The Top 7 Unique Canadian Travel Experiences To Add To Your Bucket List
When you think of Canada, what do you think of? Is it the ultra-polite people, delicious poutine or beer-loving hockey fans? What you may not know is that Canada is quickly making its way to the top of many travelers' bucket lists! With vibrant communities, breathtaking scenery, and travel experiences you won’t be able to enjoy anywhere else in the world, it’s time to consider embarking on an unforgettable adventure to Canada! To help you plan your trip, here’s our list of the top seven uniquely Canadian travel experiences you don’t want to miss.
1. catch a glimpse of the northern lights
The Aurora Borealis or northern lights, are a naturally occurring astronomical phenomenon where sheets of vivid colored light can be seen across the night sky. They are known for being elusive but Northern Canada is actually one of the best places to view them. Some of the best places to see the Aurora Borealis are remote and that means traveling far away from the city centers.
Dawson City is located in the Yukon and even though it’s a small community, its far northern latitude and minimal light pollution make it the ideal place to go. The northern lights can be seen here year-round and because of its remote location, you can see the lights from anywhere in town. If you want to elevate your experience, book a tour or head up to Midnight Dome and take in the beauty of the lights under the warmth of a blanket.
2. watch a stampede in the wild west
Are you ready to wrangle in your wanderlust? All across western Canada, rodeos and stampedes are still happening and draw in more visitors than ever! The Calgary Stampede is one of Canada’s largest festivals and has been happening since 1912. Here, you’ll get to witness the world's largest rodeo where fierce competitors go head-to-head in bull riding, barrel racing, steer wrestling and bareback riding events. There are also many smaller stampedes worth visiting such as the Williams Lake Stampede, the Mary Reimer Memorial Rodeo in Hinton, Alberta, and the Fort St. John Rodeo.
Giddy up, the fun awaits!
3. try ice climbing in the beautiful Canadian Rockies
Canmore, Alberta is nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains and just a brief drive to Banff. This area is well known for being an adventure lover's paradise and has outdoor activities that range from skiing and hiking to canoeing and mountain biking. One of the most unique experiences offered in the region is ice climbing. Ice climbing is a thrilling vertical dance with frozen waterfalls, where adventurers can channel their inner Spider-Man to conquer heights with ice axes. For those seeking an adrenaline-fueled challenge and a breathtaking fusion of physicality and natural beauty, ice climbing offers an unparalleled rush and a unique perspective of the stunning Canadian Rockies.
4. discover dinosaur fossils just outside Calgary
Just two hours east of Calgary is Dinosaur Provincial Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its collection of dinosaur fossils. More than 500 fossils have been unearthed at this park and it’s the sheer number of fossils discovered and undiscovered that makes it such a unique place to visit. Many visitors go here to aid in the hunt for fossils and take in the amazing landscape which will make you feel like you’ve been transported back into an age where dinosaurs roamed the earth! Whether you’re traveling with dinosaur-obsessed kids or you’re simply captivated by the history of this era, this experience is unforgettable!
5. immerse yourself in Indigenous culture
In Canada, there are many opportunities to experience and learn about Indigenous culture and practices. Wanuskewin Heritage Park sits above Opimihaw Creek and the South Saskatchewan River near Saskatoon, along the sweeping prairies of Saskatchewan.
This historic site offers an immersive experience on the journey towards truth and reconciliation while teaching visitors about the history of the land and the evolving cultures of the Northern Plains Indigenous Peoples. Visitors are invited to enjoy a self-guided walking tour of the trails, experience a TiPi Sleepover, and celebrate Indigenous art. Or, if you’re a fan of culinary experiences, you will want to book their Han Wi Dinner, which focuses on celebrating the people, ingredients and culture of the Northern Plains.
6. explore the natural wonders of Canada’s West Coast
Sitting on the farthest western point of Canada, Vancouver Island is a hidden gem off the coast of British Columbia and it boasts awe-inspiring beauty that remains undiscovered by many. This captivating island is a haven of natural wonders, where pristine beaches, dense rainforests, and snow-capped mountains converge in breathtaking harmony. From exploring the rugged coastline and encountering diverse wildlife to immersing oneself in the vibrant arts and culinary scene, there are many reasons why this place is quickly becoming known as one of the most beautiful locations in Canada.
Once you’ve visited Vancouver Island, be sure to add Haida Gwaii to your itinerary! This remote BC island is accessible by ferry or air and is commonly referred to as “the Galapagos of the North”. It’s home to the Haida First Nations people and includes over 150 islands in total. Not only this, but it’s home to 200 species of birds and the most diverse range of wildlife in the country. Orcas can be seen in the waters all year round, humpback whales can be observed in February until the fall, and gray whales call the waters of Haida Gwaii home from March to June. Seeing whales breach from the waters is an unforgettable experience you don’t want to miss so make sure you book your whale-watching tour in advance!
7. Try dog sledding in the Yukon
The great white North is known for being a little chilly, but as long as you bundle up there are so many amazing adventures to enjoy in the winter months. If you’re searching for one of the most unique experiences in Canada, dog sledding in the Yukon is a must. Dog sledding is a classic mode of transportation in the north and one of the best parts is the team of adorable and friendly dogs you get to spend time with! While you learn about driving the sled and how to communicate with the dogs, you’ll also get to enjoy the scenery as you speed through snow-capped trees. From half-day trips to multi-day experiences, there is a tour available that suits your interests!
These are just seven of the top things you can do in Canada along your travels, but you could truly spend an entire lifetime enjoying the vibrant culture and scenery in this country. At Coast Hotels, we’re proud to be your home away from home while you travel through Canada. Check out our various Canadian locations and happy travels, eh!