visit if you are looking for a winter destination in Canada. While Quebec is known for its skiing, it’s also a fantastic destination for ice skating trails and winter hiking.

Domaine Enchanteur is a skating trail that winds its way through a forest only 20 minutes away from Trois-Rivières. With 15 km (9.3 miles) of trails to explore, it’s easy to spend a couple of hours here. This is not your typical ice rink experience.

Trails here take you to secluded parts of the forest and by different animals on the farm like alpacas and emus. Along the trails, there are also warming rooms and places to buy hot chocolate.

After skating, take a scenic drive toward La Mauricie National Park. The drive here feels more like you are driving through snowy European towns with cute villages that dot the sides of the Saint Maurice River. 

At La Mauricie, there are several options for exploring the park during winter. The service centre at Rivière à la Pêche offers up equipment rentals of snowshoes, cross-country skis, and crampons for hiking.

Hiking through the forest here is a magical experience. With deep snow drifts, and views from up on cliffs to the river below, this is the perfect winter activity.

This trip can be done as a day trip from Montreal , Quebec City, or Trois-Rivières. To immerse yourself in this winter wonderland you can rent a cabin at La Mauricie National Park. If you want a bit more luxury than that, check out Hotel Oui Go in Trois-Rivières.

• Hotel : Hotel Oui Go in Trois-Rivières

Final Thoughts on Canada Winter Destinations & Travel Inspiration

Canada is a great destination to spend your winter holidays. Yes, it is cold, but it is also the perfect place to enjoy this season – bring out your winter jackets, lace-up warm boots, put on a pretty beanie/torque, and welcome the snow with wide open arms!

We hope you enjoy spending winters here, as much as we do!

Other Canada Travel Tips

• Canada Road Trips
• Hotels with Best Views of Niagara Falls Canada
• 3 Days in Vancouver Itinerary

Pin: Winter Destinations in Canada for your bucket list

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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23 Comments

I’m usually against traveling in the cold, but omg, these photos make it look worth hit! It really looks and sounds incredible. Pinning for later!

It’s so hard finding things to do in the winter; this is a great list of fun things to get out of the house and explore!

I can’t decide which to do first! Great article that will help me and my family plan our next trip.

I would love to visit Banff National Park in winter. It looks so beautiful, just like a fairy tale. I have actually been to Toronto in December in a layover, and I’ve seen it cover in snow. So pretty!

Lots of great places you’ve listed, sadly I’ve only been to the ones in Ontario!

I’ve only ever visited Canada in the winter time and I’ve loved every single visit! I think there’s something magical about the snow and the beautiful scenery. Thanks for this list, there are still quite a few places I haven’t visited.

I’m in Vancouver and can vouch for all the BC places on this list. It’s a great place for winter, and not too cold. I’d love to visit Churchill though and see the Polar Bears and I do really like the Rockies. Great list

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it 🙂

Omg it looks so cold! My family used to go to Niagara Falls every year around Christmas — it was a really great time to see the falls with fewer tourists!

Winter is a great time to visit Niagara Falls!

Love all these winter Canadian ideas! Sadly I’m Canadian and haven’t done any of them. I need to get on it soon!

Oh! you must visit, they are beautiful!

I want to go to Banff so bad!! I also love Toronto in the winter. I would enjoy seeing Montreal in the wintertime when there are Christmas markets.

You will LOVE Banff, we visit every winter 🙂

These are all amazing ideas! Canada sounds magical in the winter!!! I’d love to see the ice sculptures and Banff and Nova Scotia where my grandpas family was from!

Yay! Glad you like it!

An amazing capture of the winter wonderland that is Canada. I would love to see Alberta in the winter

We love exploring our province in the winter – it is stunning!

Also a cool idea on just sitting down and doing a bit of people watching, I can imagine that with the amount of people living in Canada there really is a mix of cultures and styles.

I haven’t been to Canada in about 2 decades but Banff is superrrr high up on my travel bucket list! Can’t wait til it’s safer to travel again! <3

Beautiful images. Now I am more excited to visit Canada this Christmas. Thank you for sharing some amazing places to visit in Canada

I like the valuable information you provide in your articles. I’ll bookmark your weblog and check again here frequently. I’m quite certain I will learn many new stuff right here!

