With its vast natural beauty, Canada boasts some of the most incredible national parks in the world, particularly during the summer months. If you are a nature lover or simply looking for an outdoor adventure, Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Parks in Alberta and British Columbia should be at the top of your list.
Banff National Park
Banff National Park, located in the heart of the beautiful Canadian Rockies, is a wonderland of aqua-blue lakes, towering peaks, and lush forests. This park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, from bears and wolves to elk and moose, and offers a wide variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking (or e-biking), and canoeing and is the oldest national park in Canada. Rent e-bikes and take a ride through some of the most gorgeous mountain terrains. Take a dip in the hot springs at Banff Upper Hot Springs and explore famous lakes like Moraine Lake and Lake Louise (you can even go for a cruise on Lake Minnewanka to really explore the water). Even if you don’t plan to do any hiking, you can still enjoy some stellar views on the ride up the Banff Gondola. The park is also famous for its skiing and snowboarding during the winter months, adding more reasons to visit it all year round.
Jasper National Park
Just north of Banff National Park, Jasper National Park spreads over 10,878 square kilometers and offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in Canada. Discover the awe-inspiring Maligne Canyon, marvel at the incredible Athabasca Falls, or hike the stunning Sulphur Skyline trail. For the more adventurous, the park is home to the Columbia Icefield Adventure and the Columbia Icefield Skywalk where you can experience the thrill of walking on a glacier and enjoy the mountain views standing on a glass walkway. Take a trip out on the Maligne Lake Cruise and get a look at the stunning Spirit Island—you’ve probably seen plenty of photos of it on Instagram.
Yoho National Park
Yoho National Park, nestled in the western slopes of the Canadian Rockies, may be smaller than its neighboring parks, but it is no less impressive. Explore the turquoise waters of Emerald Lake, marvel at the impressive Takakkaw Falls, or hike the challenging Iceline Trail. The park is also a great spot for stargazing, as it boasts some of the clearest skies in Canada, making it an ideal location for astrophotography enthusiasts. Just outside Yoho National Park, you can make the walk across the Golden Skybridge for views that aren’t for the faint of heart.
All three national parks offer a range of visitor services, such as campgrounds, lodges, and restaurants, making them accessible for everyone, whether you are looking for a luxurious escape or a budget-friendly adventure. Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Parks are incredible destinations for summer travelers who are after mountains, wildlife, and adventure; these pristine wilderness areas are the perfect way to experience Canada’s natural beauty firsthand. So get your hiking boots on and come explore these stunning parks and immerse yourself in nature like never before.
