11 Protected Places In Canada You Need To See In Your Lifetime

Explore 450,000 km2 of memories.

1. Listen to Viking tales told around a fire while sharing a spiced drink at L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site.

Explore where the Norse first landed in North America and see the incredible cliffs and coastline that welcomed the first European visitors.

2. "Rough it" in style and comfort at Georgian Bay Islands National Park.

Swimming, hiking, and staring up at the starry skies, all with the added splendor of spending the night in a rustic cabin. Great for campers who want a little extra comfort in the wild!

3. Marvel at majestic and, oh yeah, massive whales at Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park.

From the shore or by boat, see whales, seals, and many other sea creatures in their natural habitat.

4. Hike a historical trade route at Chilkoot Trail National Historic Site.

Once a staple of Chilkoot Tlingit traders and later a popular passage for explorers and gold-hungry go-getters, this 53-kilometre trail spans two countries and countless breathtaking views. Speaking of being out of breath, the rough terrain and potentially extreme weather make this hike best enjoyed by physically fit and experienced backpackers.

5. See the butterflies at Point Pelee National Park.

Admire the magnificent monarch butterflies while learning about the fascinating creatures and ways in which we can help conserve the population.

6. Travel back in time to the 1700s at Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site.

Turn back the clock and kick back with some rum. Or try firing a musket and having friendly, informative chats with fishermen, French soldiers, and other characters from centuries ago.

7. Swim in a sinkhole at Wood Buffalo National Park.

Blue-green waters so refreshing you'll wonder why the beavers and loons that frequent these connected craters haven't told everyone all about it.

8. Admire one of the few remaining grasslands at Grasslands National Park.

There aren't many places in the world like it, but with continued support and education on how to conserve such a vital part of the Canadian landscape, we can keep this paradise of plains protected.

9. Trek through ancient trees at Glacier National Park.

This family-friendly hike on a boardwalk — winding between hemlocks about as old as trees can be — is a cool getaway from the heat and a lovely place to take in amazing views.

10. View the polar bears at Wapusk National Park.

Admire this vulnerable species in their natural habitat from a safe but spectacular distance.

11. Relax in the natural hot springs of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve, National Marine Conservation Area Reserve, and Haida Heritage Site.

The hot pools experience on Gandll K’in Gwaay.yaay (Hotspring Island) is back! Let the stress float away while the memories and learnings about the local wildlife and Haida culture roll in.

All Images via Parks Canada

With so much to see and do, there's a Protected Place in Canada for everyone to enjoy.