Destinations to explore in Canada in Winter
*This is a collaborative post
*Please note at the time of writing we are in the middle of a COVID-19 global pandemic and as such, we are not condoning or suggesting international travel during this time. That said, when the borders are open and we are authorised to travel, these would be high up on the bucket list.
Of all the countries I would love to visit, Canada has to be pretty high up on the bucketlist, particularly as I have distant family living there. Over the years I have seen so many photos and videos of all the amazingly beautiful landscape that Canada has to offer and long to be able to visit for myself one day when travel is back on the agenda.
If you are looking to visit Canada in Winter, here are some of the must visit destinations you may want to check out!
Banff National Park
Banff National Park is one of Canada’s oldest national parks and offers over 2500 square miles of serene landscapes to explore and discover.
In Winter, the alpine lakes, snow capped Moutain peaks and steaming, misty hot springs are a hikers dream! From checking out the best snowmaking bridges to cross the icy lakes, to admiring the icy blue waters looking like something straight out of Frozen’s Arendelle, Banff National Park has over 1000 miles of hikes to offer!
Lake Louise
Within Banff National Park, one lake that you can’t afford to miss is Lake Louise, known for its bright green turquoise waters surrounded by mountain peaks and a beautiful ancient chateau. Lake Louise is also home to an annual Ice Making Festival where talented artists show off stunning ice carvings and sculptures made entirely from ice!
You can also expect to get your skates on at their outdoor skating rink for a truly immersive Winter experience!
Niagra Falls
As the World’s most famous waterfalls, most people will have Niagra Falls on their bucketlist and I am no exception! Contrary to popular belief, Niagra Falls is not one massive waterfall, but actually 3 individual ones named the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and the Horse Show Falls (Canadian Falls), which range between 70 and 110 feet in height.
Whilst the falls are amazing to visit at any time of year, Winter turns the Niagra Falls into an even more magical destination, with etting close to the freezing spires and icicles, frozen ice blocks and cascades of falling ice a truly stunning sight to behold.
With the sun setting earlier and longer darker nights, it also means you get to appreciate the Niagra Falls illuminations for much longer in the Winter months and visit them earlier in the evening which is ideal if you have younger children.
Yellowknife
Located around 400km from the Arctic Circle and with long nights and mostly clear skies, Yellowknife is the best place in the World to see the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). These natural colourful light displays are simply dazzling. I was lucky enough to catch a small glimpse when I visited Iceland – however, I would love to get a better view and try and capture some of the dazzling colours on camera!
Vancouver
If you are a lover of the great outdoors, why not embrace some of Canada’s favourite outdoor sports in Vancouver? From the best crossbow archery to walking trails, cycling routes, ski slopes and even hikes and treks in the wilderness; there is something for everyone in Vancouver. It is also home to the largest Port in Canada. It’s clear to see why Vancouver attracts around 15 million tourists every single year (normally at least!)
