From coast to coast to the far north, here are 10 unforgettable Canadian experiences to add to your bucket list this summer. Canada has so much to offer, from its vast wilderness to its rugged coastlines and vibrant cities, making it the perfect playground for summer exploration. There are endless things to do. Whether hiking dramatic mountain trails, exploring hidden coves, or indulging in local cuisine, a Canadian adventure awaits.
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Canadian Adventures to Explore
Alert: From June 20 to September 2, 2025, enjoy Parks Canada: Free admission for all visitors to national parks, historic sites, and marine conservation areas administered by Parks Canada and a 25% discount on camping fees. The Canada Strong Pass lets you explore the country’s richness—from museums to nature to railroads.
Just visit participating locations! The Canada Strong Pass is not a physical pass that you need to purchase, sign up for, or collect. Simply visit any participating Parks Canada site, museum, gallery, or VIA Rail to benefit from free admission or discounts. Learn more about the pass eligibility details.
1. Newfoundland and Labrador: Icebergs, Puffins & Viking Legends
Step into a storybook landscape in Newfoundland and Labrador, where pastel-coloured villages cling to cliffs and icebergs drift past historic harbours. Explore the Viking settlement at L’Anse aux Meadows, hike the dramatic trails of Gros Morne National Park, or hop on a boat tour to spot puffins and humpback whales. The sense of remoteness here is part of the magic. It’s Canada at its rawest and most captivating.
Tip: Visit in June or July for peak iceberg viewing and puffin season.
Here’s 8 Reasons Why Newfoundland and Labrador Should Be on Your Bucket-list
One of the spectacular icebergs I saw floating by on my Dark Tickle Expedition in Newfoundland and Labrador. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
2. Nova Scotia: Coastal Charm & Culinary Trails
Nova Scotia is made for road trips. Start in Halifax, then meander your way around the South Shore, sampling fresh lobster in Lunenburg and basking in the seaside vibes of Peggy’s Cove. For a deeper dive, explore the Bay of Fundy’s tides or paddle the sheltered waters of the 100 Wild Islands.
Don’t miss: The Good Cheer Trail, Canada’s first winery, craft brewery, and distillery trail.
Here is a The Best Nova Scotia Road Trip Adventure; 14 Day Itinerary to help get you started.
3. The Cabot Trail: One of the World’s Greatest Drives
The Cabot Trail loops through Cape Breton Highlands National Park, and it is a must for adventure lovers. Drive along cliffside roads, hike the Skyline Trail for ocean panoramas, and catch traditional fiddlers playing in small Gaelic and Acadian communities. It’s a feast for the eyes and the soul.
Read the Ultimate 7 Day Cape Breton Island Adventure Guide
Best time to go: Late June to early September, when everything is open and the views are at their lushest.
Scenic road trip along the Cabot Trail on Cape Breton Island Nova Scotia. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
4. New Brunswick: Tidal Wonders and Whale Watching
Often overlooked, New Brunswick is full of surprises. Walk the ocean floor at Hopewell Rocks during low tide, then kayak around them as the Bay of Fundy tides roll back in. The Fundy Trail Parkway offers breathtaking coastal views, while St. Andrews by-the-Sea is a charming stop for fine dining and whale-watching tours.
Insider tip: Book a zodiac whale-watching tour for a better chance at seeing humpbacks and fin whales.
Explore World Wonders on the Bay of Fundy Coastal Drive in New Brunswick
Sea kayaking at Hopewell Rocks Bay of Fundy New Brunswick. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
5. Banff and Lake Louise: Classic Canadian Rockies Adventure
Few places define “epic” like Banff National Park. Paddle the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, hike the Plain of Six Glaciers, or soak in the Banff Upper Hot Springs after a day of summiting peaks. The towering mountains, glacier-fed lakes, and abundant wildlife make this a bucket-list experience for good reason.
Pro tip: Visit early morning or later in the evening to beat the crowds at popular viewpoints.: Surf, Sip & Soak in Nature
Explore the Banff Travel Guide: Best things to do in Banff and Lake Louise
Paddler at Two Jack Lake near Banff. Photo: Shannon Martin©
6. Vancouver Island: Surf, Sip and Soak in Nature
Vancouver Island packs a punch with endless experiences. Head west to Tofino for surfing, storm-watching (yes, even in summer), and sunset beach strolls. In the Cowichan Valley, discover a growing wine and food scene. And don’t miss a boat tour out of Telegraph Cove, it is one of the best places in the world to see orcas in the wild.
