Exploring Canada: Hidden Gems Recommended by Locals
Exploring Canada isn’t something you can rush. Every corner of this beautiful country, with its vast landscapes and changing views, tells a different story. However, even for those who live here, experiencing everything Canada has to offer can take a lifetime. So, when Canadians want to unwind or seek adventure, where do they go? iBestTravel asked four experts to share their favorite vacation spots, revealing parts of the country you might not be familiar with. You may want to add these to your itinerary for your next trip to Canada.
The Adventure of a Lifetime: K-Country, Alberta
Alex Butler is a iBestTravel editor from Alberta, Canada.
While many tourists flock to Banff National Park for its stunning mountain panoramas, just south lies an extraordinary outdoor recreation area where locals seek epic scenery and solitude: Kananaskis Country, affectionately known as K-Country.
Kananaskis Country spans roughly 4,000 square kilometers (about 1,444 square miles) and includes several provincial parks. As a child, I spent my weekends and summers here, camping, hiking, and developing a passion for snowshoeing, all with the breathtaking backdrop of the Rocky Mountains.
The turquoise waters of Kananaskis’s lakes can rival the beauty of Lake Louise while providing a quieter alternative. You can hike to the stunning Grassi Lakes or enjoy the reflections of towering mountains in the clear waters of both Lower and Upper Kananaskis Lakes. Don’t miss the picturesque Cat Creek Falls, perfect for a picnic spot.
This region offers plenty of activities for various outdoor comfort levels. For those who prefer relaxing, visit the Kananaskis Nordic Spa for a soothing experience. Alternatively, you can embark on a backcountry trail ride for a genuine Western adventure or enjoy local craft beer at the Grizzly Paw Taproom in Canmore. Remember, this is bear country, so it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with staying safe in the wilderness.
All-Season Weekender: Wakefield, Québec
Joel Balsam is a Canadian freelance journalist and traveler.
Escape to the vibrant village of Wakefield, Québec, located just a 30-minute drive northwest of Ottawa. This charming spot, filled with artists and quirky locals, offers a unique getaway. Sip coffee while soaking in local gossip at Café Earle, indulge in brunch at Le Hibou, and explore Métis artist Nathalie Coutou’s creations at Khewa Indigenous Art Boutique.
During summer, visit the iconic Wakefield Covered Bridge and relax on the banks of the beautiful Gatineau River. You can also explore the natural water labyrinth by pedal boat at Éco-Odyssée. In winter, enjoy skiing or snowboarding at Sommet Edelweiss or explore Gatineau Park on cross-country skis. Culinary enthusiasts will appreciate dinner at Muse in The Wakefield Mill Hotel & Spa after a night of live music at popular venues like Blacksheep Inn.
Hiking and Wild Swimming: North Shore Mountains, British Columbia
Brendan Sainsbury is a British travel writer living in British Columbia.
Paradise, for me, is trekking along sun-dappled trails in Vancouver’s North Shore Mountains equipped with bear spray and plenty of water. This magnificent area north of Vancouver is accessible via well-marked trailheads and offers breathtaking wilderness.
Among my favorite adventures are the rocky scramble to Crown Mountain and the invigorating Howe Sound Crest Trail, which features narrow traverses and glacial lakes for wild swimming. While many tourists use the Grouse Mountain gondola for access, hiking just 20 minutes beyond the main route leads you into a more serene, less-traveled wilderness.
Dinosaur Bones in “the Badlands”: Drumheller, Alberta
Karen Henderson is a Canadian writer and editor at iBestTravel.
While visitors commonly stay within Alberta’s national parks, the flatter regions boast unique attractions. Since my childhood, my family has driven to Drumheller, known for both its kitschy charm and remarkable natural landscape.
The area, famous for its hoodoos and deep canyons, is referred to as “the badlands.” Here, you can explore wind-shaped rock formations and discover Canada’s largest collection of dinosaur fossils at the Royal Tyrrell Museum of Palaeontology. Highlights include “Black Beauty,” the most complete T-rex skeleton in the province.
Campsites like the Bleriot Ferry Campground allow you to experience the Red Deer River’s beauty via kayaking, while enjoying stunning views from Orkney Viewpoint. The Last Chance Saloon offers comfort food in the nearby ghost town of Wayne, adding a dose of nostalgia to your visit.
In conclusion, while Canada boasts stunning natural beauty and lively small towns, each location presents endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and discovery. Whether it’s K-Country, Wakefield, the North Shore Mountains, or Drumheller, you’re bound to return home with cherished memories.
