This month, we’re celebrating the grand tradition of the Springtime road trip. This is an especially wonderful subject for all Canadians out there. While Canada’s Spring is admittedly a little colder and shorter than most, we certainly make up for it in our many scenic drives. In just about every area of this great country you’ll be able to find a nice long road and an incredible view to soak in. to set out on the road to enjoy some of the nation’s best roadways, Spring is a great and highly underrated time for such an activity. The air is getting warmer, we get some extra hours of daylight and we get to experience the (very) gradual change of season. So secure your seat belts, check your mirrors and drive safe as you explore some of the best scenic drives in Canada.
Sea to Sky Highway, BC
The Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) connects from Vancouver to just north of Whistler so you can imagine all the sights you can take in on this 150km drive. From mountain ranges to ocean view, from river to fjords, this is one of the best two hours you can spend in BC. There’s also plenty of places worth stopping along the way with beautiful glassy lakes that look out amongst the towering mountains in the backdrop. Hope for a clear day and go back if you don’t get one on your first try.
Icefields Parkway, Alberta
Looking to get an up close feel for how massive the Rockies actually are? This is the route that will do the trick. Running parallel to the Continental Divide along the BC/Alberta boundary, this picturesque route gives you some amazing sights between the mountain valleys and glaciers, and providing you with endless opportunities to fill that photo album.
Gaspésie Tour, Quebec
If you pick the right time of year to take in this legendary scenic drive, you may want to consider treating yourself to a convertible. The route loops around the huge Gaspé Peninsula giving you the opportunity to take in the amazing fresh sea air as you look out at the rugged sea cliffs and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Whether or not you’re able to complete the entire 1200 km trail, it’s a beautiful drive to take in.
Township of Muskoka Lakes, Ontario
Muskoka is known to be quite the tourist destination in the summer months as it is the heart of Ontario’s cottage country. But even if you’re just up for a day trip, you can appreciate the are with this breezy drive. You can take in the history of the are while enjoying the sights of the beautiful natural life that’s been allowed to flourish. After a couple hours in the car, you may start looking for available rentals.
The Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
Considered by many to be THE great Canadian scenic roadway. Named for explorer John Cabot, the nearly 300km route runs along the coast and up the elevated landscape of Cape Breton. It dips and rises frequently throughout the journey, offering driver’s something new around every corner. A peaceful drive surrounded by trees at one moment, then high above looking our from the unobstructed view of the Atlantic. A must-drive for all Canadians.
Fundy Coastal Drive, New Brunswick
Time this coastal drive between Nova Scotia and New Brunswick properly. The Bay of Fundy is home to the highest tides in the world. And yet if your miss the high tide, you may be treated to the exposed red sandstone lining the shore. Either way, it’s a fine drive for possible what-sightings.
Viking Trail, Newfoundland
A best kept secret of our country (and perhaps the world?). This nearly 450km drive along the west coast of Newfoundland, towards Southern Labrador this is a trail steeped in rich historical significance. Along the drive, you’ll be able to stop in and enjoy various roadside attractions detailing the past explorations of the Vikings. But if you’re just looking to take in the sights, there’s plenty to love there as well, with ice bergs floating off the coast and landscape’s that will make you forget you’re in Canada.
What’s your favourite scenic drive in Canada?
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