Secret Destinations in Canada You Should Know About

1. Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail, Nova Scotia

The Cabot Trail, a nearly 200-mile stretch of road along the highlands, is gorgeous but insanely popular and can get busy, especially during summer. Cape Chignecto Coastal Trail is a challenging but rewarding multi-day hiking trail along the Bay of Fundy. It features stunning sea cliff views, hidden beaches, and forests along the shore. It’s perfect for adventurers seeking solitude and peace among breathtaking views. It’s a loop trail, and it is suggested that you plan on a three-night stay to complete it.

Where to Stay: Evangeline’s Tower Bed & Breakfast

This historic B&B offers cozy rooms and a gourmet breakfast. It’s located approximately 45 minutes from the trailhead, making it a perfect starting point before you set out to camp.

2. Walton Glen Gorge, New Brunswick

Known as “The Grand Canyon of New Brunswick,” the Walton Glen Gorge remains a well-kept secret, featuring deep gorges, waterfall,s and panoramic views of the wilderness. Hikers and photographers will love all the trails have to offer. In the wintertime, the walls of ice turn into ice climbing for the real adventurers. There are several different trails to get to the gorge, but most are challenging. The Walton Glen Gorge Lookout Trail is shorter and provides beautiful views of the gorge and waterfall.

Where to Stay: The Amsterdam Inn

Located about thirty minutes from the Gorge in Sussex, the Amsterdam Inn is a basic, yet comfortable hotel.

3. Greenwich National Park, Prince Edward Island

This secluded section of PEI National Park features rolling sand dunes and a floating boardwalk. The interpretive center features artifacts found onsite from the areas 10,000 year history, interactive exhibits, and a multimedia presentation. You can stroll along a floating bridge, hike the area, laze on the beach, or simply take in the stunning dunes (the biggest sand dunes on PEI).

Where to Stay: Gateway to Greenwich Suites

This eight-suite boutique hotel is within walking distance of amenities, and a short distance from Greenwich National Park.

4. Îles de la Madeleine, Quebec

Although part of Quebec, the Îles de la Madeleine are only accessible by car from a ferry that leaves from Prince Edward Island; and there are nonstop flights from Quebec City and Montreal. This chain of islands features stunning red cliffs, rolling dunes, and is known for its fresh seafood, local arts, and outdoor adventures.

Where to Stay: Château Madelinot

Enjoy stunning views at a central location at Château Madelinot. The rooms are comfortable, and there is an indoor pool and hot tub.

5. Fogo Island, Newfoundland and Labrador

Fogo Island is a remote island off the northeast coast of Newfoundland with stunning landscapes and artistic community. Find treasures at the various pottery, metalworks, quilts and other art shops. The Fogo Island Inn is an art piece in and of itself, an architectural masterpiece with panoramic ocean views.

Where to Stay: Fogo Island Inn

A luxurious eco-friendly lodge offering breathtaking views, fine dining, and immersive cultural experiences.

6. Mingan Archipelago

This series of isolated islands in the Gulf of St. Lawrence, are known for its unique limestone rock formations. These monoliths are extremely remarkable yet are one of Quebec’s least-visited natural wonders. The area is ideal for kayaking, camping, and spotting seals, seabirds and even whales. For a truly unique experience, stay in an Ôasis , a unique, tear-drop shaped glamping accommodation. The islands are accessible by boat from Longue-Pointe-de-Mingan and Havre-Saint-Pierre, June through September.

Where to Stay: Château Arnaud

If camping is not your thing, Château Arnaud is less than two hours away from the ferry to the islands. The hotel is comfortable, and is located on the water.

7. Manitoulin Island, Ontario

Manitoulin Island is the world’s largest freshwater island, and features Indigenous culture, waterfalls, and hiking trails. Hike the Cup and Saucer Trail, which offers some of Ontario’s best panoramic views. Enjoy a horseback ride (and check out the petting zoo before you get on your horse), go golfing, or get a taste of the indigenous people at the Wikwemikong Cultural Festival .

Where to Stay: Manitoulin Hotel & Conference Centre

The Manitoulin Hotel drew inspiration from the indigenous people of the island when designing and decorating. Stay in the heart of the island, for easy access to the top attractions.

8. Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan

This vast, untouched prairie landscape gives you the feel of stepping back into the time of the dinosaurs. Exposed rock lets you see the mass extinction line, the obvious change in landscape after the catastrophic meteor that caused the dinosaurs (and other living animals at the time) to go extinct. The openness makes this area an ideal spot for stargazing, seeing bison roaming freely, and is a wonderland for hiking enthusiasts. There are several camping spots, including two areas with oTENTik tents- a blend of a cabin and a tent in one.

Where to Stay: The Crossing Resort

This ecolodge is less than a half hour from the Grasslands National Park, making it the perfect basepoint for non-campers to call home during their visit.

9. Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

This island archipelago , off the west coast of British Columbia accessible only by boat is home to ancient totem poles , dense rainforests, and secluded beaches. Rich in indigenous Haida culture and history, and a haven for water sports and hiking - history buffs and adventurers alike will love exploring these mystical island. Ferries run from Prince Rupert, which is over 900 miles from Vancouver- and there are nonstop flights from Vancouver to Prince Rupert.

Where to Stay: Haida House at Tllaal

This Indigenous-owned eco-lodge offers cultural experiences and stunning views of the coastline.

10. Kluane National Park, Yukon

While Banff is known for its mountains, Kluane National Park is actually home to Canada’s tallest peak, Mount Logan. Get up close and personal with ice glaciers, spot cold-climate wildlife like grizzly bears, black bears, and dall sheep. This remote location has daily nonstop flights from Vancouver, as well as regular flights from Calgary/Edmonton, Kelowna, Victoria, Fairbanks (summer only) and Frankfurt (summer only).

Where to Stay: Mount Logan Lodge

A rustic yet comfortable mountain lodge with easy access to Kluane’s hiking trails.