Top 10 most beautiful national parks in Canada

Are you planning to go on a road trip in Canada to discover breathtaking landscapes and unspoiled wilderness? What a good idea!

To make the most of it, here is a selection of the 10 most beautiful national parks in Canada to include as much as possible in your itinerary.
 

Map of the 10 most beautiful national parks in Canada

#1. Banff National Park

Alberta

Banff National Park is the oldest national park in Canada, renowned for its stunning landscapes in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. With its crystal-clear lakes, like the famous Lake Louise, and its majestic mountains, Banff is a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether for hiking, skiing, or wildlife watching, this park offers an unforgettable experience immersed in Canadian nature.

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#2. Jacques-Cartier National Park

Quebec

The Jacques-Cartier National Park, located in Quebec, is a natural gem offering spectacular landscapes with its deep valleys and winding rivers. This park is ideal for hiking, canoeing, and wildlife watching in their natural habitat.

Visitors can discover a rich biodiversity and enjoy a preserved nature just 45 minutes from Quebec City. Jacques-Cartier Park is definitely among the 10 most beautiful national parks in Canada!

#3. Jasper National Park

Alberta

Jasper National Park is the largest park in the Canadian Rockies. This exceptional place captivates with its diverse landscapes, ranging from impressive glaciers to turquoise lakes, dense forests, and flower-filled meadows. Famous for the Icefields Parkway and the majestic Mount Edith Cavell, Jasper is a must-visit during a Canada trip.

Activities include hiking, stargazing, mountain biking, and possible encounters with bears. In winter, the park becomes a playground for skiing and snowshoeing.

#4. Pacific Rim National Park

British Columbia

Come breathe the sea air in Pacific Rim National Park, located on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. If you love the ocean and wild nature, then you will be delighted! Known for its vast beaches, lush forests, and perfect waves for surfing, this park is a must-see in Western Canada.

Among the hikes not to be missed, the Wild Pacific Trail offers spectacular views of the ocean and rock formations. It is also a prime spot for gray whale watching in the spring during their migration.

#5. Yoho National Park

British Columbia

The Yoho national park is considered one of the most beautiful national parks in Canada and for good reason! This park will charm you with its dizzying cliffs, impressive waterfalls such as the Takakkaw and Wapta Falls, and its emerald lakes like Lake O'Hara. 

If you enjoy hiking, don't miss the trail along Emerald Lake. Yoho is also renowned for its Natural Bridge and Burgess Shale deposits, which testify to the fascinating geological history of the region.

#6. Gros Morne National Park

Newfoundland and Labrador

Gros Morne National Park is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful national parks in Canada. Renowned for its spectacular fjords, steep cliffs, and alpine plateaus, this park is a true natural treasure. Here, you will discover breathtakingly beautiful peatlands and wild beaches. 

Also, explore the Tablelands, a rare geological formation exposing the Earth's mantle. It’s no surprise that Gros Morne Park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

#7. Forillon National Park

Quebec

The Forillon National Park, located in Gaspésie, is a true natural gem and one of the most beautiful national parks in Canada. It captivates with its majestic cliffs plunging into the ocean, dense forests, and wild beaches, giving it an end-of-the-world feel. 

If you love hiking, you will adore the Grande-Grave trail and Cap-Bon-Ami. Also, visit Cap-Gaspé where a historic lighthouse overlooks the ocean. Forillon is also a prime spot for whale and seal watching as well as numerous species of seabirds.

#8. Fundy National Park

New Brunswick

The Fundy National Park in New Brunswick is famous for the highest tides in the world. A kayaking trip is a great way to explore the bay of this superb Canadian national park and its absolutely unique coastal panorama. 

The Fundy Trail is a scenic route to explore by foot, bike, or car depending on your preference. For your best photos, don't miss the Dickson Falls.

#9. Prince Edward Island National Park

Prince Edward Island

The Prince Edward Island National Park, located on the namesake island, is undoubtedly among the most beautiful national parks in Canada. With its fine sandy beaches, impressive dunes, and iconic red cliffs, it will charm even the most demanding travelers. The Gulf Shore Parkway offers spectacular views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. 

This Canadian national park is perfect for appreciating the striking beauty of the Atlantic coast.

#10. Bruce Peninsula National Park

Ontario

Bruce Peninsula National Park is known for its turquoise waters and limestone cliffs. Take the time to explore its small coves, wild beaches, and majestic forest populated by black bears. Trails like the Bruce Trail offer exceptional views of Georgian Bay. 

Also, explore the Grotto, a spectacular natural cave, or go canoeing or stand-up paddling on the calm waters of Emmett, Cameron, or Cyprus Lakes.

You now know about the 10 most beautiful national parks in Canada! They perfectly capture the diversity and natural beauty of the world's second-largest country. 

Feel free to ask your questions in the comments!