Travelling within Canada is often more affordable than travelling abroad. With the rising cost of airfare and currency fluctuations, more Canadians are choosing to explore closer to home and discovering that some of the most remarkable destinations are right in our own backyard.
Canada Strong Pass
The newly launched Canada Strong Pass makes this easier than ever, offering exclusive travel offers and seasonal experiences to help inspire your next getaway. The pass provides free or discounted admission to some of the country’s most iconic places from June 20 to September 2, 2025.
Here are twelve of Canada’s most underrated travel destinations — places that surprise, delight, and linger long after you’ve returned home.
1. Tofino, British Columbia
Surf, hot springs, and old-growth forests on Vancouver Island
Known for its surf culture and rugged beauty, Tofino is a year-round haven for adventurers and food lovers. Whale watching, storm watching, and exploring nearby hot springs make this coastal village an ideal destination for those seeking to reconnect with nature. Local Indigenous operators offer cultural tours that provide a deeper understanding of the land and its people.
Although this is a well-known destination, there are lots of hidden gems along the entire stretch of this Pacific Rim destination. This Vancouver Island road trip is definitely bucket-list worthy.
Surfers at Wickaninnish Beach, Tofino. Vancouver to Tofino Road Trip. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
2. Manitoulin Island, Ontario
The world’s largest freshwater island rich in Indigenous culture
Manitoulin Island is steeped in Anishinaabe culture. Visitors can participate in guided Indigenous experiences through the Great Spirit Circle Trail, hike the Cup and Saucer Trail, and enjoy the tranquillity of its many inland lakes. The island’s cultural richness and peaceful pace make it a true retreat.
3. Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan
Quiet prairie trails, grazing bison, and endless stars
Southern Saskatchewan’s Grasslands National Park offers a rare kind of quiet — the kind that lets you hear your own footsteps, the wind in the grass, and the low rumble of bison in the distance. This is a place of deep history and wild beauty. Wander among 20,000 tipi rings and ancient hearth sites, trace the routes of bison drive lanes, and walk across the ground where dinosaur fossils lie buried.
By day, hike through rolling prairie and open skies. At night, the stars take centre stage in one of Canada’s best Dark Sky Preserves. It’s a place that humbles you, grounds you, and gently insists you slow down.
Hidden gems in Canada – Scenes from sunrise along the Badlands Parkway in the East Block of Grasslands National Park. Photo: Parks Canada, Kevin Hogarth©
Two young campers in the badlands area of the Valley of the 1000 Devils, Grasslands National Park. Photo: Parks Canada-Kevin Hogarth©
4. Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site, Alberta
Historic fur trade site surrounded by rivers, wilderness, and the foothills of the Rockies
Rocky Mountain House connects visitors to Canada’s fur trade past. Tour the national historic site, hike riverside trails, or paddle the North Saskatchewan River. For a unique overnight experience, book a Métis trapper tent or a tipi.
Visitors on Parks Canada’s Red Chairs, gazing at the Milky Way galaxy on a starry night in August. Parks Canada, Ryan Bray©
Two female visitors biking along the David Thompson Trail, beside the North Saskatchewan River, on a sunny afternoon at Rocky Mountain House National Historic Site. Photo: Parks Canada, Scott Munn.
5. Tablelands at Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland & Labrador
An otherworldly landscape of ancient rock in Gros Morne National Park
The rust-hued rocks of the Tablelands are actually part of the Earth’s mantle that has been pushed to the surface by tectonic forces. Walking through this Mars-like terrain offers insight into our planet’s geology. The surrounding Gros Morne area also offers fjords, fishing villages, and rich storytelling traditions.
8 Reasons Why Newfoundland and Labrador Should Be on Your Bucket-list
Hike the Mantel Trail at Tablelands, Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Western Pond, Gros Morne National Historic Site. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Rocky Harbour Lobster Cove Head Lighthouse, Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
6. Haida Gwaii, British Columbia
One of the most spiritually powerful places in Canada, deeply rooted in Haida culture
Home to ancient totem poles, quiet rainforests, and dramatic coastal scenery, Haida Gwaii is a journey into another world. Learn about the Haida Nation at the Haida Heritage Centre and explore Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve — one of the few places in the world protected from mountain top to sea floor.
