While there are many different opinions on what makes the ideal Canadian road trip, one thing that’s for sure is that Canada has plenty to offer in the way of great scenic drives, unique roadside attractions, and diverse cultural experiences. Here are 5 of the most “classically Canadian” road-trips that boast all the great beauty that this vast country has to offer!
Trans-Canada Highway
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Over 7800 km in length, and stretching from Victoria, British Columbia, all the way to St. John’s, Newfoundland, the Trans-Canada Highway is the world’s longest national highway, and arguably, the king of classic Canadian road trips. Driving from coast to coast (and across the Prairies) allows you to get a taste of East and West Canada, and also grasp the contrast between the different extremities of Canada’s geography. Rather than being a single route, the Trans-Canada Highway is a network of routes, making it easy to plan a trip that fits your needs for length and sightseeing, if you’re not yet ready to take the big plunge from coast to coast.
Icefields Parkway, Alberta
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If you’re looking for a taste of the unique natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies, then driving the Icefields Parkway is an absolute must. At 232km in length, this drive through the Canadian Rocky Mountain Park World Heritage Site offers up awe-inspiring wilderness views, pristine lakes, unbelievable glaciers, and beautiful, broad valleys. It’s breathtaking, to say the least. Icefieldsparkway.ca suggests a 6 day 5 night self-drive journey through Calgary, Banff, Jasper, and Lake Louise.
Klondike Highway, Yukon Territories
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In the Yukon, “every road is the scenic route,” and for those who might not have had a chance to visit the Northern parts of Canada, this road trip opens you up to all of the beauty that this more remote part of our country has to offer. If you plan to visit either Dawson, or Whitehorse, there are multiple historic highways to drive within this area that give you a glimpse into the rich landscapes of the Yukon, but the Klondike Highway has to be one of the most impressive. Somewhat built upon the routes that Klondike Gold Rush prospectors would have used, it also joins Whitehorse to the Alaskan coastal town Skagwag, if you’d like to head that way as well.
Country Routes, Quebec
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While Quebec offers up some pretty cool metropolitan destinations, the real flavour of the province can be found in its countryside and natural beauty. If you’re into wine, cheese, and baked goods (who isn’t?) this is probably an excellent road trip for you. Making the drive from to Gaspesie is one route that offers up plenty to do (including farmer’s markets, great poutine, and artisinal souvenirs), but there are plenty to choose from, and Quebecoriginal.com offers an extensive guide to itineraries.
Pacific Rim Highway (BC Highway 4)
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Also on RNR:
