Ready to discover a hidden corner of Québec with endless boreal forest, rolling hills, peaceful lakes, star-filled skies, long summer days and approachable small cities, all with a hint of French Canadian charm? Let me introduce you to the uncrowded Abitibi region in Western Québec.
Uncrowded, scenic and rich in natural wonders, we rank the Mingan Archipelago as one of the most special places in Canada. Best known for its amazing limestone monoliths, Mingan also hosts colonies of threatened shorebirds (and puffins!), historic lighthouses and unusual Arctic-alpine plants. This guide shares everything you need to know to plan a trip.
Tucked against Québec’s western border, Témiscamingue is a small yet underrated area that flies under the radar of most travellers. Its compact size makes it perfect for a relaxed road trip, with plenty of time to hike, paddle and discover welcoming small towns along the way.
Did you know that there are basalt columns in British Columbia? The Aberdeen Columns near Vernon are a great example and a must see for beyond the beaten path enthusiasts. While the Aberdeen Columns are not the only examples of this type of volcanic rock in BC, they are one of the most accessible. Here are the details you need to go.
In the mood for a BC road trip but want to go off the beaten path a little? This Nelson to Revelstoke road trip may be the adventure you’re looking for! Combining beautiful lake scenery, dramatic waterfalls, forested valleys, rugged mountains and gold mining history, this itinerary is both interesting and visually compelling.
Secluded but still accessible, Sointula is a special place in Queen Charlotte Strait, just off the coast of Northeast Vancouver Island. Discover the best things to do in Sointula, a peaceful and beautiful off the beaten path island destination.
Discover the best things to do in Keremeos, an agricultural community tucked away in BC’s Similkameen Valley. A common stop for travellers driving between Vancouver and the Okanagan Valley, Keremeos has more to offer than the fruit stands that line the highway.
British Columbia’s beautiful southern Okanagan Valley has a lot to offer residents and visitors all year round. Discover 80+ amazing things to do, as recommended by a local, to help you have the BEST visit!
Hidden within the rugged landscapes of Monashee Provincial Park, Little Peters Lake and Big Peters Lake showcase a pristine subalpine environment. The lakes reflect the surrounding peaks, bright wildflowers bloom in the meadows and marmots chirp in the rockpiles. From here, it is possible to explore further into the alpine and summit the park’s most prominent peak (Mount Fosthall, 2679m).
For a thrilling, unpredictable and memorable whitewater rafting experience, head just beyond the beaten path to REO Rafting Resort near Boston Bar, British Columbia. REO is the only rafting company operating on the jade-coloured Nahatlatch River, a destination that stands out for its exciting, continuous wild water action yet is suitable even for first-time rafters.
Boasting as many as 41 spectacular waterfalls, Wells Gray Provincial Park is a must-see destination for waterfall chasers, nature lovers and adventure seekers everywhere. From the iconic Helmcken Falls and wide Dawson Falls to lesser-known gems, each cascade is uniquely beautiful.
Uncover the essence of BC’s beautiful Salish Sea on a Coastal Circle Route road trip, taking in both Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast. The Coastal Circle Route is an ideal road trip for anyone looking for a satisfying and scenic driving loop located slightly off the beaten path.
Travel from Vancouver Island’s east coast to west through its mountainous core, alongside huge lakes and waterfalls on a Campbell River to Gold River road trip. The 100km drive to the terminus of Highway 28 beckons adventurous travellers to disconnect and revel in the beauty of nature, with no phone signal or Wi-Fi in sight.
Shippagan is an underrated destination for a relaxing coastal escape in the Maritimes. Discover the best things to do in this beautiful Acadian fishing town, also JR’s hometown
Perched on the edge of the ocean and endless wilderness, Campbell River is a hotspot for outdoor recreation. It’s one of our favourite cities in BC! Here are 27+ ideas of things to do in Campbell River, including our ultimate top ten activities.
Most visitors to Vancouver Island see only Tofino and Victoria – great combination – but Vancouver Island has MUCH more to offer! Experience the magnificence of Vancouver Island without the crowds on these three road trip itineraries.
For a fun, scenic and relaxing paddle adventure in British Columbia’s Kootenay Rockies region, look no further than the Invermere to Radium float. This lazy novice-friendly 17km long paddle trip takes around four hours to complete and features spectacular mountain vistas and wildlife watching opportunities.
As winter approaches, Boundary Country’s golden hills turn white and beckon adventurous travellers to explore. Three characterful ski hills occupy the mountains; one of BC’s biggest and also one of the smallest. While we already knew that that Boundary had plenty to offer in both summer and fall, we returned in winter to see if the coldest season could deliver as well (yes!)
Looking for an off the beaten path driving adventure in Nova Scotia? Let me introduce you to a beautiful lesser known route – the Cape George Scenic Drive, also known as the ‘Mini Cabot Trail.’ This picturesque driving route follows the edge of a triangular shaped piece of land that juts into the Northumberland Strait. The curving path passes several lighthouses, rocky coves, working wharfs, tall rugged cliffs, small rural communities and a number of golden sand beaches.
Two rail lines once crossed the length of British Columbia’s Boundary Country – the Kettle Valley Railway (KVR) and the Columbia and Western (C&W). Now converted into multi-use paths, the KVR and C&W connect in the town of Midway to provide an uninterrupted 170km hiking and biking route, also part of the Trans Canada Trail.