8 Epic Places in Canada Most Canadians Don’t Know Exist!

It’s the world’s most poorly kept secret: Canada is a beautiful country!

From lush green spaces, natural landscapes and visually stunning cities, there’s a place for everyone to explore. As expansive as it is, every local has their own personal favourites when it comes to recommending the ‘must-visit’ hot spots!

That being said, Canada is still a place with a lot of secret, lesser known gems. So secret that even many Canadians don’t know about them! Not to fret, though. We’ve got the inside scoop! Read about these 8 semi-undiscovered natural beauties found in Canada that are just waiting for you to wander through. What are you waiting for? Start planning today!

1. Manawan, Quebec

The stunning Native Reserve of Manawan is located on the southwestern shores of Lake Métabeskéga in Quebec. It is a First Nations reserve, belonging to the Atikamekw of Manawan band. The Native community offers visitors to the reserve the opportunity to interact with authentic, and exotic, experiences while learning about their unique culture, rites, and history. This includes native workshops, guided tours, and canoe trips. Visitors are invited to stay in a teepee in Lac Kempt in blissful natural surroundings, or in the Auberge Manawan Inn within the community itself.

A visit to Manawan is sure to be a treat for nature and outdoor lovers everywhere.

2. Dawson, Yukon

If you’re looking for something a little more unique but not necessarily outdoors, Dawson could be just what you need. Located in the northwest of Yukon, Dawson was at the heart of the Klondike Gold Rush in the 19th century. Due to it’s tiny population (1,375 as of the 2016 census) the town has a wonderful local and quaint feel to it. Many of the original buildings and architecture have been maintained impeccably, giving the place a nostalgic old Western movie feel.

With it’s beautiful architecture, rich history and colourful facades, Dawson is a town well worth a visit!

3. Fogo Island, Newfoundland

Fogo Island is getting more notoriety thanks to the Fogo Island Inn—an ultra modern, luxury hotel built straight onto the rocks on the outskirts of the island, offering beautiful panoramic views. It is one of the largest islands located just off the northeast coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. National Geographic describes it as ‘not so much a place, as a state of mind’ and delving into the surroundings and maritime history of the place you can see why!

Home to a rapidly emerging art scene, this is a cultural stop you won’t want to miss out on.

4. Haida Gwaii, British Columbia

Here’s one for the real nature lovers. Haida Gwaii is also known as the Queen Charlotte Islands and is located on the west coast of British Columbia. It’s inhabited by the native Haida people, once known as the Vikings of the Pacific northwest, and a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll find everything you need to suit your nature cravings—from incredible sweeping beaches to the wildlife-rich Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve with its temperate rainforest.

Reconnect with our beautiful, natural world and pay Haida Gwaii a visit.

5. L’Anse Aux Meadows, Newfoundland

At the northernmost tip of Newfoundland, L’Anse Aux Meadows is unique for being the only authenticated site of a Viking or Norse settlement on the continent. Only recently discovered in 1960, and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, many of the buildings have been restored and visitors are able to see the Viking’s original base camp alongside guided tours to learn about the rich history.

Definitely a hotspot for any history buffs out there, and even if you’re not, the beautiful coastal scenes alone are worth the trip.

6. Alexandra Falls, Northwest Territories

More of a water baby? Canada has you covered. The Alexandra Falls is a beautiful, rampant waterfall that has a 10-story drop over a limestone ridge. Located in the Northwest Territories on the Hay River, Alexandra Falls is the third-highest waterfall in the region and it forms the centrepiece of the Twin Falls Gorge Territorial Park. Viewing platforms extend out right on the edge of the falls, allowing visitors to capture the dramatic scenes perfectly.

It might not quite be Niagara, but it’s worth putting on your scenic trip list!

7. Burgoyne’s Cove, Newfoundland

Sitting on the east coast of Newfoundland, Burgoyne’s Cove is a settlement in Newfoundland Labrador and most noted for its deep-sheltered coves that make it a perfect spot for various fish to flourish—and local fishermen to catch them! Adventurous tourists will be interested in seeking out Burgoyne’s Cove for the B-26 bomber that crashed there in 1953. After getting caught in bad weather, the craft crashed, killing all 23 crew members on board. Remains of the craft are still there today and many enjoy the trek to see them.

8. Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Park, British Columbia

Spatsizi Plateau Wilderness Parks is a provincial park located in British Columbia. It protects most of the Spatsizi plateau; the southeastern-most sub-plateau of the Stikine Plateau and the upper reaches of the Stikine River basin. You may be thinking that all this sounds well and good, but is it just another park? Given that British Columbia Parks has dubbed it as one of the most significant parks in Canada, the answer is no, it is not just another park!

National Geographic called it the ‘Serengeti of North America’ due to the overwhelming number of wildlife that call the park home. Visitors to the park are sparse, making it the perfect destination to for an otherworldly, nature adventure.