11 Breathtaking Places Besides Banff To Explore In Canada

Canada’s National Parks go way beyond Banff.

1. Grasslands National Park, Saskatchewan

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There is a certain level of peace one can only experience in a prairie. Watching the wind move the grass in a cosmic dance, seeing a stone that's seemingly as old as time, and doing it all under the impossibly big blue sky. If that doesn't do it for you, there are also dinosaur fossils you can look at.

2. Yoho National Park, British Columbia

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Enjoy a peek at the simply amazing waters of Emerald Lake from a peak of the Rocky Mountains. Take a hike or hit the trails on a mountain bike.

3. Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve, Quebec

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See the seals, fascinating plant life, and, of course, the limestone pillars sculpted by none other than nature itself. Visiting Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve is like walking through a postcard.

4. Terra Nova National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador

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There are forests for the landlubbers and inlets for the sea lovers. Whether you prefer caves or coves, Terra Nova National Park has an extraordinary experience in nature for everyone.

5. Elk Island National Park, Alberta

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A relaxing place of refuge for bison, birds, and elk alike. Enjoy the thrill of keeping things chill whether it's just for the day or an overnight stay.

6. Prince Edward Island National Park, Prince Edward Island

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If the heron here are any indication, this sure is the place to be if you enjoy sandcastles, seascapes, and the many other draws of visiting the shore. There's fun to be had in the sun or under the woodland cover.

7. Riding Mountain National Park, Manitoba

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Beautiful singing birds, bewilderingly big bison, a historic cabin. Riding Mountain National Park is every camper's dream.

8. Kouchibouguac National Park, New Brunswick

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There are wooded areas and awesome beaches to enjoy during the day, but night is when the stars come out. Literally. Plan a stay in a rustic cabin and enjoy gazing up at the great beyond and getting a view you won't soon forget.

9. Gulf Islands National Park Reserve, British Columbia

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Seabirds, otters, and orcas, oh my! Kayak in the thriving Salish Sea, and maybe you'll even spot a dolphin or two. Or view it all from above after navigating a mountain trail.

10. Pukaskwa National Park, Ontario

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Let the majesty of the waves and untamed wilderness wash over you as you appreciate the gorgeous shores and climb the cliffs that are shared with your fellow dazzling creatures.

11. Kejimkujik National Park, Nova Scotia

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Tough to say, but easy to love. Become engrossed in the marvelous rock engravings made by the indigenous Mi’kmaw people thousands of years ago and enjoy cool coastal offerings. Camp, canoe, and snowshoe.

Now that you're a National Parks expert, go out and explore your country.