Lonely Planet Canada: Country Guide (Travel Guide)

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Dash through Dangerous Lagoon – an underwater tunnel and home to the longest moving sidewalk in North America – where you can experience a truly immersive underwater-like experience, and snap shark selfies as you explore under the sea. Then, take a ride to the top of the CN Tower, found right next door, where you can take in views of Toronto from 553 metres (1,814 ft) in the sky. You can take guided tours or go it alone – just be sure to do your homework before you head out. There’s also no better place on earth than the Yukon for stargazing. Head out of town and see the aurora borealis from mid-August to mid-April from almost anywhere – no special glasses or binoculars needed, you just have to look up. 6. Calgary Bow River, Alberta This lesser-known sojourn across the unheralded wilds of central British Columbia is little frequented by the international set. The exception is those on organized day trips from Jasper, who'll join the train for the first three hours as far as McBride in British Columbia. From Kinney Lake, the longer, harder Kinney Lake to Berg Lake trail covers 23km (14 miles), with seven camping areas along the way, but the route is currently closed due to flood damage and is set to re-open in 2023. Situated in the stunning Mount Robson Provincial Park, the trailhead for this easy round-trip hike to gorgeous Kinney Lake lies 3km (1.9 miles) north of the Mt Robson Visitor Centre.

Don’t miss some of the special activities offered on some services, from the heritage interpretations talks (on prairies, potash etc) to beer tastings. Ferrying around Canada may not the most efficient method of transport, but can often be quite an enjoyable way to get to specific areas like Victoria, BC or St John’s, Newfoundland. In Toronto, you can get to the islands by ferry – time it right for one of the most gorgeous sunset views of the city. The train offers three different classes: Economy (seat only), Sleeper Plus (sleeping berth) and Prestige (private compartment). In contrast to planes, reclining seats are large with plenty of legroom; bathrooms are invariably well-scrubbed, and musicians, presenters and wine tastings break up the journey. If you’re focusing on a city-centric stay, consider getting to know the local transit system. Public transportation is generally safe and easily accessible, and you’ll save substantially on parking and daily car rental fees. From here, it’s vista overload: from water (the train crosses the wide Miramichi River, famous for its Atlantic salmon); to the Sugarloaf Mountain, an ancient volcano; then on to quaint Acadian communities that fly blue-and-red flags reflecting their French roots. And speaking of colors, fall is a stunning time to make this trip when the leaves turn rich shades of red, gold and yellow.July and August are busier months as the warmer weather and summer holidays bring an influx of visitors, and weekdays often offer lower airfares than weekend dates. Find a more affordable arrival airport The Grizzly Lake Trail is located in Tombstone Territorial Park, accessible via the Dempster Highway (a dirt road), and the views of the Grizzly Valley along the route will linger long in your memory. Another Montréal institution to prioritize is Schwartz’s. For over 90 years, the famous deli has been sandwiching mountains of 10-day-marinated smoked meat between two slices of rye bread for the Montréal masses. Seeing the northern lights is always an awe-inspiring experience. While the celestial spectacle can be spotted as far south as Banff, the most epic display is undoubtedly found in the “Great White North.” On clear nights between mid-August to mid-April, you can catch the light show all over the Yukon, with the most optimal viewing found outside the capital city of Whitehorse. In the east, fall foliage can last well into November while, in the west, wet and windy weather has led to a growing interest in storm-watching, particularly on Vancouver Island.

The Northern Lights Wolf Centre, located in Golden, BC, is a great destination for wildlife lovers, where you can learn about wolves and watch them roam free in their natural habitat. miles) to Lake Agnes round-trip; 10km (6.2 miles) to the Big Beehive round-trip; 2–4½ hours, moderate

Accommodations can be expensive but you can find great food for a reasonable price, and exploring by transit, bike or foot will help you save on inter-country flights or car rental fees. Known for its famous waterfalls that go by the same name, the Canadian city of Niagara Falls has much more to offer than riveting views of rushing rapids. Sometimes selecting an arrival airport that’s located just outside of the city center can result in a more cost-friendly flight. For example, while Toronto’s Pearson Airport is the major international airport in the city, congestion and higher fees can be a factor. With more than half of the residents that make up Toronto’s 158 neighborhoods hailing from other countries – the city’s 7500 restaurants are arguably the most diverse in the world. In the absence of a clearly identifiable Canadian cuisine, collaboration and invention prevail in the kitchens of immigrant mom-and-pop shops and Michelin-starred celebrity chefs alike. Cultural insightsgive you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, cuisine, politics

Look for bears, elk, coyotes, sheep, wolves, and moose, as you explore the peaks and valleys of Jasper National Park by car and by foot, all while your tour guide – a member of the Metis Nation – brings the mountains and animals to life through engaging storytelling that connects past with present. 11. Au Diable Vert, Québec Québec's capital is more than 400 years old, and its ancient stone walls, glinting spired cathedrals and jazz-filled corner cafes suffuse it with atmosphere, romance, melancholy, eccentricity and intrigue on par with any European city. The best way to soak it all up is to walk the old town's labyrinth of lanes and get lost amid the street performers and cozy inns, stopping every so often for a café au lait and flaky pastry. The trail is well-signposted and fastidiously mapped. To complete the whole trail, you’ll need to follow a couple of interconnecting paths along quiet roads, passing several attractive beaches on the way. Canadian trains qualify as slow travel. Don’t expect Japanese bullet trains or French TGVs. Passenger trains in Canada defer to freight, so you'll often spend 30 minutes or more waiting in a siding for another train to pass.The kids are sure to love the play spaces and toy shops found in the two-story Kids Market and the expansive spray park found up the road is a must on hot summer days. Then hop on an Aquabus False Creek Ferry and explore the stops found along the surrounding coastline while you take in city views from the water. 9. Stanley Park, British Columbia Equally as captivating as Lake Louise is nearby Moraine Lake, set in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Open from May to October, it also attracts a lot of tourists – a peaceful sunrise visit avoids the crowds. Avid hikers can take in the glistening glacial waters and snow-capped peaks from the surrounding strenuous trails, and unwind afterward in a natural steaming bath at one of several nearby hot springs. 15. Hit the slopes in Whistler Two compelling attractions make this the most popular hike at Lake Louise in Banff National Park. First up is the historic Lake Agnes Teahouse, where hikers have been refueling since 1901. It's a supremely atmospheric spot to break for tea, sandwiches and baked goods at the 3.4km (2.1-mile) mark. Touring class, including all meals, staff commentaries and access to a panoramic car, only runs from June through September. In the off-peak months (ie, the ones without touring class availability), Economy passengers have access to the sightseeing lounge with swivel chairs.

Planning tip: Make time to refuel at Granville Island Public Market, where locals and visitors dine at world-class gourmet food stalls while admiring eclectic art and tranquil harbor views.Yes! Offering outdoor adventures fit for all ages, safe cities, and friendly faces in every region, Canada makes for an unforgettable family vacation destination.