Watchman at Hlk’yah GawGa (Windy Bay) leads visitors on a guided tour through old-growth forest in early July. Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site. Photo: Parks Canada,Scott Munn©
Seascapes of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site. Photo: Parks Canada, Sophie Deschamps©
Ancient poles have stood for hundreds of years in Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site. Photo: Parks Canada, Scott Munn©
7. Kouchibouguac National Park, New Brunswick
Sand dunes, salt marshes, and perfect stargazing
Kouchibouguac is family-friendly and ecologically diverse. You’ll find warm ocean water, excellent biking trails, and the chance to see seals basking on the sandbars. It’s also a Dark Sky Preserve, perfect for summer stargazing.
Landscape of the boardwalk leading to Kellys Beach. Kouchibouguac National Park. Photo: Parks Canada, Nigel Fearon©
Red chairs at Kellys Beach during sunrise, Kouchibouguac National Park. Photo: Parks Canada, Nigel Fearon©
8. The Magdalen Islands, Quebec
Red cliffs, salty breezes, and warm Acadian hospitality
Isolated in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, the Magdalen Islands are all about windswept charm and fresh seafood. Enjoy kitesurfing, coastal hikes, and artisan shops. The blend of Acadian and Québécois culture creates a truly unique island experience.
9. Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where prairie meets peaks, known for hiking and rare wildlife
Often overshadowed by nearby Banff, Waterton Lakes National Park is a quieter alternative with jaw-dropping beauty. Hike the Crypt Lake Trail, spot wildlife like bears and mountain goats, and enjoy the quaint charm of the lakeside town.
10. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec
Unique limestone monoliths, marine life, and remote island landscapes along the Gulf of St. Lawrence
The remote cluster of islands of the Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve is known for its surreal rock formations and abundant seabird colonies. Take a boat tour, watch for whales, and hike coastal trails surrounded by natural sculptures shaped by centuries of wind and sea.
Limestone monoliths at Anse des Érosions on Quarry Island. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve. Parks Canada, Éric Lajeunesse©
A limestone formation, called “The Castle,” far off with a glimpse of the sea and a semi-cloud. Parks Canada, Lévis Landry©
The Dame de Niapiskau limestone monolith stands out among other monoliths in the mist in Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve. Photo: Parks Canada, Éric Lajeunesse©
11. Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
Breathtaking coastal drives, Celtic music, and hiking the legendary Cabot Trail
Cape Breton is where cliffs meet culture. The world-renowned Cabot Trail offers some of Canada’s best coastal scenery. Immerse yourself in Gaelic music, visit the Fortress of Louisbourg, or hike in Cape Breton Highlands National Park.
Stunning views along the Cabot Trail north of Chéticamp. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
12. Bay of Fundy, Nova Scotia/New Brunswick
Home to the world’s highest tides, whale watching, and coastal cuisine
Twice a day, the Bay of Fundy puts on a spectacular show as tides rise and fall by as much as 16 metres. Explore the ocean floor at low tide, go sea kayaking, or sample some of the freshest seafood in Canada.
Iconic Hopewell Rocks at low tide in the Bay of Fundy New Brunswick. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
Stunning views from the Fundy Bay Coastal Drive in New Brunswick. Photo: Wendy Nordvik-Carr©
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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.
Yes We gave been to the Rockies, to Kouchbougouac, to Fundy Park & The Rocks, to Cape Breton Island and to Mingan archipelago just last week. It’s extraordinaire. Loved it.
Little Lake Manitou – Saskatchewan. The lake is a salt Lake. The Dead Sea of Canada.
This is great information. Thanks for letting others no about this wonderful spot.