- Canada has some of the best scenic drives in the world. You get to see ocean views, the huge Rocky Mountains, and thick rainforests.
- You can travel down routes like the Icefields Parkway and Cabot Trail. Both of these give you amazing landscapes and a chance to spot unique wildlife.
- If you want to see some history, head out on the Viking Trail. It is home to North America’s only authenticated Viking settlement and also gives you nice views of the coast.
- You can also try the Pacific Rim Highway or follow the Trans-Canada Highway. Each road trip mixes nature, local culture, and a bit of adventure.
- This guide will share ten road trip routes you should try in 2025 if you want to experience scenic drives across Canada’s lively regions.
Canada is the perfect place for a road trip. The country has huge open spaces and amazing views. You can go on a scenic drive in tough, wild national parks, take a trip down beautiful roads by the water, or try out some lesser-known road trip routes. In 2025, there will be something for every person who wants to travel.
While you go on these drives, you will find hidden gems, like big sand dunes, mountain scenery, and some great chances for wildlife viewing. You may be left amazed by all you see along the way. Each road trip offers something you will not forget. These routes mix natural beauty and important culture.
If you want to know more, keep reading. You will find out about the best scenic drives in Canada, each full of adventure and new sights.
Exploring Scenic Drives in Canada: Top Routes for 2025
Canada is still a top spot for anyone who loves a good road trip. In 2025, there will be some amazing journeys to take. You will see glistening lakes, big mountains, and rocky fjords along the way. Popular routes like the Viking Trail, the Icefields Parkway, and the Cabot Trail are here for anyone who wants some adventure and new memories.
These road trips are not just about beautiful views. There is also a lot of history to find. You will pass national historic sites and some old historic mining towns as you go. Let’s look at ten road trip routes that make people know Canada is famous for its scenic drives.
1. Icefields Parkway: Journey through the Rockies
Driving the Icefields Parkway feels like stepping into a different world. This road goes for 143 miles and is set between Banff and Jasper National Parks. Here, you see some of the best mountain scenery anywhere. Along the way, you pass views that take your breath away, like the famous Athabasca Glacier and the bright blue waters of Lake Louise. You will spot clean lakes, tall waterfalls, and the mighty, snow-covered Rocky Mountains.
There is so much wildlife in this area. You might see elk eating grass in big fields or black bears near the trees beside the road. People come to look at big cliffs and rocks made out of limestone here, and it is a great spot to take photos or go out for a walk.
One stop you must see is the Columbia Icefield. You can join a tour that takes you right out on top of the cool Athabasca Glacier. There is the Glacier Skywalk’s glass-bottom path too, where you can look down and see icy valleys below you. Taking this trip means creating strong memories that last for a long time. The Icefields Parkway is a great place to visit if you want to see Canada’s jaw-dropping mountain scenery in the national parks, near Lake Louise and the Rocky Mountains, as well as the stunning Athabasca Glacier in the heart of the **Jasper
2. Cabot Trail: Cape Breton’s Majestic Landscapes
The Cabot Trail is known all around the world. It shows off the amazing beauty found on Cape Breton Island. The trail is 185 miles long and makes a big loop through Cape Breton Highlands National Park. As you drive, you will see big cliffs next to the ocean, quiet lakes, and rough highlands.
You can also visit nearby fishing villages that are full of life. Try some of Nova Scotia’s best seafood, like lobster and crab. For a local cultural touch, go to Glenora Distillery. This is the only place in Canada where single-malt whiskey is made.
Look out for wild animals as you travel the park. You might see black bears, bald eagles, and moose, especially if you go off the main path. The Cabot Trail has history, natural beauty, and a relaxed feel. It captures what Canada is all about. Anyone looking for a perfect scenic drive will find it here.
3. Sea to Sky Highway: From Vancouver to Whistler
The Sea to Sky Highway (Highway 99) starts at Horseshoe Bay, close to Vancouver. This road trip takes you through some of the most beautiful places in British Columbia. As you drive, the views change from the coast to mountain scenery. The road has many things to see and do.
Stop at well-known spots like Shannon Falls and Brandywine Falls. At both places, you can see amazing waterfalls. They sit inside green forests with tall Douglas fir trees all around. If you want to see even more, take a ride on the Sea to Sky Gondola. This gives you big views of Howe Sound, which is North America’s southernmost fjord.
When you reach about halfway on the journey, visit Whistler. Whistler is loved for its outdoor sports and lively charm. You can walk on pretty trails or enjoy the great views that look like they came from a postcard. The Sea to Sky Highway gives you one of the best road trip experiences in british columbia, showing you some of the top mountain scenery in north america.
4. The Viking Trail: Discover Newfoundland’s Rugged Coast
The Viking Trail is a great way for people to see the history and beautiful nature of Newfoundland. This road is 489 kilometers long and takes you to Gros Morne National Park. You will find high fjords, big glaciers, strong waterfalls, and green valleys along the way.
Visit the L’Anse aux Meadows National Historic Site to see North America’s only authenticated Viking settlement. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an important place full of history. People can also learn about the region’s early roots in spots like Port au Choix, where there are old objects from Indigenous groups.
Be sure to hike up to Gros Morne Mountain. Take a boat tour too, and see the amazing fjord at Western Brook Pond. Both stops on the Viking Trail let you take in stunning views you can’t get anywhere else. This drive has so much history and wild views, that it truly stands out as one of the top scenic drives in Canada.
5. Pacific Rim Highway: A Coastal Escape on Vancouver Island
The Pacific Rim Highway on Vancouver Island is a special road. It gives you a coastal trip that is not like any other. The highway starts in Port Alberni. You drive through old, green forests and past beaches with mist and big waves.
