Canada is a vast and diverse country that offers breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. While popular destinations like Vancouver, Banff, and Toronto often steal the spotlight, there are many underrated gems that are worth exploring. Backpackers seeking unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences will find the following destinations in Canada to be true hidden treasures. So take a break from TonyBet and check them out now.
Gaspé Peninsula, Quebec
Tucked away in eastern Quebec, the Gaspé Peninsula boasts stunning coastal scenery, charming fishing villages, and the iconic Percé Rock. Hiking enthusiasts will love exploring Forillon National Park, with its rugged trails and picturesque views of the St. Lawrence River.
Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador
Located off the northeastern coast of Newfoundland, Fogo Island is a remote and artistic haven. It offers stunning landscapes, distinctive architecture, and a thriving artist community. Backpackers can immerse themselves in the local culture and take part in traditional activities like iceberg watching and cod fishing.
Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan
For a unique prairie wilderness experience, backpackers should venture to Grasslands National Park. This underrated gem offers vast expanses of untouched grasslands, dramatic badlands, and rare wildlife sightings. Visitors can camp under the starlit sky and witness awe-inspiring sunsets.
Nahanni National Park Reserve, Northwest Territories
Located in the remote wilderness of the Northwest Territories, Nahanni National Park Reserve is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Backpackers can explore its rugged canyons, towering waterfalls, and soak in the thermal springs. Canoeing down the South Nahanni River is an adventure of a lifetime.
Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia
Cape Breton Island, known for the iconic Cabot Trail, offers breathtaking coastal drives, quaint fishing villages, and vibrant Celtic culture. Hikers will find themselves immersed in the stunning scenery of Cape Breton Highlands National Park, with its dramatic cliffs and winding trails.
Tofino, British Columbia
While not entirely unknown, Tofino remains an underrated gem on Vancouver Island’s rugged west coast. It’s a paradise for surfers, nature lovers, and those seeking tranquility. Backpackers can explore Pacific Rim National Park, visit Hot Springs Cove, and indulge in local seafood delicacies.
Yoho National Park, British Columbia
Often overshadowed by its famous neighbor, Banff National Park, Yoho National Park is a hidden gem. Backpackers can explore stunning waterfalls, hike to pristine alpine lakes, and witness the magnificent Takakkaw Falls. The Burgess Shale fossil beds are a paleontological wonder worth exploring.
Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Lunenburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a charming coastal town with colorful architecture and a rich seafaring history. Backpackers can wander through its narrow streets, visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, and indulge in fresh seafood at local eateries.
Kluane National Park and Reserve, Yukon
Kluane National Park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. It offers incredible opportunities for hiking, mountaineering, and wildlife spotting. Don’t miss the chance to witness the awe-inspiring Kluane Icefields and the stunning beauty of Mount Logan, Canada’s highest peak.
St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick
Nestled along the Bay of Fundy, St. Andrews by-the-Sea is a picturesque coastal town with a rich maritime history. Visitors can explore the charming streets lined with Victorian-era architecture, visit the renowned Algonquin Resort, and embark on whale watching tours to spot majestic marine creatures.
Drumheller, Alberta
Drumheller is a small town located in the heart of the Canadian Badlands, famous for its dinosaur fossils and unique geological formations. Backpackers can explore the Royal Tyrrell Museum, hike through the otherworldly Hoodoos, and even participate in a dinosaur dig to uncover ancient artifacts.
Galiano Island, British Columbia
Situated in the Strait of Georgia, Galiano Island is a tranquil oasis known for its untouched natural beauty. Backpackers can enjoy scenic hikes, kayak along the picturesque coastline, and soak in the peaceful atmosphere of this idyllic island. Don’t forget to visit Montague Harbour Marine Provincial Park for stunning sunsets.
Manitoulin Island, Ontario
Located in Lake Huron, Manitoulin Island is the world’s largest freshwater island and a hidden gem in Ontario. Backpackers can explore its lush forests, serene lakes, and rich Indigenous culture. The island offers opportunities for hiking, camping, canoeing, and visiting historic sites such as the Ojibwe Cultural Foundation.
Dinosaur Provincial Park, Alberta
Dinosaur Provincial Park is renowned for its fossil discoveries and rugged badlands landscape. Backpackers can participate in guided fossil tours, join paleontology programs, and hike through the otherworldly terrain. The park also offers camping facilities for an immersive experience.
Fundy National Park, New Brunswick
Nestled along the Bay of Fundy, Fundy National Park is a hidden gem with diverse ecosystems and stunning coastal views. Backpackers can explore its lush forests, hike to waterfalls, and witness the highest tides in the world. The park also offers camping, kayaking, and swimming in its pristine lakes.
Haida Heritage Centre, British Columbia
Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Haida people at the Haida Heritage Centre in Skidegate, Haida Gwaii. The center showcases traditional art, totem poles, and interactive exhibits, providing insight into the vibrant history and traditions of the Haida Nation.
Îles de la Madeleine, Quebec
This archipelago is known for its stunning coastal scenery, red cliffs, and sandy beaches. Backpackers can explore the islands by bike, indulge in delicious seafood cuisine, and experience the unique Acadian culture of the region.
Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta
Bordering Montana’s Glacier National Park, Waterton Lakes National Park offers breathtaking mountain vistas, sparkling lakes, and abundant wildlife. Backpackers can hike the iconic Crypt Lake Trail, explore the Red Rock Canyon, and take a boat tour on Upper Waterton Lake for a memorable experience.
