Breathtaking views: The best scenic drives across Canada
What's the story
Canada, celebrated for its vast landscapes and natural beauty, is a prime destination for road travel enthusiasts. From rugged coastlines to majestic mountains, and dense forests to expansive prairies, the scenery's diversity is unmatched. This article explores five scenic drives across Canada, offering breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences for travelers, showcasing the country's unparalleled natural beauty.
Drive 1
The Cabot Trail's coastal beauty
The Cabot Trail, a 298 km loop around Cape Breton Island's northern tip in Nova Scotia, offers ocean vistas, cliffs, and lush highlands. This route goes through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, allowing for wildlife sightings, trail hikes, and fresh seafood from local villages. The best visiting times are between May and October, when the weather is most favorable.
Drive 2
Journey through the Rockies on Icefields Parkway
Spanning 232 km between Lake Louise and Jasper, Alberta, the Icefields Parkway offers one of North America's most spectacular journeys. Travelers are treated to awe-inspiring views of towering mountains, ancient glaciers, and turquoise lakes. Key stops include Peyto Lake and the Columbia Icefield. Wildlife sightings along this route are common, making it an unforgettable experience year-round.
Drive 3
The historic route of Quebec's Gaspe Peninsula
The Gaspe Peninsula, or Route 132, extends over 885 km around its coastline. It blends natural beauty with rich history, featuring lighthouses, fishing villages, and the iconic Perce Rock - a limestone formation rising from the sea. Autumn's vibrant foliage makes it an ideal season for this drive, offering a blend of scenic views and historical exploration.
Drive 4
Ontario's Waterfront Trail adventure
Ontario's Waterfront Trail, stretching over 3,000 km along Lake Ontario's shores and beyond, showcases diverse landscapes. These include urban beaches in Toronto, serene parks, and historic sites like Fort Henry in Kingston. Suitable for both cycling and driving, the trail offers numerous opportunities for exploration across Canada's Great Lakes region, making it a versatile journey for travelers of all interests.
Drive 5
Vancouver Island's Pacific Rim Highway
The Pacific Rim Highway (Highway 4) on Vancouver Island offers a dramatic journey through rainforests, mountains, and coastline. Stretching approximately 130 km from Parksville to Tofino, it includes highlights such as Cathedral Grove's ancient Douglas firs and Long Beach in Pacific Rim National Park Reserve. Spring or summer are ideal seasons for this drive as you can enjoy both hiking trails and beach activities.