BEST CANADIAN ROAD TRIPS FOR STOPPING AND SMELLING THE FLOWERS

The sun is shining, the birds are chirping, and more importantly, the roads are clear of snow and ice. Spring is the perfect time to pack a lunch, load up the family, and take a road trip. Below are some kid-friendly parks across the country and some tips to make the journey just as good as the destination.

JACQUES-CARTIER PARK.

This public park in Gatineau, Quebec, sits alongside the Ottawa River and provides a beautiful view of the Ottawa skyline. You can visit historic sites like the Maison des Auteurs, cycle the Maison du Vélo, and check out the events that the park frequently hosts. In previous years, events included the Mosaïcultures Internationales de Montréal, a beautiful horticultural sculpture exhibition.

CADDELL RAPIDS LOOKOFF.

Located about an hour outside of Halifax, Caddell Rapids Lookoff is a lovely stop for lunch alongside the Shubenacadie River. It boasts an amazing view of the sunset and is the perfect perch for birdwatching. Visitors have often spotted bald eagles on this convenient riverside pit stop.

QUEEN ELIZABETH PARK.

Queen Elizabeth Park is a beautiful public park located in the center of Vancouver. The park is known for being a horticultural jewel with stunning flora and fauna in the Bloedel Conservatory. Park-goers can walk or cycle the paths, lawn bowl, play tennis, and more.

BANFF NATIONAL PARK.

Located in Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, Banff is Canada’s oldest national park. This scenic drive is complete with turquoise waters, a picturesque mountain town, abundant wildlife, and stunning Rocky Mountain peaks. Visitors can catch glimpses of bighorn sheep, deer, bald eagles, and even black and grizzly bears!

BRUCE PENINSULA NATIONAL PARK.

Located in Ontario between Georgian Bay and Lake Huron, this scenic peninsula is home to clear blue waters, exciting hiking trails, and a bird observatory. Hikers can experience cliff diving in the turquoise waters, or even spot rare reptiles hidden in the rocky expanses. Just a few hours north of Toronto, this park makes for a great day trip.

The Bruce Peninsula is a peninsula in Ontario, that lies between Georgian Bay and the main basin of Lake Huron. To set yourself up for a relaxing, stress-free vacation, try some pro tips. Pack an emergency firstaid kit to ensure little bumps and bruises are covered and avoid unplanned trips to the drugstore. Bring snacks and food for the journey—this is both cost-effective and keeps everyone well-fed and happy.

—NC