Hidden gems among national parks to discover

Ignore the crowded paths of Banff and Jasper — Canada has a collection of national parks that remain largely unnoticed yet offer stunning landscapes. These locations are ideal if you’re seeking some wilderness away from the selfie sticks.

  • Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan: Imagine vast open areas, undulating prairies, and expansive skies that may leave you questioning your location on Earth. This park is fantastic for observing bison, prairie dogs, and enjoying a spectacular sunset. If stargazing is your thing, it boasts one of North America’s darkest skies — don’t forget a flashlight and your best night vision.
  • Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador: This park is a geological marvel featuring fjords, steep cliffs, and ancient rock formations that will leave you speechless. Think of it as Tasmania’s rugged west coast, but with moose instead of wombats. The hiking here is exceptional, especially the Gros Morne Mountain trail — a genuine leg workout with breathtaking views.
  • Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta: Located right at the US border, this park is like Banff’s more relaxed sibling. You’ll find turquoise lakes, meadows bursting with wildflowers, and a fair chance of spotting bears (just remember, no hugging). It’s a fantastic location for kayaking, hiking, or simply enjoying the tranquility.
  • Thaidene Nëné National Park Reserve, Northwest Territories: For those truly wanting to escape, this secluded park is the place to be. Accessible only by floatplane or boat, it’s completely off-grid. Anticipate crystal-clear lakes, ancient boreal forest, and a level of solitude that helps you forget all about emails. It’s raw, wild, and simply enchanting.

“Canada’s concealed parks are akin to hidden surf spots — pristine, wild, and far preferable without the throngs.”

Delightful small towns less traveled

If you’re after that small-town allure without the tourist lines, Canada offers an array of charming little places that’ll make you feel like you’ve stepped into a postcard. These towns may be off the radar, but they excel in character, local flavors, and that relaxed vibe Australians adore.

  • Lunenburg, Nova Scotia: This vibrant harbor town seems tailor-made for Instagram, yet it’s the real McCoy — a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with historical wooden buildings and charming maritime tales. Walk along the waterfront, indulge in fresh lobster rolls, and chat with the locals. It’s like a refreshing breeze for your spirit.
  • Nelson, British Columbia: Nestled in the Selkirk Mountains, Nelson is a bohemian paradise where vintage stores, art galleries, and craft breweries abound. It carries a hint of Byron Bay’s vibe, but with winter snow and summer mountain biking. The locals are welcoming, the coffee is strong, and the vistas? Outstanding.
  • Baie-Saint-Paul, Quebec: This artistic gem in Charlevoix is where the mountains embrace the St. Lawrence River. Picture cobblestone pathways, French charm, and abundant galleries. If you love cheese, wine, and a sprinkle of culture, this town is a treasure. Bonus points for being the birthplace of Cirque du Soleil — talk about impressive origins.
  • Tofino, British Columbia: Alright, surfers — this one’s for you. Tofino is a relaxed coastal town on Vancouver Island known for its wild beaches, rainforest trails, and waves that will have you wishing for your board. It possesses that end-of-the-road charm, and the seafood chowder here could bring tears of joy.
  • Dawson City, Yukon: Travel back to the gold rush days in this frontier town where the roads are still dirt, and saloons have swinging doors like it’s 1898. Quirky, isolated, and full of personality, Dawson boasts the midnight sun in summer and the northern lights in winter. And yes, you can sip a cocktail featuring a real human toe — don’t inquire, just look it up.

“These towns are like discovering a perfect wave with no one else around — rare, beautiful, and undeniably worth the journey.”