Best of luck for the next!

Thanks very interesting blog!

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Cross-Canada Road Trip: 4 Itineraries To Inspire You

Are you planning a family road trip and need some inspiration to craft your cross-Canada road trip itinerary? We’ve got you covered.

In 2020, we drove across Canada with our two toddlers. We took our time and drove from Quebec City, BC to Victoria, BC in approximately one month. During our trip, we got to exchange our experience with other traveling families.

So today, we are sharing a few different cross-Canada road trip itineraries for families (including toddler, young children and even teenagers). Three of the four itineraries were part of a RV trip across Canada.

Also, make sure to scroll to the end of the article to find a few tips to help you plan your trip across Canada.

Traveling to Canada? Get your Canada Road Trip Guide for Families

Note: Most itineraries for this Canadian road trip are between Quebec/Ontario to British Columbia, for a detailed itinerary for a East Coast road trip including Prince Edward Island, Bay of Fundy and Nova Scotia, check out this 124-Day Itinerary from Toronto to Halifax .

Disclaimer: Just a heads up, this free article contains affiliate links . If you purchase after clicking one of these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost . Also, as an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your support helps me continue to provide helpful and free content for you .

Cross-Canada Road Trip Itinerary: 4 Ideas to Inspire You

Below are four (4) unique cross-Canada road trip itinerary to help you plan your epic family road trip. If you are looking for tips on planning a road trip across Canada, you’ll want to read those resources instead:

• The Ultimate Canada Road Trip Guide for Families
• Driving Across Canada Tips

30-Day Itinerary With School Aged Kids

Contributed by Amélie

This itinerary is for a 30-day cross-Canada road trip from Quebec (QC) to Vancouver (BC), via Canada, then back from Vancouver (BC) to Quebec (QC), via the USA. It was taken by a family with two (2) school aged kids (7 and 9 years old)

Distance traveled : 10 855 km

Type of Road Trip : RV travel across Canada

General Itinerary – Where do you stop on a cross Canada road trip?

• Ontario: Deep River (ON), Kapuskasing (ON), Kakabeka Falls (ON)
• Prairies: Winnipeg (MB), Regina (SK), Swift Current (SK)
• Alberta: Drumheller (AB), Calgary (AB), Banff National Park (AB)
• British Columbia: Sicamous (BC), and finally Vancouver (BC)
• USA part: Ellensburg (WA), Yellowstone National Park (WY), Buffalo (WY), Mount Rushmore (SD), Chicago (IL)
• Ontario: Niagara Falls (ON), and finally home.

Cross Canada Road Trip Map: From Quebec to Vancouver (and back)

Things to see across Canada – Highlights of the Trip

• Kakabeka Falls, in Ontario
• Downtown Winnipeg, in Manitoba
• Driving in Saskatchewan and seeing the wide-open sky.

It can be surprising, but it feels good to drive across Saskatchewan and seeing the wide-open sky. After many kilometers in the forests of Ontario, the Prairies are refreshing.

Drumheller is in the heart of the Canadian badlands and the land of dinosaurs. Any kids who love dinosaurs will have a blast in Drumheller. We visited the Royall Terrell Museum and loved the Black Beauty (it’s the most complete skeleton of a T-Rex in the world). We also walked up the 106 stairs of the World’s Largest Dinosaur.

• Banff National Park

Banff is also high on the list, with a special love for Morraine Lake. Most people visit Lake Louise, which is great, but everyone should go to Moraine Lake as well.

• Grand Market and Stanley Park in Vancouver, British Columbia
• Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone is a huge park with nearly 3,500 square miles. If you want to see canyons, hot springs, and geysers, as well as bears, bison, elk, and antelope, Yellowstone is the place to explore.

There is so much to see, that it’s important to allow lots of time to explore it. I would recommend to anyone visiting the park to wake up at dawn to see the wild buffalos and walk along with the herd. It’s amazing.

• Mount Rushmore National Memorial.

Mount Rushmore National Memorial is a huge 60 ft high sculpture of 4 former U.S. presidents, carved into Mount Rushmore. It’s funny because we had zero expectations before stopping at Mount Rushmore.

