If you’re new to BC, it can be tricky to work out how the provincial and national park camping system works. This post explains when and how to reserve provincial and national park campgrounds, plus tips and advice for securing a spot!
British Columbia is a hiker’s paradise. From the snow capped peaks of the Rocky Mountains to the lush forests of Vancouver Island, there are endless day hiking trails to explore across the province. Discover our all time favourite day hiking trails in British Columbia
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 recently returned in winter to see if the coldest season could deliver as well (yes!)
If you have only one chance (and two weeks) to explore Western Canada, this is the road trip for you. As well as including all of the ‘must sees,’ this two week Western Canada road trip itinerary many of the contrasting landscapes that make this region so unique. Think temperate rainforest, desert and mountains, all in one road trip!
As rewarding as it is challenging, the Top of the Giant Trail offers an unique all day hiking experience in northwestern Ontario. The path ascends the ‘knees’ of the Sleeping Giant, an impressive formation of volcanic rock rising above beautiful Lake Superior, revealing wide ranging vistas of the water as well as the parks’ boreal forest and a deep natural gorge.
Giant’s Head Mountain, Summerland, is one of our favourite quick hikes (3.2km return) in southern British Columbia, Canada. It’s a workout with an awesome payoff – a must try when visiting the area!
Looking for the perfect gift for a paddler? As avid paddlers and ex-outdoor store managers we have you covered! Here are our top picks for the best gifts for hikers, with budget, midrange and luxury options.
Mount Assiniboine is a jewel in the crown of the Canadian Rockies and a hiker’s dream. This comprehensive hiking guide will explain everything you need to know about planning a backpacking trip to this magnificent provincial park
The Rockwall Trail in Kootenay National Park is, without a doubt, one of the best backpacking trips in the Canadian Rockies. The highlight of the 54km long path is the chance to walk alongside the huge limestone cliff that lends its name to the trail. But that’s just the beginning of the beauty found on this spectacular backpacking route.
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.
Stretching 1,123km along the formidable Rockies, the Great Divide Trail is Canada’s ultimate long distance hiking adventure. Discover a brief history of the trail, a route rundown and essential planning info as well as a summary of our own GDT section hike
The mountains of British Columbia become even more breathtaking in autumn, when a golden glow appears in the alpine meadows. This magical display of colour is provided by larch trees, which turn a vibrant yellow before shedding their needles for the winter. This post covers everything you need to know about larch season in BC, including the best places to see larch trees, what to bring and when to plan a trip.
Grasslands National Park is one of the most unique national parks in Canada and yet is also one of the quietest. We left the park kicking ourselves that we hadn’t visited more of Saskatchewan sooner. Don’t do the same – put Grasslands National Park on your priority list and get ready to be amazed.
Crossing Canada is the road trip of a lifetime, with 2000km of the journey taking place in Ontario. One of the most scenic (and direct) routes is Highway 17, part of the Trans Canada. To see the best of Ontario’s natural beauty as you travel, plan to stop at provincial parks. Here are our favourites!
Featuring more than 2000 lakes and 500 portages, Ontario’s Quetico Provincial Park is a canoe tripping paradise. Paddlers have the ultimate freedom to plan their own route through 1.2 acres of wilderness, choosing a trip length and preferred style to suit, camping at 2,200+ rustic campsites along the way. Canoeing doesn’t get much better than this!
Skaha Bluffs Provincial Park is one of the best places to climb in Canada with over 1000 climbs found in three canyons. Complete climbing guide written by a Penticton local with recommended climbs and insider tips.
Québec is a supremely underrated hiking destination. The varied landscape of mountains, rugged coast and dense pine forests on Québec’s Gaspé Peninsula, in particular, is the perfect mix for great hiking opportunities. Here are six fast and fun Gaspesie, Quebec trails to try out!
Backpacking is all about balance – keeping your pack weight low while still ensuring you have everything you need to be self sufficient and comfortable in the backcountry. This post features a comprehensive multi-day packing guide detailing every single item to bring on a short backpacking trip.
There’s nothing quite like walking through a rainbow coloured field of alpine wildflowers in midsummer. Experience this yourself on the approachable Trophy Meadows Trail in Wells Gray Provincial Park. With the parking lot being situated at 1700m, most of the elevation is gained before even stepping onto the trail.