Top 5 Overlooked National Parks in Canada for Nature Lovers

Canada, with its vast and varied landscapes offers an opportunity to feel the ecstasy of nature. The country is home to many lesser-known parks that offer unique experiences and breathtaking beauty.

For those looking to escape the crowds and dive deeper into Canada’s natural wonders, National parks are well worth exploring. Here’s a look at five parks in Canada that deserve a spot on your bucket list.

1. Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon

Kluane National Park and Reserve is a vast wilderness in the Yukon. It is home to Canada’s highest peak, Mount Logan, and one of the world’s largest non-polar icefields.

Despite its magnificence, Kluane remains a relatively under-the-radar destination for adventurers. This makes it perfect for those seeking solitude and untouched landscapes.

The park is a haven for hikers, mountaineers, and wildlife enthusiasts. The King’s Throne Trail offers sweeping views of Kathleen Lake and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. Furthermore, experienced adventurers can explore the glacier-clad backcountry.

The Kluane’s rich ecosystem consists of grizzly bears, Dall sheep, mountain goats, and golden eagles. You can take a scenic flight over the park’s glaciers for a bird’s-eye view of the rocky wilderness.

2. Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador

Though Gros Morne National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site, it often flies under the radar compared to other Canadian parks. Located on Newfoundland’s west coast, Gros Morne offers a stunning mix of fjords, mountains, forests, and coastal scenery.

The park’s diverse geology, including the Tablelands—a barren landscape of exposed mantle rock—makes it a unique destination for nature lovers.

The Western Brook Pond fjord is one of Gros Morne’s crown jewels, with towering cliffs that frame a serene freshwater lake. You can explore this natural wonder by boat, taking in the striking cliffs and waterfalls that cascade into the lake.

Hikers can challenge themselves with the Gros Morne Mountain Trail, a trek that rewards climbers with panoramic views from the summit.

Also, if you prefer more leisurely walks, the Green Gardens Trail meanders through coastal meadows and cliffs, will give you a taste of the region’s diverse landscapes.

3. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec

Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, located along Quebec’s Gulf of St. Lawrence, is a spot comprising of over 1,000 small islands and islets. This park is a dream destination with its unique limestone monoliths that have been sculpted by centuries of wind and waves.

Kayaking is one of the best ways to explore the park. You can paddle through calm waters dotted with these towering rock formations. Birdwatchers will delight in the opportunity to spot puffins, razorbills, and other seabirds that nest in the archipelago.

The park’s remote location and lack of large crowds make it ideal for a peaceful retreat into nature. Camping on one of the islands is another unforgettable experience, with the sound of the ocean as your only companion under a starlit sky.

4. Prince Albert National Park, Saskatchewan

Located in central Saskatchewan, Prince Albert National Park is a lesser-known park that combines lush boreal forests, sparkling lakes, and open grasslands. This park offers an array of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, from hiking and canoeing to wildlife spotting.

One of the park’s unique features is the opportunity to see plains bison roaming freely in their natural habitat. You can hike the Boundary Bog Trail for a closer look at the boreal forest ecosystem or take a paddle on the tranquil waters of Waskesiu Lake.

The park is also home to Grey Owl’s Cabin, the historic residence of one of Canada’s most famous conservationists. The park’s blend of natural beauty and historical significance makes it a must-visit for those seeking a quieter, more intimate national park experience.

5. Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan

Grasslands National Park in southern Saskatchewan is one of the few remaining natural grassland ecosystems in North America. It offers a chance to explore a vast, open landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see.

Grasslands National Park is rich in biodiversity consisting of prairie dogs, bison, pronghorn antelope, and the endangered burrowing owl. The park’s rolling hills, and dramatic badlands create a strikingly different terrain from the forested parks that dominate Canada’s national park system.

The 70 Mile Butte Trail offers panoramic views of the surrounding prairie, while the Ecotour Scenic Drive takes visitors through the park’s diverse habitats. Grasslands is also a designated Dark Sky Preserve, making it one of the best places in Canada to stargaze.

Takeaway

While Canada’s well-known national parks are undeniably beautiful, there’s something special about exploring the less traveled roads. These five overlooked parks offer stunning landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and the opportunity to connect with nature in a more peaceful and intimate setting.

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