6-Week Cross Canada Road Trip Itinerary With Teenagers

Co ntributed by Amelie

This itinerary is for a 6-week cross-Canada road trio from Montreal (QC) to Vancouver (BC), via Canada, then back from Vancouver (BC) to Montreal (QC), via the USA. It was taken by a family with three (3) teenagers.

Distance traveled : 11 387 km

Type of Road Trip: RV travel across Canada

• Ontario: Petawawa (ON), Upsala (ON)
• Prairies: Sidney (MB), Swift Current (SK)
• Alberta: Dinosaurs Provincial Park (AB), Banff National Park (AB), Jasper National Park (AB)
• British Columbia: Okanagan Valley (BC), Vancouver (BC)
• USA Part: Mt Rainier National Park (WA), Mt. St Helen (QA), Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park, Lake Michigan
• Ontario: Niagara Falls (ON)

Cross Canada Road Trip Map: From Montreal to Vancouver (and back)

Things to see across Canada – Hightlights of the Trip

• Canadian Badlands

This was kind of a hidden gem in Alberta! It’s beautiful and any kids would love the part about dinosaur fossils. Also, I remember we saw a rattlesnake there and were really impressed.

• Jasper National Park

The highlight of that road trip was  Jasper National Park . Everyone knows about Banff National Park, but I would actually recommend Jasper over Banff since it’s a bit less touristy and even more beautiful in my opinion.

• Stanley Park

I always love to go to Stanley Park when I go to Vancouver. Bike along the park and stop along for beautiful views of the city and boats!

• Kitsilano Beach

Have an evening BBQ or picnic there and enjoy the breathtaking sunset where mountains meet the sea!

• UBC Rose Garden

UBC has a really beautiful campus, but the rose garden is particularly beautiful!

• Victoria on Vancouver Island

Victoria is such a beautiful little city and kids would enjoy the ferry ride! Orca whale watching was a favorite activity during our visit and I would definitely bring older kids (like 7+). Government House Garden was also a hidden gem! It’s a beautiful garden in the middle of the city and the small museum would be enjoyable for kids!

It’s a skier’s paradise! But also fun to enjoy for non-skiers or as a family because there’s just so much to experience! Everything is expensive though. 

2-Month One-Way Road Trip Across Canada

This itinerary is for a 2-month cross-Canada road trio from Quebec City (QC) to Victoria (BC). t’s a one-way road trip that was taken by a family with two (2) toddlers aged 2 and 4 years old. It’s in fact the trip we took in 2020.

Distance traveled : 4 700 km

Type of Road Trip : Regular car road trip across Canada

• Ontario: Ottawa (ON), Pembrook (ON), Sault Ste-Marie (ON) to Thunder Bay (ON), Kenora (ON)
• Prairies: Regina (SK), Swift Current (SK)
• Alberta: Brooks (AB), Calgary (AB), Edmonton (AB), Banff National Park (AB), Canmore (AB)
• British Columbia: Radium Hot Spring (BC) Revelstoke (BC), Kelowna (BC), Nanaimo (BC), Victoria (BC), Vancouver (BC).

Cross Canada Road Trip Map : From Quebec City to Victoria

Things to see across Canada – Highlights of the Trip:

• Participate in the changing of the guard parade at the Parliament ( Ottawa ) 
• Follow a French “voyageur” through time at Fort William (Thunder Bay)  
• Meet Scotty the T-Rex at the Royal Saskatchewan Museum (Regina) 
• Discover the badlands at Dinosaur Provincial Park   
• Admire the view from the Banff Gondola (Banff)
• Get transported in a fairytale at the Enchanted Forest (Revelstoke)  
• Get lost in Stanley Park (Vancouver)  
• Eat some Fish & Chips at Fisherman’s Wharf (Victoria)
• Visit the Fisgard Lighthouse National Historical Site

3-Month One-Way Ottawa to Vancouver Road Trip

Contributed by Cyrielle from Together We Meande r

This itinerary is for a 3-month cross-Canada road trio from Ottawa to Vancouver. It’s a one-way road trip that was taken by a family with one young child aged 3 years old.

