From sleepy seaside towns to majestic landscapes, Canada boasts countless incredible places to explore—some of them you may never have heard of!

Whether you’re planning a trek across the country or simply want to round up the family for a weekend adventure, these are the underrated spots you won’t want to miss.

 

BRITISH COLUMBIA:

Haida Gwaii for a rugged adventure 

Haida Gwaii is a breathtaking archipelago off the coast of British Columbia. Translating to the “islands of the people,” Haida Gwaii is the ancestral land of the Haida people and has a population of about 4,500. Begin your trip at the Haida Heritage Centre for an introduction to the local history and culture, including a museum and traditional totem pole and a canoe carving shed.

The islands are home to three main villages—HlGaagilda (Skidegate), Masset and the Village of Daajing Giids—offering quaint places to stay, such as the Copper Beech House in Masset, owned by Canadian poet Susan Musgrave. Kayak, surf, hike and boat your way around the rugged landscape, either on your own or on one of the many guided tours available. After exploring, indulge in fresh, tide-to-table seafood at Haida House.

 

ALBERTA:

Mistaya Canyon for a majestic, family-friendly hike 

Off the iconic Icefields Parkway on the edge of Banff National Park, this canyon is a lesser-known natural attraction that’s definitely worth a visit. Rushing waters flowing down from the nearby Peyto Lake create a stunning limestone gorge surrounded by centuries-old trees.

Mistaya Canyon sits around the midway point between the everpopular towns of Jasper and Banff—it’s a great place to stop to stretch your legs while visiting the area. The canyon is accessible through a short 1.8-kilometre hike, easy enough for families but still interesting for experienced hikers. Venture along the trail to lookout points with spectacular views of the gorge and the Rocky Mountains for incredible photo opportunities.

 

SASKATCHEWAN:

Grasslands National Park for dinosaur fossils and stars 

Are the wide-open, rolling prairies of Saskatchewan calling your name? Visit Grasslands National Park, located on the southern border of the province. It’s one of the best places in the world to see the K-Pg boundary (a layer of soil that marks the end of the dinosaur age). Search for fossils and go geocaching to discover special places hidden in the park.

Keep your eyes peeled for all of the wildlife—you may see bison, bald eagles and antelope in their natural habitat. Amateur and professional astronomers can visit the Dark Sky Preserve at night for the most magical view of the stars. If you’re short on time, spend a couple of hours hiking the 70 Mile Butte Trail up to the highest point in the area for stunning panoramic views.

 

MANITOBA:

Little Limestone Lake for colour-changing waters

Believe it or not, this lake changes colour! Little Limestone Lake in northern Manitoba is the world’s largest marl lake. Its turquoise-hued water turns crystal clear thanks to the reaction of calcium carbonate with changing water temperatures.

You can spend the day paddling, fishing and spotting local wildlife, including threatened woodland caribou. Grab a campsite for the night at nearby campgrounds in Grand Rapids, such as Cook’s Campground and Cabins. They have fire pits, picnic tables and easy access to ATV trails.

 

ONTARIO:

Manitoulin Island for delicious food and views 

 A scenic drive on the Bruce Peninsula will lead you to the harbour town Tobermory. Here, hop on the iconic Chi-Cheemaun ferry to Manitoulin Island. Gaze out at the stunning blue water of Lake Huron along the way, then hit the ground running. The world’s largest freshwater island is packed with trails, lookout points and Indigenous history. Visit Bridal Veil Falls for a selfie at the waterfall, and make sure to bring a towel for an afternoon at the sandy two-kilometre Providence Bay Beach.

Need a pick-me-up after a long day of adventuring? Grab a beer at the Split Rail Brewing Co., a scoop (or two!) of ice cream at 3 Cows and a Cone or Anishinaabe tacos at North 46.

 

QUEBEC:

Hautes-Gorges-de-la-Rivière-Malbaie National Park for soaring peaks and stunning valleys  

Warning! The glacial valleys and soaring mountains located in Quebec’s Charlevoix region may leave you gobsmacked when you experience their grandeur in person. Visit for the day from the nearby town of La Malbaie or immerse yourself in nature by staying at the park’s campgrounds. There’s no shortage of activities to do here—boat or paddle the river and bike or hike the trails, For a more relaxing experience, take a scenic cruise on the Rivière Malbaie where you’ll enjoy the sights while learning the secrets of the valley from a park warden. And whatever you do, don’t miss the majestic waterfalls.

