Crystal Diane | Lifestyle. Blog. Shop

There’s no better time to travel Canada than now! Whether you already live here or are visiting from afar, there is no shortage of hiking trails, culture, and breathtaking scenery to enjoy. From the East Coast to the West Coast and the mountainous ranges in between, Canada is best explored by car, RV, or with a great pair of hiking boots.

I’ve been lucky enough to see every province and hike some of the most beautiful trails across the country. I love nature and photography, so it’s hard to choose where to go first. But I’ll start with my top 5, from East to West. (By the way, these are my favourites!) For a full list of Canada’s top destinations, check out the CBC’s list as voted by Canadians: Oh Canada!

1. Fogo Island – Newfoundland
Just a scenic drive from Gander Airport and a short ferry ride away, this island is a must-see. The local art community is thriving, and businesses support one another in inspiring ways. It’s wonderful to see the community come together and build each other up. The famous Fogo Island Inn draws travelers from all over the world and even ships locally made items to its guests. From breathtaking ocean views to puffins and lush greenery, hiking here feels like stepping into another world. Untouched by modern construction, the homes and hotels are built with the land in mind. But you can’t miss this hike: Lions Den, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada – 351 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

2. Summerside – PEI
Prince Edward Island is small enough that there’s no excuse not to see it all! I recommend staying in a few different spots. Start in Summerside and drive north to check out the North Cape Coastal Drive | Explore Western PEI. Dig for clams on the red sand beaches, enjoy local food, and indulge in freshly caught seafood. The ocean views are breathtaking, and you can spend hours walking along the shore.Cavendish Dunelands and Beach, Prince Edward Island, Canada – 316 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

3. Halifax – Nova Scotia
Halifax is easy to get around and offers plenty of hiking options. It was hard to pick just one trail from the 10 Best trails and hikes in Nova Scotia | AllTrails, but I chose the Cape Split Loop. The incredible views of the Bay of Fundy blew me away. I even forgot my hiking boots on this trip but did the trail anyway — and I’m so glad I did! I would definitely go back.

4. Lake Louise – Alberta
The animals and trees are free to thrive in their natural environment. Starting at the famous Chateau Lake Louise, you can pick from a few different trails, all leading to magical views of the turquoise lake. My favourite is the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House via Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada – 2,365 Reviews, Map | AllTrails

5. Tofino – British Columbia
Tofino is one of those places that photos describe better than words. The vibe is touristy but done well, with a rugged coastline and endless beaches perfect for walking at sunset. The starfish and tropical-like plants make it feel like stepping into a painting. I don’t know if there’s anywhere more beautiful. Don’t forget your camera and be sure to hike at least one trail — Esowista Peninsula Loop, British Columbia, Canada – 297 Reviews, Map | AllTrails is an incredible mix of lush rainforest and coastal views.

Photo Credit: Mountain Lake Trees – Free photo on Pixabay