The 5 Best Adventure Road Trips in Canada

Best of CANADA

The 5 Best Adventure Road Trips in Canada

Scale towering peaks, trace raw coastlines, and conquer single-track mountain passes on Canada's top adventure road trips.

โ€œFor those who hear the call of the wild, the road is a launching pad to epic explorations. Scaling rugged mountain passes, hiking sheer canyon walls, and kayaking pristine glacial waters makes for an adrenaline-fueled escape. Our editors have compiled and ranked the top 5 absolute best adventure road trips in Canada, optimized for raw wilderness and thrill-seeking detours.โ€
The Prairie to Peak Wilderness Run: Calgary to Waterton Lakes
#1
9.68 Score
Approximately 260 km (160 miles)
2-3 days (allowing for leisurely exploration)

The Prairie to Peak Wilderness Run: Calgary to Waterton Lakes

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the vibrant cityscapes of Calgary through Alberta's rolling prairies to the majestic, glacier-carved peaks of Waterton Lakes National Park. This route offers a captivating blend of history, charming small towns, and breathtaking natural beauty.

Why Our Editors Love It

โ€œPack layers: Southern Alberta weather can change rapidly, especially near the mountains. Be prepared for sun, wind, and even cool temperatures in a single day.โ€

The Yellowhead Wilderness Highway: Edmonton to Jasper
#2
9.66 Score
365 km (227 miles)
1-3 days (4-6 hours driving time)

The Yellowhead Wilderness Highway: Edmonton to Jasper

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the vibrant city of Edmonton into the majestic Canadian Rockies. This guide navigates the scenic Yellowhead Highway, revealing hidden gems, local flavors, and breathtaking vistas on your way to Jasper National Park.

Why Our Editors Love It

โ€œFuel Up in Hinton: While there are gas stations along the way, Hinton is your last major town before Jasper with competitive prices and ample services. Top off your tank here, especially if you plan extensive driving within Jasper National Park.โ€

The Icefields Parkway: Banff to Jasper
#3
9.64 Score
144 miles (232 km)
2-3 days (to fully explore)

The Icefields Parkway: Banff to Jasper

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Icefields Parkway, a breathtaking scenic route through the Canadian Rockies. This guide covers iconic stops, hidden gems, and essential tips for a spectacular adventure from Banff to Jasper.

Why Our Editors Love It

โ€œPurchase your Parks Canada Pass online in advance to save time at the park gates, as it's required for entry into Banff and Jasper National Parks.โ€

The Dinosaur Badlands Desert Traverse: Calgary to Drumheller
#4
9.62 Score
Approximately 135 km (84 miles)
1-2 days (allowing for detailed exploration)

The Dinosaur Badlands Desert Traverse: Calgary to Drumheller

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the vibrant city of Calgary into the ancient, otherworldly landscapes of the Alberta Badlands, culminating in the dinosaur capital of Drumheller. This traverse offers a mesmerizing blend of geological wonders, paleontological discoveries, and charming small-town experiences.

Why Our Editors Love It

โ€œStart your day early to beat the heat, especially if you plan on hiking. The badlands can get incredibly hot under the midday sun, and popular spots fill up quickly.โ€

The Turquoise Waters & Escarpment Drive: Toronto to Bruce Peninsula
#5
9.62 Score
Approximately 300 km (186 miles)
3-5 days

The Turquoise Waters & Escarpment Drive: Toronto to Bruce Peninsula

Embark on an unforgettable journey from the urban sprawl of Toronto to the pristine, turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs of the Bruce Peninsula. This road trip unveils Ontario's natural splendor, blending charming towns with breathtaking natural wonders along the Niagara Escarpment.

Why Our Editors Love It

โ€œBook accommodations and ferry tickets (if visiting Flowerpot Island) well in advance, especially for summer weekends, as popular spots fill up quickly and capacity is limited.โ€