 

NEW BRUNSWICK:

Black beach for the black sand beach

You might imagine a black sand beach to only exist on tropical volcanic islands, but did you know that Canada has one on the edge of New Brunswick? Just outside Lorneville, N.B., the sprawling Black Beach is a little-known spot nestled in the Musquash Estuary off Fundy Bay. Unlike other black sand beaches, which are typically dark in colour due to volcanic minerals, Black Beach’s iconic hue is a result of graphite deposits. While you’re there, check out the nearby trails and lighthouse on Musquash Head—if you’re lucky, you might even spot some harbour seals basking on the rocks!

 

NUNAVUT:

Auyuittuq National Park for a true Arctic experience

Dreaming of exploring the Arctic wilderness? A visit to Auyuittuq National Park will take you deep into the remote glaciers, rugged mountains and Inuit culture of Nunavut’s Baffin Island. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or simply love the outdoors, there are plenty of ways to discover the park. For a days-long expedition, don’t miss the 97-kilometre Akshayuk Pass, a popular hiking and skiing destination set between dramatic ice and mountains. For a more relaxed pace, take a snowmobile day trip to explore the Arctic Circle, guided by Parks Canada staff who are knowledgeable in the local history.

Before you make the northern trek to the park, be sure to explore Iqaluit, Nunavut’s capital city. Try out some local dishes, such as the Arctic char or caribou stew from The Frob Kitchen & Eatery, and check out Inuit galleries and art.

 

NOVA SCOTIA:

Cape Breton Highlands National Park for an oceanside adventure 

There are plenty of scenic spots for tent and RV camping along the Cabot Trail. If you need some indoor time, rest your head at the Glenora Inn & Distillery. This Scottish inn is not only cozy, but you also can try a glass of Canada’s oldest single malt whisky and indulge in some dreamy sticky toffee pudding.

 

PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND:

Thunder Cove Beach for a relaxing dip in the ocean

On the north shore of the island, Thunder Cove Beach remains a local secret. Its sandstone cliffs, columns and cave formations were shaped by the wind and water over thousands of years, creating a beautiful landscape. Take a stroll down the red sand beach or go for a soothing dip in the ocean, which can warm up to bathtub-like temperatures by the end of summer.

Make sure to stop by Ship to Shore, around 10 minutes away by car, for fresh mussels and lobster rolls, or the Malpeque Oyster Barn for local oysters. To make the most of your island experience, check out the nearby Anne of Green Gables Museum, where you can visit the character’s beloved Lake of Shining Waters. 

 

NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR:

Port Rexton and Trinity East for a cliffside hike

 

NORTHWEST TERRITORIES:

Yellowknife for breathtaking views of the Aurora Borealis

If seeing the Northern Lights—AKA the Aurora Borealis—is on your bucket list, then going to the Northwest Territories is a no-brainer. Yellowknife, the capital of this expansive territory, is one of the best places in the world to watch this spectacular light show. In fact, you can catch it up to 240 nights a year! Admire the Aurora Borealis from Yellowknife, or take a drive just outside of the city for a view free of light pollution. If you’re interested in learning more about the lights from locals, stop by the Indigenous-owned and -operated Aurora Village for a knowledge-filled (and warmer!) experience. Once you’ve caught a glimpse of the lights, there’s no shortage of daytime activities to tackle in the city. Paddle down Great Slave Lake, watch a diamond polishing demonstration at the NWT Diamond Centre and visit the local heritage centre.

 

YUKON:

Carcross for the world's smallest desert

Just an hour south of Whitehorse lies Carcross, a village bordered by two lakes and a desert—yes, a desert! Often dubbed the smallest desert in the world, the Carcross Desert is made up of sandy dunes that were once the bottom of a glacial lake. Adventure seekers will love sandboarding or riding ATVs down the dunes. For an extra thrill, head over to the Montana Mountain trails for some incredible biking and hiking.

Originally named Caribou Crossing for the white-tailed caribou who used to frequent the area, Carcross is home to the Carcross/Tagish First Nation. Soak in and appreciate the local community by admiring traditional totem poles around the town, then visit a carving shed to watch and learn the significance of the colours and shapes.

 

Long Weekend Driving Trip Ideas Across Canada