15 Best Outdoor Activities in Canada

Outdoor Activities in Canada are exciting, plus there is a lot to choose from! We share the best so you can plan the perfect outdoor adventure.

There are some amazing places to visit in Canada, each offering unique adventures and nature spots. From the breathtaking Niagara Falls to the stunning national parks, let’s dive into the best outdoor activities in Canada.

Best Outdoor Activities in Canada

1) Hiking in the Rocky Mountains

No outdoor activities in Canada list could not include the Rocky Mountains, one of the most breathtaking, natural experiences in the country.

The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the most breathtaking hiking trails in the world. Whether you explore Banff, Jasper, or Yoho National Park, you’ll find trails that range from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.

Popular hikes include the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail in Banff, which offers stunning glacier views, and the Skyline Trail in Jasper, a multi-day trek with panoramic vistas; both are considered some of the best hikes in Canada.

2) Kayaking in British Columbia

For those who love water activities, kayaking along the coast of British Columbia is an unforgettable experience and another one of the best outdoor activities in Canada.

The region’s rugged coastline, dotted with remote islands and inlets, is perfect for exploring by kayak. Paddling in the Johnstone Strait offers the chance to see orcas, while Desolation Sound provides serene waters and stunning mountain backdrops.

3) Nature Parks in Canada

For the outdoor person who feels most at ease in nature, Canada’s nature parks provide the ideal stage for sporting and fitness pursuits. From kayaking across Quebec’s pristine lakes to riding the coastal roads of British Columbia, outdoor sports are the ideal way to stay fit.

In Calgary, for example, several parks are facilitated with outdoor fitness equipment, where tourists can engage in several exercises in the stunning surroundings they are in. The Calgary parks with outdoor fitness equipment offer free, accessible workout stations, enabling travelers to maintain their fitness routine while enjoying the fresh air and breathtaking views.

4) Whale Watching in the Atlantic Provinces

Canada’s eastern provinces, particularly Newfoundland and Nova Scotia, are some of the best places in the world for whale watching, one of my favorite outdoor activities in Canada.

Every summer, thousands of humpback whales migrate to these waters, offering spectacular sightings. The Bay of Fundy, known for having the world’s highest tides, is a prime spot to witness these majestic creatures breaching and playing in the waves.

5) Skiing and Snowboarding in Whistler

Whistler Blackcomb, one of North America’s premier ski resorts, attracts winter sports enthusiasts from around the world.

With over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, the resort caters to all skill levels, from beginners to expert skiers. The stunning alpine scenery, vibrant village atmosphere, and world-class amenities make Whistler a must-visit destination for winter sports lovers.

As newbie skiers, we found this the perfect place to learn the basics, with affordable small classes. Plus, the resort gives you that true Winter vibe, perfect in the lead-up to the holidays.

6) Camping in Algonquin Provincial Park

Ontario’s Algonquin Provincial Park offers a quintessential Canadian camping experience and another one of the best outdoor activities in Canada as well as one of the best things to do in Ontario.

With over 7,600 square kilometers of wilderness, the park is a haven for canoeing, fishing, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can choose between drive-in campgrounds or remote backcountry sites accessible only by canoe, making it an ideal destination for both casual campers and seasoned adventurers.

7) Biking Around Canadian Cities

If nature isn’t quite your thing but you still want to enjoy outdoor activities in Canada, why not get biking? Cities like Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver are well-suited with an extensive bike infrastructure, making them perfect for cyclists.

When planning a trip to Canada, you will want to look at how to get around, especially in the cities. Biking not only keeps you healthy, but it’s a means of experiencing the city in a whole new way.

You can cycle along picturesque waterfronts, green parks, or even to nearby attractions. Most cities also have bike-sharing schemes, so it is even more convenient to get around and enjoy an active day.

8) Swimming and Water Sports

Canada’s coastlines, rivers, and lakes offer water sports activities with wonderful opportunities, and swimming is one of the best outdoor activities in Canada, especially during those warmer months.

Regardless of whether you are in Lake Ontario’s crystal waters or the Atlantic Ocean, swimming or taking part in water sports like paddleboarding, kayaking, or canoeing can maintain your level of fitness. Indoor pools are also available at some resorts and recreational facilities, ideal for a swim if you would prefer not to get into the cold water or the weather is inclement.

9) Ice Climbing in Alberta

For adrenaline seekers, ice climbing in Alberta is one of the more extreme winter outdoor activities in Canada. The frozen waterfalls of Jasper and Banff National Parks provide the perfect setting for climbers of all levels.

The Weeping Wall and Maligne Canyon are two of the most renowned spots, offering thrilling ascents with breathtaking frozen landscapes as a backdrop.

10) Cycling on Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island (PEI) is a dream destination for cyclists, thanks to its gently rolling hills, scenic coastal roads, and the famous Confederation Trail.

his 435-kilometer trail stretches across the island and follows a former railway line, offering a leisurely way to explore PEI’s charming countryside, lighthouses, and sandy beaches.

This is a charming little island, which we would recommend for your Canada bucket list but also a romantic getaway.

11) Northern Lights Viewing in the Northwest Territories

One of the most magical experiences is witnessing the Northern Lights in Canada, dance across the sky.

The Northwest Territories, particularly Yellowknife, is one of the best places in the world for aurora viewing. The clear, dark skies and minimal light pollution provide perfect conditions for this natural phenomenon, making it a must-see for visitors.

12) Wildlife Safari in Manitoba

Churchill, Manitoba, is known as the “Polar Bear Capital of the World” and is an excellent destination for wildlife enthusiasts and those looking to experience the best outdoor activities in Canada.

In addition to polar bears, visitors can see beluga whales in the summer and a variety of Arctic wildlife throughout the year. Guided tours in tundra buggies allow for safe and unforgettable encounters with these majestic creatures.

13) Surfing in Tofino

While Canada may not be the first place that comes to mind for surfing, Tofino on Vancouver Island boasts some of the best waves in North America.

Long Beach, with its consistent swells and stunning scenery, is perfect for both beginners and experienced surfers. The town itself is a laid-back surf haven with a thriving local culture and breathtaking coastal views.

14) Fishing in Saskatchewan

With its countless lakes and rivers, Saskatchewan is an angler’s paradise and another great place to experience outdoor activities in Canada.

The province offers world-class fishing for species like northern pike, walleye, and lake trout. Remote lodges and fly-in fishing camps provide unparalleled access to some of the best fishing spots in the country.

15) Zip-lining in Quebec

For a thrilling aerial adventure, zip-lining in Quebec offers breathtaking views of forests, rivers, and canyons.

Mont Tremblant and Canyon Sainte-Anne are popular spots for high-speed descents, allowing visitors to soar above some of the province’s most stunning landscapes.

So which of these exhilarating, outdoor activities are you going to try? Let us know in the comments and have a great time in Canada!

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