Canada’s best national parks for summer adventures

Banff National Park, Alberta

The jewel of the Canadian Rockies and a must-visit for summer visitors, Banff is one of the most popular of all Canada’s national parks. Its turquoise lakes, such as Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, are world-famous for their striking colours, are best seen during the warmer months when the ice has melted. The park offers over 1,600 kilometres of hiking trails, ranging from easy walks like Johnston Canyon to challenging climbs such as the Plain of Six Glaciers. For a different perspective, paddle across Lake Minnewanka or take a gondola ride up Sulphur Mountain for panoramic views. Wildlife is abundant here, so keep an eye out for elk, bears, and mountain goats. The Icefields Parkway, connecting Banff to Jasper, is one of the most scenic drives in the world, with stops like Bow Lake and Peyto Lake offering breathtaking photo opportunities.

Getting there: Fly from the UK to Calgary International Airport. Banff is a 90-minute drive from Calgary, with shuttle services also available.

Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland & Labrador

This UNESCO World Heritage Site and geological wonder is incredibly special. Its unique landscapes include the Tablelands, where the Earth’s mantle is exposed, and the fjord-like Western Brook Pond, best explored on a boat tour. Summer is ideal for hiking, with trails like Gros Morne Mountain offering sweeping views of the park. The park is also a haven for birdwatchers and photographers, with its dramatic cliffs and serene beaches. Local communities around the park add to the experience, offering warm hospitality and a taste of Newfoundland’s traditions.

Getting there: Fly to Deer Lake Regional Airport via Toronto. The park is a 30-minute drive from Deer Lake, with car rentals readily available. 

Cape Breton Highlands National Park, Nova Scotia

This national park offers a stunning blend of ocean and highland scenery, with the Cabot Trail known for being one of the most scenic drives in the world. Summer is the perfect time to hike the Skyline Trail, where you might spot moose, bald eagles, or even whales in the waters below. The park’s beaches, such as Ingonish Beach, are ideal for a refreshing dip in the heat, while its forested trails provide shaded escapes from the summer sun. The local Acadian and Gaelic communities add a cultural richness to the area that is well worth exploring, with music, food, and festivals that celebrate their heritage.

Getting there: Fly to Halifax Stanfield International Airport then it’s a four-hour drive to the park. Guided tours and bike rentals are available for those looking to explore the park in more depth.