Top 10 most beautiful landscapes in Western Canada

A Western Canada road trip promises grandiose landscapes each more spectacular than the last.

While waiting to make your travel plans a reality, let me take you to the 10 most beautiful places in this magnificent destination.

Time to discover the beautiful and great Canadian Outdoors!
 

#1. Icefields Parkway

Driving past a lake in the Canadian Rockies
The Icefields Parkway offers spectacular scenery from Banff to Jasper

Let's start the list with the breathtaking scenery offered by the glaciers between Banff National Park and Jasper National Park.

With its crystal-clear lakes, thundering waterfalls and dizzying peaks, it's a real feast for the eyes.

The must-see stops along this 230-kilometre-long scenic route include Lake Louise, Sunwapta Falls and Bow Lake.

Take your time, bring your walking shoes and your camera, and discover all the beauty of the Icefields Parkway.

 

#2. Inside Passage

The Inside Passage 

Linking Washington State and Alaska, the Inside Passage waterway lets you discover islands only accessible by boat.

During your Western Canada road trip, I recommend taking the Inside Passage ferry from Port Hardy to Prince Rupert.

This 15-hour cruise is a chance to see impressive wildlife, including orcas, whales and sea lions, amidst breathtaking scenery.

It's sure to be one of the highlights of your Western Canadian trip.

 

#3. Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake

Located in Jasper National Park and known for the magnificent colour of its water, Maligne Lake is a must-see Western Canadian destination.  

Treat yourself to a Maligne Lake cruise and set sail to Spirit Island aboard a heated tour boat. Surrounded by mountains and glaciers, this famous island is so stunning that it's said to be the most photographed island in the world.

 

#4. Helmcken Falls

Helmcken Falls western Canada
Helmcken Falls

In the “Waterfall Park”, as Wells Grey Provincial Park is often known, discover the magic of Helmcken Falls, which is certainly the most beautiful waterfall in Western Canada.

An exceptional spot in summer and winter alike, the falls can be reached in 5 minutes for a quick visit, or a 3-hour round-trip for hikers who want to experience the Rim Trail.

 

#5. Pacific Rim

Aerial view of Vancouver Island's Pacific coast
Aerial view of Pacific Rim on Vancouver Island

The very definition of diversity with its surfing spots, sea kayaking, hiking trails, heavenly beaches and local arts scent, Pacific Rim is sure to charm you with its spectacular scenery.

Take your time, hike one of the many trails that wind through the lush rainforest, before ending your day on Long Beach to watch a magnificent sunset over the Pacific Ocean. 

An open invitation for contemplation and relaxation...

 

#6. Okanagan Valley

Sunset in the Okanagan Valley
Okanagan Valley

The Okanagan Valley is a real haven of peace, renowned for its vineyards and fruit orchards.

In Kelowna, hike up to Knox Mountain Park for panoramic views of Okanagan Lake and the city. It's also a great place to see local wildlife including lynx and snakes.

After these remarkable sights, head into town for some local food and wine :;): emoji

 

#7. Lake Louise

Panoramic view of Lake Louise in summer
Lake Louise in summer

I think Lake Louise belongs on every TOP 10 article in this blog, don't you? In fact, it's in our Top 10 Instagram spots in Western Canada.

This Canadian gem offers a postcard-perfect decor with its aquamarine waters and backdrop of impressive snow-capped peaks.

Hike up the mountain to immortalize magnificent views of the lake from above, flanked by the prestigious Fairmont Château Lake Louise Hotel on one side and the glacier on the other.

 

#8. Moraine Lake

Stunning view of Moraine Lake in summer
Moraine Lake

Just 14 kilometres from Lake Louise, discover Moraine Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies.

Nestled the Valley of the Ten Peaks, this immense turquoise lake offers a mirror-like reflection of the surrounding mountains on a clear day. 

To make the most of this impressive landscape, plan to visit in June when the colour of the water is at its best.

 

#9. Peyto Lake

western canada lake
Peyto Lake at sunset

Take one of Western Canada's most popular hikes for stunning views of Peyto Lake.

Perfect for families or casual hikers, this easy trail leads to magnificent viewpoints such as the one in the photo above. 

The contrast between the turquoise waters, the glacier and the dark pine forest is striking.

 

#10. The Canadian Rockies

Aerial view of the the Canadian Rockies
Aerial view of the Rockies

Stretching through the provinces of British Columbia and Alberta, the Canadian Rocky Mountain Range is home to numerous alpine lakes and a wide variety of wildlife.

What better way to enjoy all this natural beauty than a scenic helicopter flight over the Rockies?

This 40-minute flight will be one of the most spectacular and exciting moments of your trip :coeur: emoji

It's no accident that this experience is on our list of things to do in Western Canada before you die.

 

The most beautiful landscapes in Western Canada

top landscapes in western canada
Map of the TOP 10 landscapes

 

Once again, it was hard to limit myself to only 10! So feel free to add to this list with any places you feel are among the most beautiful landscapes in Western Canada.

Karolane Lessard

An enthusiast of both our vibrant cities & great oudoors, my life revolves around travel & adventure. It's a no brainer that I have to share the wonders & secrets of my neck of the woods with other travelling souls. Enjoy the journey!

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2 comments

Andy March 27, 2023, 09h34
Really helpful and informative for our trip. Thank you
Answer
Karolane Lessard April 2, 2023, 16h47
Hi Andy,
Thank you for your kind words, I'm glad it could help plan your trip!
Have a great day!
Answer

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