Canada’s national parks offer dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and outdoor experiences that reward careful planning.
With visitor numbers increasing and infrastructure upgrades rolling out across many parks, planning ahead is the best way to enjoy scenic trails, backcountry solitude, and cultural encounters without adding stress to fragile ecosystems.
Plan ahead: passes, reservations and access
Parks across the country often require a park pass or reservations for popular campgrounds and day-use areas. Booking early is especially important for campgrounds, guided tours, and shuttle services that help reduce vehicle congestion. Many parks now offer online booking windows and timed-entry systems to manage crowds; check park websites before you travel to avoid disappointment. Consider weekday or shoulder-season visits for calmer conditions and lower lodging costs.
Top experiences to prioritize
– Rocky Mountain panoramas: Iconic mountain drives and alpine hikes reward visitors with dramatic vistas and glaciers. Popular trails range from short viewpoints to multi-day treks.
– Coastal adventures: East and west coast parks feature tidal wonders, sea stacks, and rugged shorelines—perfect for tidepooling, kayaking, and whale watching.
– Boreal and northern escapes: Vast boreal forests and northern parks offer excellent opportunities for canoeing, birding, and viewing the night sky in low-light conditions.
– Cultural and geological highlights: Many parks conserve Indigenous heritage sites and unique geological formations; guided cultural experiences add depth to any visit.
Responsible travel tips (make these habits)
– Respect wildlife: Observe from a distance, store food securely, and follow park instructions for encounters with bears or other large animals. Feeding wildlife is prohibited and harmful.
– Practice Leave No Trace: Pack out what you bring, camp on durable surfaces, and minimize campfire impacts where fires are permitted.
– Stay on trail: Protect fragile plant communities and reduce erosion by sticking to marked routes.
– Support local and Indigenous businesses: Book local guides, stay at community-run accommodations, and purchase Indigenous-made arts and experiences where available.
– Reduce vehicle impact: Use park shuttles, carpool, or combine stops to minimize emissions and parking pressure.
Backcountry and safety essentials
If heading off-trail or into the backcountry, register your trip with park authorities, carry proper navigation tools, and prepare for rapidly changing weather. A basic emergency kit, extra food, a map and compass (or reliable GPS), and knowledge of wildlife safety basics are non-negotiable.
Consider guided trips for complex routes or unfamiliar terrain.
Accessibility and alternative ways to experience parks
Many parks have improved accessible trails, visitor centres, and paved viewpoints. For those unable to trek long distances, scenic drives, accessible boardwalks, and virtual resources offered by park organizations provide meaningful ways to connect with nature.
City-based wildlife preserves and regional parks also offer shorter, family-friendly nature experiences closer to urban centres.
Keep these tips in mind when planning a park visit: book ahead, travel respectfully, and prioritize safety. With thoughtful planning, Canada’s parks deliver unforgettable scenery and the chance to connect with landscapes that have shaped communities for millennia.