A 35-minute drive east of Edmonton takes you to the rolling hills, aspen forests, rich wetlands, pretty lakes and starry skies of Elk Island National Park. It is an ‘island’ of natural wonders and a...

Northern Explorers Magazine shares stories, tips, and practical guides for active travellers and adventurous families. Learn more about Canadian destinations, find tips and itinerary ideas for extended road trips, weekends away, family vacations, and backcountry adventures and learn more about Canada's First Peoples through authentic Indigenous experiences. Whether exploring your backyard or visiting from afar, we welcome you!
We are grateful to be able to live, work, and play on this land and acknowledge it as the traditional territories of diverse groups of First Nations, Inuit, and Metis peoples. Northern Explorers honours these lands and give our thanks and respect to Indigenous people who have lived on it and cared for it since time immemorial.
EXPLORE CANADA FIND ADVENTURESA 35-minute drive east of Edmonton takes you to the rolling hills, aspen forests, rich wetlands, pretty lakes and starry skies of Elk Island National Park. It is an ‘island’ of natural wonders and a...
Alberta is home to some of the most famous national parks in the world. These parks offer opportunities for sightseeing, hiking, paddling, camping and connecting with nature. In addition, you’ll find...
Salt Spring Island is a special place. It is a treasure trove of outdoor adventures, rich community and cultural experiences, and charming local spots for eating, shopping and playing. Beautiful...
Kootenay Lake from Queens Bay Tucked between the Selkirk and Purcell Mountain ranges, Kootenay Lake in British Columbia is ideal for relaxing and nature-focused family spring break. From natural hot...
You don’t have to carry a tent dozens of kilometres into the backcountry to enjoy the great outdoors. Car camping, also called front-country camping, is fun, too! It can be more accessible, great for...
The Kaslo River Trail winds along the north and south shores of the Kaslo River, connected by two bright red, enchanting covered bridges, to make it a family-friendly 3.6 km loop. About halfway...
Waterton Lakes National Park is one of Alberta’s five national parks, located in the southwest corner of the province. It offers pristine lakes, sweeping mountain vistas, waterfalls, hiking trails...
The Piney Point Trail is in Beauvais Lake Provincial Park, southwest of Pincher Creek, Alberta. Beauvais Lake Provincial Park is accessible year-round and offers outdoor activities in the winter and...
As you turn the corner and the road starts to descend into the valley, the landscape around you completely transforms from rolling rangelands to otherworldly badlands. Dinosaur Provincial Park has...
The Juan de Fuca Marine Trail traverses the forests and beaches of Vancouver Island’s southwestern coast. Its trail takes you through massive cedar groves, across rocky coastal areas, sandy beaches...
Cypress Hills Provincial Park is a unique destination and Canada’s only ‘interprovincial park.’ It’s a collaboration between Alberta Parks, Saskatchewan Parks, and Parks Canada, with the Fort Walsh...
Storm watching in Ucluelet and Tofino on the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia allows you to experience the mysterious raw power of the Pacific Ocean and its raging storms. Imagine...