Distance traveled : 7 320 km

• Ontario: Ottawa (ON), Marmora (ON), Waterloo (ON), St Catharines (ON), Waubaushene (ON), Orillia (ON), Sault Ste Marie (ON), Marathon (ON), Thunder Bay (ON), Dryden (ON)
• Prairies: Winnipeg (MB), Portage La Prairie (MB), Yorkton (SK), Saskatoon (SK)
• Alberta: Lamont (AB), Edmonton (AB), Drumheller (AB), Rosemary (AB), Fort Macleod (AB), Calgary (AB), Banff (AB), Jasper (AB), Lake Louise (AB)
• British Columbia: Golden (BC), Armstrong (BC), Vernon (BC), Merritt (BC), Vancouver (BC), Penticton (BC), Grand Forks (BC) and Creston (BC).

Cross Canada Road Trip Map: From Ottawa to Vancouver, then back to Creston (BC)

• Niagara Falls (ON)

We also had an amazing experience taking the boat to see Niagara Falls (ON). I would totally recommend the experience

• Marmora in Ontario

It was a lovely surprise. We had never heard of this town and found it by accident on our way to Niagara. It’s the halfway point in between Ottawa and Toronto. The main attraction of the town is an old abandoned open-pit iron mine, now filled with hundreds of feet of water. 

• Old Woman Bay (ON)

On our way to Thunder Bay , and it was amazingly beautiful. It’s by Lake Superior, maybe 20 minutes before the town of Wawa, really close to the highway. It’s the perfect rest stop after a long drive.

It wasn’t in our first plan to go to Drumheller, but it was great. This town had the badland landscape, the hoodoos, and the famous Tyrrell Museum where we got to see lots of dinosaurs. This year, visitors had to book in advance to visit the museum and tickets sold out really quickly.

• Elk Island National Park

We were able to see lots of bisons roaming freely in Elk Island National Park. Our daughter loved it! However it was swarming with mosquitoes so we avoided the hikes after the first couple of days.

• The Forks area in downtown Winnipeg

near the Human Right museum. It’s a market and a public place where we can find the Winnipeg sign. 

Who doesn’t like to take pictures for city signs?

• Canadian Rocky Mountains

The Canadian Rockies are definitely the highlight of our trip. We got to do a canoe tour on the Bow River and in Lake Louise. We did a few hikes that were amazing, like Lake Agnes (near Lake Louise), Maligne Canyon, and the Valley of the 5 lakes, both in Jasper National Park.

Salmon Arm is the home of the longest inland wooden curved wharf in Canada. It’s definitely worth a stop. 

• Merritt in the Nicola Valley

Walking around the town was nice as the buildings reminded us of Western movies and there was lots of live music on the streets (it is the capital of Canadian country music). 

• Steveston in Richmond, Vancouver

We also enjoyed our visit to the village of Steveston, in Richmond in Vancouver. It’s where the tv show Once Upon a Time takes place.

Where to Stay While Driving Across Canada

There are so many options when it comes to finding the best place where to stay while driving across Canada. For hotels, you can check what is available where you are planning to stay overnight on Booking.com . For longer stays in a city, VRBO or HomeExchange are great options.

If you are planning a family RV trip across Canada, then here are a few of our favorite campgrounds across Canada. Make sure to book your campgrounds in National Parks in advance (if possible).

KOA Thunder Bay, Thunder Bay (ON)

We also loved  the amenities  at  KOA Thunder Bay . This campground is opened to RVs and tents, but cabins can be rented. There was a swimming pool, a big kid’s play area, and mini-golf.

When we were not in national parks, we always went with KOA campground s. They even offer a 10% discount to all their members, and they have locations everywhere in Canada and in the USA, so we were able to save there. 

Lamont RV Park and Campground, Lamont (AB)

We loved  the privacy and space  offered by  Lamont RV Park and Campground , less than 60 km away from Edmonton and very close to Elk Island National Park. It also had a great playground for the kids, which is always important. This campground is operating year-round, but only open to RVs, no tents.

