Thirst for adventure? Canada’s national parks, each more diverse than the last, will answer the call. Yes, the Canadian winter can be chilly, but in our opinion, it only enhances the beauty of our parks. So here are 05 Beautiful Candian of the little-known national parks that you should check out during the cold season for their incomparable experiences, whether it’s luxury camping or snowshoeing.
British Columbia: Kootenay National Park
Cross-country skiing in Kootenay National Park, British Columbia – Photo: Destination BC/Kari Medig
Did you know that Kootenay National Park was created in 1920 as part of an agreement to build a road through the Rockies?
With its icy rivers and hot thermal springs, this park is a paradise for winter lovers. Explore winding backcountry trails on cross-country skis or snowshoes , climb ice waterfalls, or spot wildlife like bighorn sheep, elk, and moose, then end the day in style at Radium Hot Springs . Considered sacred by First Nations and prized by the pioneers of Western Canada, these springs nestled in the Rockies have invigorated and inspired generations of travelers.
Quebec: Mauricie National Park
Parks Canada. Did you know that La Mauricie National Park is as large as the island of Montreal? It’s quite a playground!
Like the cities of Quebec , the province’s parks come alive when the mercury drops. With more than 150 lakes and vast expanses of dense forests, La Mauricie National Park offers a host of winter activities , so there is something for everyone. In one of the most beautiful regions of Quebec, come and discover a cross-country ski center offering 80 kilometers of marked and mapped trails, in addition to heated rest stops. You can also put on your snowshoes or crampons and admire the impressive views of the forest, lakes and streams offered throughout the 75 kilometers of snowshoe trails. Continue your stay in comfort and simplicity by reserving an oTENTik tent or enjoy the joys of winter camping in the heart of silence and the forest.
New Brunswick: Kouchibouguac National Park
Did you know that a Christmas bird count is carried out every year in Kouchibouguac National Park ? This tradition has lasted for over 50 years!
Winter is a magical season in Kouchibouguac , where it is easy to indulge in seasonal activities such as cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and fat-tired biking on maintained trails. It is also the ideal opportunity to rediscover the park under its white coat. You can rent all the necessary equipment at the Pijeboogwek Winter Activities Center , opposite the information center. During your excursion, keep your eyes peeled: you might spot blue jays and saw-whet owls, a species of owl, in the trees bare of their leaves. Take the opportunity to relax and spend the night at the South Kouchibouguac campground , in one of the three heated rustic shelters (one of them is closed for the 2020-2021 season) accessible by trails. If you prefer to commune with nature, bring your own tent for an overnight winter camping trip .
Manitoba: Riding Mountain National Park
Did you know that in the 1930s, Gray Owl, the famous trapper turned conservationist, worked as a “wildlife defender” at the newly established Riding Mountain National Park , accompanied by his faithful beaver Jelly Roll?
Located about three hours from Winnipeg, this superb park is every adventurer’s dream: ice fishing , snowmobiling , kite flying (like windsurfing on snow), and skiing. background are so many options available to them. Of course, fans of snowball fights and snow angels are not left out! If you want to experience the full Canadian winter experience and observe wildlife at daybreak (when elk and bison, among others, are most active), stay in a pre-assembled oTENTik tent that is both rustic and comfortable ; At dawn, you can soak up the beauty of the surroundings.
Yukon: Kluane National Park and Reserve
Did you know that Kluane National Park and Reserve is home to Canada’s highest peak (5,959 meter Mount Logan), its largest ice field, and the most genetically diverse grizzly bear population in North America?
Are you looking for an experience that you will remember for the rest of your life? This park could well make you experience it. In addition to breathtaking landscapes, it offers all kinds of adventures, from the most peaceful to the most thrilling. Since the lakes are frozen, there are even more places to explore in winter. Strap on some cross-country skis or snowshoes and conquer these great outdoors, or ice fish and cook your catch at a backcountry campground. Then admire the ballet of the Northern Lights which light up the sky.
