Discover the wilderness with these 12 national parks in Canada

1. Banff National Park

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Banff National Park is one of the most famous national parks in Canada. Known for its stunning mountain landscapes, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife, Banff offers a plethora of activities such as hiking, skiing, and wildlife viewing. Don’t forget to visit the iconic Lake Louise and Moraine Lake for breathtaking views.

2. Jasper National Park

As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that features expansive wilderness, majestic mountains, and diverse ecosystems. The park is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, with activities ranging from hiking and biking to stargazing under some of the darkest skies in Canada.

3. Yoho National Park

Adjacent to Banff, Yoho National Park is less crowded but equally stunning. With its dramatic waterfalls, emerald lakes, and impressive mountain ranges, Yoho is a hidden gem for nature lovers. Highlights include the stunning Takakkaw Falls and the picturesque Emerald Lake.

4. Kootenay National Park

Known for its unique geological features, Kootenay National Park offers a diverse landscape that ranges from hot springs to rugged mountains. Visitors can explore the Radium Hot Springs, hike the trails, or simply enjoy the scenic drives through the park.

5. Gros Morne National Park

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gros Morne National Park in Newfoundland and Labrador is known for its dramatic cliffs and fjords. The park is a hiker's paradise, with trails that lead to breathtaking viewpoints and unique geological formations.

6. Pacific Rim National Park Reserve

Located on Vancouver Island, Pacific Rim National Park Reserve features stunning coastal scenery and lush rainforests. It’s a haven for surfers, beachcombers, and nature lovers alike. The park is home to various wildlife, including sea otters, seals, and black bears.

7. Waterton Lakes National Park

Part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes National Park is known for its stunning lakes and mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, canoeing, and wildlife watching in this scenic area that boasts a rich biodiversity.

8. Fundy National Park

Home to the world’s highest tides, Fundy National Park in New Brunswick offers visitors a chance to explore the Bay of Fundy’s unique coastal ecosystems. Hiking trails, salt marshes, and dramatic cliffs make this park a must-visit for nature enthusiasts.

9. Riding Mountain National Park

Located in Manitoba, Riding Mountain National Park is known for its diverse landscapes, which include forests, wetlands, and grasslands. The park offers a variety of recreational activities such as hiking, biking, and birdwatching, making it a perfect getaway for outdoor lovers.

10. Cape Breton Highlands National Park

This stunning park in Nova Scotia features breathtaking coastal cliffs and lush forests. Cape Breton Highlands National Park is famous for the Cabot Trail, which offers some of the most scenic drives in Canada. Visitors can hike the numerous trails and enjoy the park’s rich cultural heritage.

11. Auyuittuq National Park

Located in Nunavut, Auyuittuq National Park is known for its remote wilderness and stunning Arctic landscapes. The park is a paradise for adventurers, offering opportunities for hiking, climbing, and exploring the unique flora and fauna of the Arctic region.

12. Nahanni National Park Reserve

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Nahanni National Park Reserve in the Northwest Territories is famous for its deep canyons and stunning waterfalls. The park is also home to the breathtaking Virginia Falls, which is twice the height of Niagara Falls. Adventure seekers can explore the park’s rugged wilderness through canoeing and hiking.

Quick Comparison Chart of National Parks

National Park	Location	Main Attractions	Activities
Banff National Park	Alberta	Lake Louise, Moraine Lake	Hiking, skiing, wildlife viewing
Jasper National Park	Alberta	Maligne Lake, Athabasca Falls	Hiking, biking, stargazing
Yoho National Park	British Columbia	Takakkaw Falls, Emerald Lake	Hiking, camping
Kootenay National Park	British Columbia	Radium Hot Springs	Hiking, scenic drives
Gros Morne National Park	Newfoundland and Labrador	Gros Morne Mountain, fjords	Hiking, photography
Pacific Rim National Park Reserve	British Columbia	Long Beach, rainforests	Surfing, beachcombing
Waterton Lakes National Park	Alberta	Waterton Lake, Prince of Wales Hotel	Hiking, canoeing
Fundy National Park	New Brunswick	Bay of Fundy, coastal cliffs	Hiking, kayaking
Riding Mountain National Park	Manitoba	Clear Lake, wetlands	Hiking, biking
Cape Breton Highlands National Park	Nova Scotia	Cabot Trail, coastal cliffs	Hiking, scenic drives
Auyuittuq National Park	Nunavut	Arctic landscapes	Hiking, climbing
Nahanni National Park Reserve	Northwest Territories	Virginia Falls, canyons	Canoeing, hiking

Exploring the national parks of Canada is a journey through some of the most breathtaking landscapes on Earth. Each park offers a unique experience, showcasing the country's rich natural heritage. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or a connection with nature, these 12 national parks are sure to make your wilderness experience unforgettable.