On the drive, you will see places like Sproat Lake and Kennedy Lake. These lakes are full of clear water and trees go up high all around them. You can visit the Pacific Rim Visitor Center. It helps you plan trips to beaches close by. Many people come to Long Beach, which is famous for surfing and peaceful views.
At the end of the drive, you can check out Tofino and Ucluelet. These are small fishing towns where you can really relax. You can walk in the clean areas of Pacific Rim National Park or watch the sun set into the sea. This trip is perfect for people who love nature and want to get out and see the coast of Vancouver Island by way of the Pacific Rim Highway.
6. Yellowhead Highway: Experience Western Canada’s Diverse Terrain
The Yellowhead Scenic Highway (Highway 16) goes through four provinces and is a great way to see Western Canada’s beauty. It starts in Alberta’s Jasper National Park and moves across to British Columbia’s wild lands. This road gives people a good mix of sights to see.
You will get to look at wide open prairies, thick forests, and the huge, tall Rocky Mountains. The road is not only about nature’s looks. It also lets you reach the well-known Alaska Highway. This spot is famous for its tough roads and important history.
If you are someone who loves animals, you will like this road trip. You can spot wild creatures like grizzly bears, elk, and moose on the Yellowhead Scenic Highway. This is the kind of road trip that gives people the best taste of Canada’s land. It’s perfect for those who want to see many kinds of places and enjoy the outdoors.
7. Trans-Canada Highway: A Cross-Country Adventure
The Trans-Canada Highway is about 4,800 miles long. It lets you see the huge and beautiful places in Canada. Along the way, you can stop at Banff National Park, see its blue-green lakes, and look up at its tall, rocky mountains. You can also visit Fundy National Park, where the Bay of Fundy has the world’s highest tides.
You will also discover nice places like Quebec City. There are sand dunes at Sandbanks Provincial Park you can check out too. Every province along the route has something new. Some have wide green forests or high cliffs. Others have big cities with lots of history to see.
No matter if you drive the whole Trans-Canada Highway or just part of it, you are sure to find a new adventure or a pretty view. This road brings history, exciting places, and beautiful spaces all in one trip.
8. Crowsnest Pass: Through the Southern Rockies
The Crowsnest Highway (Highway 3) takes you through the beautiful Southern Rockies in Canada. The route starts in Alberta. It goes through tall mountain passes, quiet valleys, and crosses the impressive Continental Divide.
Along the way, you will find stops like the Frank Slide, a well-known rockslide spot, and the town of Blairmore. This highway carries a lot of history about Canada’s mining and shows its strong culture.
When you drive here, you will get a look at mountain views, green forests, and wide-open prairies. If you want some peace and a place with few people, the Crowsnest Highway is a good pick. You will see great views all along this stretch.
9. Stewart-Cassiar Highway: Remote Beauty of Northern BC
Winding through the wild and rugged land in northern British Columbia, the Stewart-Cassiar Highway gives you a break from busy life. This is a scenic drive known for its beautiful views. You get to see clear, pristine lakes and wide open mountain scenery along the way. If you love nature or want a good road trip, this is a great choice. Watch for grizzly bears and black bears as you drive. You can also visit some historic mining towns on the route, which bring a bit of the past into your journey.
10. The Loyalist Parkway: Ontario’s Historical Route
Connecting Ontario’s past with its beautiful sights, the Loyalist Parkway is a scenic route that goes along the edge of Lake Ontario. The road trip stretches from Amherstview to the old town of Niagara-on-the-Lake. As you travel, you can see national historic sites, small villages, and green vineyards. The drive is very special during the summer months because the area comes alive with color and there are many wildlife viewing spots. Every turn along the Loyalist Parkway shows the deep history mixed with wonderful views of nature, so it is a road trip you should try.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best months to explore these scenic routes?
The best time to go and see these beautiful routes is from late spring to early fall. This usually means from May to September. At this time of year, the weather is better. You get to see bright, colorful landscapes, and the sky is often clear. This helps you enjoy the amazing views along these great highways.
Are these routes suitable for all types of vehicles?
The Stewart-Cassiar Highway and Loyalist Parkway are good for many types of vehicles. You can drive a car or an RV on them. But, some places on the Stewart-Cassiar can be rough. It may help to have a tougher vehicle there. Before you go, it is a good idea to check current local advisories.
What are some essential tips for long drives in Canada?
To have a safe and good long drive in Canada, plan your route before you go. Check the weather and make sure your vehicle is in good shape. Bring snacks and water for the trip. Stop often to stretch and rest. Keep an emergency kit with you, just in case you need it. Stay alert on the road and take time to enjoy the beautiful views!
Can I find accommodation easily along these routes?
Yes, you can find many places to stay along these beautiful drives. There are cozy inns, hotels, and campgrounds to choose from. You will have options that fit all kinds of budgets and needs. This way, you can have a good and comfortable stay while you enjoy the amazing sights of Canada.
Enhancing Your Scenic Drive Experience in Canada
To make your scenic drive in Canada better, try stopping at local spots. You can taste the food from the region and use mobile apps to plan your route. If you travel during times when not many people are on the road, you will get calmer views and fewer crowds. Doing this can help make your trip more special.
Planning Your Itinerary: Key Stops and Must-See Attractions
To get the best out of your scenic drives in Canada, try to visit important places. You can see beautiful spots like Glacier National Park. There are also some historical sites along the Loyalist Parkway that you should not miss. It helps to check out all the attractions before you go. This way, you will not miss any special places on your trip.