Your Next Great Road Trip Stop is Hiding in Plain Sight

Western and Northern Canada: mountains, coastlines and remote beauty 

Devon Voyageur Park 

AB – Town of Devon – Voyageur Park, Photo credit: Jennifer Mahon

Near: Devon, Alberta
Why Stop? Right off Highway 60, this scenic park along the North Saskatchewan River offers a quick but rewarding break from driving. Follow the Town of Devon trail before climbing the Legs of Fire stairs for an epic panoramic view. 

Banff National Park 

AB – Banff National Park, Town of Banff, Photo credit: Jennifer Mahon

Near: Banff National Park, Alberta
Why Stop? While the Icefields Parkway is one of the most spectacular drives in the world, the Trans Canada Trail passes through the Town of Banff, offering a perfect opportunity to stretch your legs. Stop at Cave and Basin National Historic Site, the birthplace of Canada’s national parks system, where a short, picturesque walk along the Bow River takes you to the historic thermal springs. 

Squamish

BC – Sea to Sky Trail (Pemberton). International Trails Day | Trail Care event. Photo Credit: Brent Harrewyn.

Near: Vancouver and Whistler, British Columbia
Why Stop? Driving the legendary Sea-to-Sky Highway? Take a break at Sea to Sky Trail in Squamish for a short walk with jaw-dropping mountain and ocean views.

Fernie

Photo credit:  Heather Ogg

Near: Crowsnest Highway (BC-3) in southeastern British Columbia
Why Stop? Get some fresh air in the City of Fernie’s Annex Park, a peaceful riverside walk just minutes from downtown. Watch for wildlife along the Elk River and soak in the mountainous landscapes before continuing your drive.

Buffalo Pound Provincial Park

SK – Buffalo Pound Provincial Park. Photo credit: Jennifer Mahon.

Near: Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan
Why Stop? With rolling hills, lakeside views and prairie beauty at its finest, this quiet stop along the Trans Canada Trail is perfect for a nature break.

Riding Mountain National Park

Near: Highway 10, Manitoba
Why Stop? A hidden gem in the Manitoba wilderness, this park offers brief yet beautiful hikes right off the road. Take the Rossburn Subdivision Trail, and keep an eye out for bison and elk as you get your steps in.

Dawson City

Near: Dawson City, Yukon
Why Stop? Before tackling the legendary Dempster Highway, take a break along  Dawson City Trails, a section of the Trans Canada Trail with plenty of character. Walk along the boardwalk-lined streets of this historic Gold Rush town for stunning views of the Yukon River. 

Norman Wells Trail

Near: Norman Wells, Northwest Territories
Why Stop? For those seeking to connect with Canada’s northern wilderness during a short stop, the Norman Wells Trail offers a fascinating insight into the area’s rich history. For experienced hikers who are staying longer, the historic and extreme CANOL Heritage Trail is also a must.

Central Canada: lakes, forests and iconic trails

Voyageur Trail – Group of Seven Trail 

ON – Voyageur Trail – Nipigon River – July 2023

Near: Lake Superior, Ontario
Why Stop? Inspired by Canada’s iconic Group of Seven painters, this section of the Voyageur Trail offers a short but inspiring walk through rugged landscapes that fuelled their masterpieces. 

Le Corridor des Cheminots 

Near: Quebec City, Quebec
Why Stop? A converted rail trail, Le Corridor des Cheminots runs through Quebec City, combining a smooth and charming walk with a bit of local history. Just outside the city, visit Wendake, home to the Hôtel-Musée Premiers Nations, where you can explore Indigenous history, culture and art while enjoying beautiful walking paths along the Saint-Charles River.

Atlantic Canada: coastal views and charming towns

Parlee Beach, Shediac

Near: Highway 15, New Brunswick
Why Stop? Instead of a highway rest stop, take a quick detour to Parlee Beach for soft sand, ocean views and fresh sea air. Perfect for a quick recharge!

Celtic Shores Coastal Trail

NS – Celtic Shores Coastal Trail

Near: Cabot Trail, Nova Scotia
Why Stop? Driving the Cabot Trail? The Celtic Shores Coastal Trail offers walks with breathtaking ocean views — perfect for a quick leg stretch.

Tignish

PEI – Confederation Trail

Near: North Cape, Prince Edward Island
Why Stop? This charming seaside village marks the westernmost point of the Confederation Trail in PEI — perfect for a peaceful walk along the coast before getting back on the road.

Cape Spear

NFL – Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site

Near: St. John’s, Newfoundland
Why Stop? The easternmost point in North America is also a perfect stop for road trippers. Walk along this part of the East Coast Trail for stunning Atlantic views and a visit to Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site.