Tunnel Mountain Campground in Banff National Park

Tunnel Mountain Campground is a great option when visiting Banff National Park. It’s important to book well in advance if visiting in July and August. The campground offers campsites for RV and tents, in two different locations. There are lots of trees and shade. Plus, firewood is included (when there is no fire band).

Camp-Along Resort, Penticton (BC)

We loved  the view  at the  Camp-along Resort in Penticton , BC. Penticton is in the heart of Okanagan Valley. It’s a campsite for tents and RV trailers. The cool thing about this park is that the land was originally an apricot and pear orchard. It was converted to a campground about 30 years ago.                                                                                         

Black Hills KOA, Black Hills (SD)

One of the best KOA campgrounds is in the Black Hills (SD) , near Mount Rushmore. This is a resort holiday site, so they have everything (camping, hotel, cabins). The site is impressive, the nicest we visited during the trip.

Driving Across Canada in Winter

If you are thinking of driving across Canada in the winter, there are a few precautions to take:

• Plan more time than you would when driving in the summertime.
• Research the local regulation regarding winter tires.
• Check the weather report regularly.
• Prepare your emergency car kit.

For more information on driving across Canada in the winter, read our detailed guide . And if you’re thinking of RVing across Canada in the winter , checkout this great resource and itinerary example.

F.A.Q Cross Canada Road Trip

What is the best route to drive across canada.

One of the best route to travel across Canada is by using the Trans Canada Highway. This highway crosses all Canada and is pretty simple to follow. Of course, if you have more time, you’ll want to get out of the main highway and explore a big more of the off-the-beaten path destinations.

How Long Does it take to Drive Across Canada

It really depends on how many hours of driving you’re planning per day, what you want to see and who you’re traveling with. If you want to enjoy your trip and have time to see some of the cities and national parks, you will need a minimum of one month. But if the goal is simply to drive across Canada with minimal stops, than you could do it a 5-6 days.

Is it worth driving across Canada?

Yes! It is worth driving across Canada IF you have the time. Don’t rush it. If you have limited time for this cross-country road trip and you simply want to hit the Canadian Rockies as soon as possible, you might want to discover flying and renting a car or a camper van in Calgary or Vancouver.

What is the best month to drive across Canada?

The best time to do a trip across Canada is between April and October, when the weather is better and limited chances of snow storm. It’s possible to drive across Canada in the wintertime, but it’s more fun in the summertime.

How much does a trip across Canada cost?

That is a great question and it will vary a lot depending on: the type of car you’re driving, the cost of gas (2022 may not be a cheap year for long road trips), the type of accommodation you’re using and where you get your food.

The cheapest way to drive across Canada would be to use a small camper van and do dispersed camping across Canada.

Final Thoughts: Cross-Canada Road Trip Itinerary

A big thanks to Amelie, Amélie et Cyrielle for taking the time to respond to our questions, and diving back into their memories and photo albums to share their amazing trip with us.

• Cyrielle from Together We Meander is a French family of 3 (4 if we include their cat), though they’ve been Canadian permanent residents since 2019. They drove for 3 months across Canada in an RV with their 4 year old daughter. You can follow their traveling journey on their  blog , on  YouTube  and on  Instagram . 
• Amelie is a French Canadian mom of two little boys aged 2 and 4 years old, with a third baby on the way. Her husband, from the province of Quebec as well,  and her are raising their family in the beautiful city of Seattle, on the west coast of the United States. That means they get to and explore the Pacific Northwest whenever they get the chance. 
• Amélie is a French Canadian mother of two boys (now 9 and 11 years old), a travel lover, and a french blogger. With her family, they were used to traveling a few times per year outside the province of Quebec. But this cross-country adventure was the first time they experienced a road trip style of travel.  You can (and should) follow her on her  blog , on  Facebook , and on  Instagram . 

Emilie is the founder of Love Life Abroad. She helps moms plan epic road trips and outdoor adventures with their families. Because who said adventuring had to stop once we have kids? She’s based in the Canadian Rockies and shares her love for the region as well as other unique places in Canada & USA. She works with tourism boards and outdoor brands to inspire families to experience new unique destinations and outdoor activities.

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Must Do Canada

The Best Things to Do in Canada

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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