Extra adventure: Hike a section of the rugged Juan de Fuca Trail or go kayaking in the Broken Group Islands.
Vancouver Island Road Trip: Victoria to Pacific Rim National Park
7. Quebec: Culture, Nature & Culinary Delights
From Montreal’s music festivals to the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec City, summer in Quebec is a cultural affair. But don’t stop there, venture into Charlevoix for three seasons of whale watching on the St. Lawrence or hike in Jacques-Cartier National Park for moose sightings and alpine serenity.
Foodie tip: Try poutine in its birthplace, but save room for farm-to-table dining in the countryside.
Explore the Gaspé Peninsula the most scenic drive in Quebec
Stunning scenic roads of Quebec. Courtesy Photo©
8. Ontario: From Urban Energy to Natural Escapes
Ontario shines in summer. Kayak through Algonquin Park, cycle the Niagara wine region or enjoy a beach day on the Bruce Peninsula. Hit up patio season in Toronto or hop on the ferry to the Toronto Islands for skyline views and chill vibes.
Hidden gem: The Thousand Islands region—best explored by boat—offers historic castles and endless channels.
Lake Superior is one of the best scenic drives in Ontario
The shores of Lake Superior as viewed from one of the most scenic drives in Canada. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Chippewa Falls is located on one of the top scenic drives in Ontario. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
9. Prince Edward Island: Red Sands and Island Flavours
PEI is the stuff of summer dreams: picture red sand beaches, coastal drives, and a laid-back pace. Bike the Confederation Trail, indulge in fresh seafood at a beachside shack, and relive childhood classics at Green Gables Heritage Place.
Best time to visit: July and August for warm beach days, lobster rolls, and Anne of Green Gables festivals.
Discover famous PEI lobster in North Rustico
Travel Prince Edward Island and discover the top things to do in PEI as you drive along winding roads through the beautiful countryside of rolling hills and woodlands to its stunning red sandstone cliffs. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
10. Yukon: The Wild North Awaits
For those truly seeking the wild, Yukon delivers. Explore the vast silence of Kluane National Park, paddle the Yukon River, or road trip the Dempster Highway. In Dawson City, pan for gold and step back into the days of the Klondike Gold Rush.
Epic moment: Catch the midnight sun in June when the skies barely darken.
Explore the most scenic Yukon roads in pristine wilderness
Scenic Yukon road trips are a great Canadian adventure. Experience Top of the World Highway, Dempster Highway, South Klondike Highway, North Klondike Highway, Alaska Highway and the Klondike Kluane Loop.
Canada offers much to discover. If you have questions about any of these areas, drop a comment below.
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About the Author:
Wendy Nordvik-Carr is a highly regarded travel writer who produces quality, well-researched articles with stunning photography and video.
She seeks out authentic experiences showcasing the people, culture and history that make each destination unique. Her focus is on solo, couple and multigenerational travel through cruising, air and road trip adventures.
Wendy is the editor & writer for LifesIncredibleJourney.com, an award-winning travel site that encourages exploration of destinations near & far.
She is a TMAC Director, Chair, National Governance Committee and Chair of TMAC's BC & Yukon Chapter, as well as a member of SATW, IFWTWA and NATJA.
Again, nothing about Prairie beauty. While mountains and seascapes have a smash’em-in- yer-face obvious gorgeousness, Prairie beauty is more quiet and subtle. You have waving fields of bright yellow canola, deeper yellow mustard, the tan of waving wheat and sky blue flax. Mountains and seascapes may have an exciting beauty, but the Canadian Prairies give you a peaceful and calm Vista.
Thank you for commenting. I write about places I have been to. I visited Saskatchewan for the first time in June and the subtle beauty was impressive. I did include the stunning Grasslands of Saskatchewan on this article 12 Hidden Gems in Canada You May Not Know About (But Should) I will be writing more about my visit soon. I hope to explore Manitoba and more of Alberta and the Yukon soon.
Dinosaures Provincial Park, Badlands, Alberta
Those are great suggestions!