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Canada’s spectacular landscapes were perfectly made for outdoor adventure, with everything from wild, rugged coastline and idyllic beaches to soaring mountains and countless glistening lakes. With so much on offer, it’s no surprise that the majority of Canadians, 7 of 10 according to government statistics, participate in at least one outdoor activity, with nearly half joining in on three or more.
Whether you’re visiting, looking to make a move, perhaps buying one of the Calgary homes for sale, or are fortunate to already live in this great country, these are the top five outdoor activities you’ll really need to put on your must-do list.
Hike
Hiking is the most popular outdoor activity in Canada. There are breathtaking routes from east to west, like the East Coast Trail that stretches for over 186 miles along the Avalon Peninsula of Newfoundland, showcasing dramatic Atlantic coast vistas, with towering cliffs, sea stacks and fjords. In Alberta, Banff National Park is renowned for its scenic hikes, including treks that meander around the shoreline of surreal turquoise lakes like Lake Moraine, one of the world’s most stunning.
Hit the trails on Vancouver Island in British Columbia along the coast to stroll the beaches and watch for all sorts of marine life, from whales, and porpoise to sea lions. The entire province is a hiker’s paradise and a wildlife watchers’ dream.
Kayak
Speaking of Vancouver Island, the waters that surround it are some of the best for paddling while watching for whales and porpoise. Sea kayaking through Johnstone Strait is a bucket-list experience as the home of one of the largest concentrations of orcas. While gliding across the water you’ll see countless bald eagles perched in the trees and soaring overhead.
On the other side of the country, sea kayaking through the Bay of Fundy in Nova Scotia brings the chance to paddle through the largest tides on the planet, viewing sea stacks, arches, red cliffs, and ancient lava flows as well.
Whitewater Rafting
Banff is home to rivers that offer an exciting mix of rapids for everyone from beginners to experts. Families with kids can enjoy the class 2 to 3 rapids on the Kananaskis River, while the Bow River that roars through Horseshoe Canyon provides big thrills with up to class 5 rapids. On the more tranquil stretches, you’ll be able to spot large birds of prey and even go cliff jumping. The Kicking Horse River which runs through the Rockies in southern British Columbia also offers amazing whitewater, while the Ottawa River in and around Ottawa River Provincial Park is one of the most popular destinations in the entire country for riding the rapids.
Surfing
While few envision Canada as a surfing destination, you’ll find great waves on both coasts. Tofino in British Columbia offers world-class waves with year-round appeal although the summer season is best for beginners, while winter brings massive swells. Lawrencetown Beach in Nova Scotia is renowned among surfers across the globe, boasting one of the best point breaks on Earth. Rides can be over a minute long during September swells.
Skiing
Finally, when it comes to outdoor adventure, Canada is probably most often associated with skiing. It’s famous for its snowy slopes, with Whistler considered one of the top spots in the world for skiers. The site of many of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, it’s visited by more skiers in North America than any other resort. Hosting two mountains, Whistler and Blackcomb, they’re connected by the Peak 2 Peak gondola which offers access to everything from beginner to expert terrain with more than 200 runs.
